Look Back could be nominated for the Oscars

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has released the list of feature films eligible to compete in the categories of Best Animated Feature, Best Documentary and Best International Film at the 97th Academy Awards. Among the 31 titles selected for the Best Animated Film category, four Japanese anime productions stand out, which have captured the attention of audiences and critics for their originality and emotional depth.

The Colors Within (Science SARU): This play follows Totsuko, a high school student who can see the "colors" of human emotions. Forming a band with Kimi and Rui, he discovers how music can bring them together and reveal their true inner colors. This film explores themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery with Science SARU's unique visual and narrative sensibility

Ghost Cat Anzu (Shin-Ei Animation, Miyu Productions): A heartwarming and magical story about Karin, an 11-year-old girl who is forced to live with Anzu, a ghost cat with a whimsical but endearing personality. Together, they face the challenges of loneliness and abandonment, forging a special bond in a rural Japanese environment.

The Imaginary (Studio Ponoc): Studio Ponoc presents this fantastic adventure about Rudger, an imaginary friend who must escape from the sinister Mr. Bunting, an imaginary hunter. With stunning aesthetics and an emotional narrative, the film raises questions about imagination, friendship, and memory.

Look Back (Studio Durian): An adaptation of Tatsuki Fujimoto's acclaimed manga, it chronicles the complex relationship between Fujino and Kyomoto, two young artists with opposing talents and aspirations. This intimate and thoughtful story about rivalry, creativity, and loss has resonated deeply with viewers.

The announcement of the eligible films does not imply that they will already be nominated for the Oscars. It is only the first step in the selection process. To advance, films must meet additional requirements, such as having had a commercial theatrical release and adhering to category-specific rules.

In the case of Best Animated Feature, members of the Academy's Animation Branch are the primary voters, though other members may participate if they meet certain viewing requirements. Of these 31 eligible films, only five will be officially nominated. With this selection, Japanese anime is positioned as a strong contender in the race for the most prestigious awards in cinema. The film community is eagerly awaiting the announcement of the final nominations next January.

Source: Official Site