Experience the Exciting World of the "Look Back" Film Exhibition in Tokyo

The highly anticipated exhibition, "Look Back: The Emotions of Lines by Hiroshi Oshiyama," will open on January 16, 2026, at the Azabudai Hills Gallery in Tokyo. This exhibition celebrates the world of the theater anime adaptation of the acclaimed manga by Tsutsuki Fujimoto, serialized on the Shonen Jump+ platform. The exhibition is not just a showcase but also a deep dive into the emotional journey experienced by director Hiroshi Oshiyama and the talented animators involved in the production.

A Unique Exploration of Animation Art

In this exhibition, visitors will have the opportunity to see original sketches, behind-the-scenes notes, and a variety of concept art that bring to life the tremendous effort that went into creating the "Look Back" film. The scale and detail of the exhibition will allow attendees to truly appreciate the creative process that resulted in this captivating story.

To commemorate the opening, Hiroshi Oshiyama will conduct a special 3D drawing demonstration where he captures the iconic scene of 'Fujino racing through the rain' in real-time using a head-mounted display. This unique experience invites the audience to witness the intricate process of bringing animated characters to life and reflects Oshiyama's personal connection to the character. "When I draw, it not only brings joy but can also be challenging. There are times when I need to take a break, but I always feel the urge to return to it. I feel a strong connection to Fujino racing through the rain, and that’s why I chose to illustrate this scene," Oshiyama expressed during the drawing session.

Special Talks and AI in Animation

Following the drawing, a special talk event featured economist Yusuke Narita, who joined Oshiyama for a discussion about the evolution of drawing in the age of AI. They explored the challenges and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence in animation production. Oshiyama expressed hopes that AI could enhance creativity, allowing for both innovative ideas and maintaining the same quality in animation. "I initially didn’t foresee this rapid advancement in AI. However, its capabilities are increasing swiftly. As someone who tends to work in smaller teams, I believe AI could assist us in creating something unprecedented," he shared.

Voices from the Characters

The exhibition also features an audio guide narrated by the voices of the main characters Fujino and Kyomoto, played by Yumi Kawai and Mizuki Yoshida respectively. Their presence adds an exciting layer to the exhibition, allowing visitors to dive deeper into the world of the film. During the recording, Kawai expressed her delight at working alongside Yoshida and Oshiyama, stating, "As we voiced the scenes in sequence, I felt the characters naturally return to life within us." This sentiment reinforces the emotional connection that the exhibition aims to foster between the audience and the artwork.

Yoshida echoed these thoughts, highlighting how the exhibition represents a significant milestone for everyone involved in the project. "It's an honor to be part of something meaningful, and I hope visitors enjoy the audio guide we created together," she said.

A Taste of the Exhibition

In addition to the visual feast, several cafes at Azabudai Hills will offer limited-time menu items inspired by the world of "Look Back." Visitors can enjoy themed drinks and snacks while being immersed in the story's atmosphere. Each cafe item will be accompanied by unique coasters available to those who order, promising a delightful experience that pairs well with the exhibition's themes.

Event Details

The exhibition will run from January 16 to March 29, 2026, at the Azabudai Hills Gallery located at the heart of Tokyo. The gallery will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last admission at 5:30 p.m.).

For anyone in the area, this exhibition promises a rich exploration of animation artistry and storytelling, offering an unforgettable experience. Please visit the exhibition's official website for more details and ticket information.

Explore, enjoy, and be inspired by the wonderful world of "Look Back!"