Tomohiko Itō, the director behind the phenomenon Sword Art Online, believes that Japanese anime is surpassing Hollywood in global appeal in 2026, especially after the writers’ strike and the effects of the pandemic. However, in a recent interview with Daily Shincho, he issued an important warning: focusing too much on pleasing international audiences can often lead to failure. His statement comes at a crucial time, as major Japanese companies, such as Toho, continue to acquire foreign distributors, consolidating anime’s global presence.
Itō argues that Hollywood productions seem to have lost momentum, while anime has effectively filled that void. Therefore, he sees the medium on the rise but argues that original creativity should not be sacrificed at the altar of “globalization.” For the Brazilian audience, which consumes anime massively, the debate is relevant because it touches on the authenticity of the works that arrive here. Thus, the director calls into question a common strategy in the entertainment industry.
Recognition Behind the Scenes
In addition to criticizing the excessive attempt to please everyone, Itō highlighted a positive point he observes abroad: the recognition of the technical team. He cited as an example director Haruo Sotozaki of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – the Movie: Infinity Castle, more recognized outside Japan. For the creator, preserving the history of who did what is vital to inspire new generations of animators, something the domestic industry could adopt with more emphasis. After all, knowing who is behind the biggest successes is a fan’s right.
Meanwhile, Itō’s next project, a film adaptation of the first book in the Kusnoki no Bannin series by Keigo Higashino, is scheduled for release in late January in Japanese theaters. His reflections, therefore, are not just theoretical but come from someone actively shaping the future of animation. In the end, the message is clear: the global success of anime comes from its unique essence, not from attempts to mold itself to external expectations. This lesson resonates in Brazil, where Japanese content has gained space precisely because it is different.
