Kiyotaka Oshiyama's "Look Back," a Japanese animated film adaptation of Tatsuki Fujimoto's acclaimed manga, premiered in Beijing on Oct. 25 to widespread acclaim from Chinese audiences.

Director Kiyotaka Oshiyama speaks to the audience via video link at the China premiere of his animated film "Look Back" in Beijing, Oct. 25, 2024. [Photo courtesy of Today Pictures]

The heart-wrenching story follows Fujino, a popular and outgoing student known for creating humorous comics in the class newspaper. Her world transforms when her teacher pairs her with Kyomoto, a talented but reclusive artist. This unexpected partnership sparks competition in Fujino, and as she wrestles with feelings of jealousy, she discovers they share a deep passion for drawing. The two form a complicated relationship through their dedication to manga creation.

"Look Back," a faithful adaptation by newcomer Studio Durian and industry veteran Kiyotaka Oshiyama, resonates deeply with its source material by exploring the emotional journey of artistic pursuit and the profound connections forged through creative expression. Since its release, the directorial debut has moved audiences to tears and inspired many to pursue their artistic dreams.

At the Beijing premiere, Oshiyama connected with viewers via video link, expressing admiration for Fujimoto's distinctive style while acknowledging the challenges of adapting a four-panel comic into a feature film.

The director said scenes of Fujino and Kyomoto drawing held special significance, reflecting his own background as a key animator where drawing became his most intimate craft.

"Look Back" was released across China on Oct. 26 through the National Alliance of Arthouse Cinemas (NAAC), earning nearly 20 million yuan ($2.8 million) on its opening day. The NAAC, established in 2016, is managed by the China Film Archive and works with theater chains to support arthouse film distribution. The film garnered an impressive 8.5/10 rating on Douban, China's leading review aggregation platform.

A Chinese poster for "Look Back." [Image courtesy of China Film Group]

Fujimoto, known for creating the hit manga series "Chainsaw Man," shared his enthusiasm for the film's reception: "The film adaptation of 'Look Back' initially was released in fewer than 100 cinemas in Japan, but now is to be shown in 3,500 cinemas across China. I must thank the enthusiastic fans in China! This miraculous work involves director Kiyotaka Oshiyama, whom I greatly admire, and musician Haruka Nakamura. I hope fans in China can also appreciate the talents of these two. Thank you very much!"

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