#Japan #Tokyo #Gyorai Eizou #Riding the Subway #Annecy Festival

Riding the Subway: A Celebration at Annecy Animation Festival 2025

In an exciting announcement for anime fans, the short animation "Riding the Subway" produced by Gyorai Eizou, headquartered in Sumida, Tokyo, has been officially selected for screening at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival 2025. This festival, known as one of the largest animation film festivals worldwide, will take place from June 10 to 13, 2025, in Annecy, France. As part of the festival, "Riding the Subway" will be featured in the "Indie Animation Showcase" segment of the MIFA (International Animation Film Market).

About the Film

"Riding the Subway" is recognized for its innovative approach to promote public transportation in Kyoto, featuring beloved characters such as Uzumasa Moe, Matsuga Saki, and Ono Misa. The film was initially released in 2017 and has since gained significant acclaim for its creativity and engagement with the audience. The characters, designed to encourage people to utilize the Kyoto Municipal Subway and city buses, are a testament to the city's dedication to public transport.

The animation was made possible by a crowdfunding campaign that gathered over 10 million yen, showcasing the support and enthusiasm from the community. Following its public release, the film has also been made available on YouTube, allowing viewers worldwide to experience the charm of Kyoto’s public transport in animated form.

The Annecy Event

The Annecy International Animation Film Festival is a monumental event in the animation industry, bringing together animators, producers, and audiences from around the globe. The festival provides an excellent platform for showcasing new and groundbreaking works, and the inclusion of "Riding the Subway" marks a significant opportunity to introduce and promote Japanese indie animation to international markets.

The showcase will feature screening through monitors, as well as panel discussions aimed at highlighting the unique talents of Japanese independent animators. This interactive approach will facilitate connections among professionals and promote potential collaborations in animation development.

The event is organized by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry and the nonprofit organization VIPO (Visual Industry Promotion Organization), which plays a vital role in supporting the Japanese animation industry at large. The collaboration with studio ALBLE further strengthens this effort, ensuring a high-quality presentation at the festival.

Gyorai Eizou: The Creative Force Behind the Animation

Founded in 2012 in Kyoto, Gyorai Eizou has grown into a significant player in the anime scene, focusing on short films, including commercials and music videos. After relocating to Tokyo, their offices are now situated in Sumida and Akihabara. Gyorai Eizou's dynamic work environment has allowed for impactful projects, such as the original animation CM for "Riding the Subway," and the successful crowdfunding initiative for the short film.

The company's vested interest in furthering the "Riding the Subway" project was showcased through its ten-year anniversary event in 2023, highlighting the importance of this beloved animation in their portfolio.

The dedicated team, led by managing director Ryota Sano, continuously strives to enhance the visibility of indie animations from Japan, making them accessible to global audiences. The company's official website lists additional resources and provides a platform for interviews and media inquiries, inviting all interested parties to engage with this exciting project.

Conclusion

As we look towards the future, the screening of "Riding the Subway" at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival embodies the spirit of innovation within the anime industry. It not only highlights a remarkable piece of creative storytelling but also represents a bridge between Japanese animation and international audiences, paving the way for further collaboration and cultural exchange in the animation field.