A renowned creator of thought-provoking anime films and series, known for exploring complex themes and emotions through visually stunning storytelling. His works often blend mecha action with psychological drama, gaining a cult following worldwide.
Hideaki Anno is a renowned Japanese animator, filmmaker, and actor, best known for creating the iconic Evangelion franchise, which has left an indelible mark on the anime television industry and Japanese popular culture. His distinct postmodernist approach and in-depth exploration of characters' thoughts and emotions have made him a trailblazer in the world of animation.
Anno was born on May 22, 1960, in Ube, Yamaguchi, Japan, to Fumiko and Takuya Anno. Growing up, he showed a keen interest in artwork and filmmaking, creating short films for Japanese Cultural Festivals during his school days. He attended Wak Kindergarten, Unoshima Municipal Elementary School, Fujiyama Municipal Junior High School, and Yamaguchi Prefectural Ube High School.
Anno's professional journey began while studying at Osaka University of Arts, where he worked as an animator for the anime series The Super Dimension Fortress Macross (1982-1983). During this time, he collaborated with fellow students on the DAICON III and IV Opening Animations, and also created self-financed films. However, his lack of attention to his studies led to his expulsion from the university.
Anno's big break came when he worked on Hayao Miyazaki's 1984 film Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, which earned him recognition in the industry. This led to opportunities to work on various projects, including Return of Ultraman (1983), Gunbuster (1988), and Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water (1990), which won the Animage Anime Grand Prix award in 1990.
Anno's most celebrated creation, Neon Genesis Evangelion, premiered in 1995 and revolutionized the anime industry. The series' success led to the creation of several spin-offs, including films, video games, and merchandise. The franchise has won numerous awards, including the Animage Anime Grand Prix award in 1995 and 1996, and The End of Evangelion in 1997.
Anno's subsequent directorial works include Kare Kano (1998), Love & Pop (1998), Shiki-Jitsu (2000), Cutie Honey (2004), Re: Cutie Honey (2004), Rebuild of Evangelion (2007-2021), and Shin Godzilla (2016). The latter film marked the beginning of the Shin trilogy of tokusatsu franchise reboots, followed by Shin Ultraman (2022) and Shin Kamen Rider (2023).
Hideaki Anno's contributions to the world of anime and Japanese popular culture are immeasurable. His unique style and approach have inspired countless animators, filmmakers, and writers. As a pioneer in the industry, Anno continues to push boundaries and explore new ideas, leaving an indelible mark on the world of animation.
85 Years Old
A renowned animator, director, and screenwriter behind beloved films like Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro, known for imaginative storytelling and vibrant animation.
74 Years Old
A visionary filmmaker behind thought-provoking anime classics, exploring complex themes and philosophical ideas through visually stunning storytelling. 42
72 Years Old
A visionary creator of manga and anime, known for his groundbreaking sci-fi epic "Akira", which redefined the genre and inspired countless adaptations and imitators.
Born in 1910
A visionary filmmaker who crafted visually stunning and emotionally resonant movies that explored humanity, often blending Japanese culture with Western influences. His works continue to inspire generations of filmmakers and artists.
