Hideaki Anno, the legendary creator of Neon Genesis Evangelion, made a controversial statement in early 2026 that promises to heat up debates in the entertainment world. In an interview with Forbes Japan, the director and screenwriter openly criticized the wave of anime productions made to please the international audience. Anno argues that the main focus should always be on Japanese sensibility, and it is up to the foreign viewer to adapt to this cultural context. With a prediction of lasting impact, his statement comes precisely when successes like Demon Slayer and Chainsaw Man earn billions globally, raising questions about the authenticity of the industry.
Anno’s vision, therefore, goes against a growing trend. While giants like Disney+ and major studios seek to expand their reach with content more palatable to the West, the master behind Evangelion remains firm. He highlights the influence of his mentor, Hayao Miyazaki, who always created works faithful to his personal vision, without worrying excessively about public acceptance. Thus, Anno believes that compromising nuances of language and culture could cause anime to lose its unique identity, a risk he is not willing to take.
The Legacy of Miyazaki and Cultural Identity
The philosophy defended by Hideaki Anno does not come out of nowhere. It is, in fact, a direct reflection of learning from Hayao Miyazaki, a pioneer who never shaped his art to please external audiences. Therefore, Anno views the commercial globalization of anime with concern. For him, the essence of the medium is intrinsically linked to Japan, and diluting it is a serious mistake. However, it is undeniable that the international market has become a crucial financial pillar for the industry, which creates a complex dilemma for creators.
But does this traditionalist view still make sense in 2026? Anime is already a consolidated mass phenomenon in Brazil and worldwide, with fans who avidly consume Japanese culture. Despite this, Anno’s statement serves as an important reminder about cultural preservation. The debate he reignited promises to influence not only online discussions but also creative decisions within studios in the coming years. Thus, the beginning of 2026 is marked by this deep reflection on the future of one of Japan’s greatest cultural exports.
