Kasagi Labo Champions Fan-Powered Path for Original Anime

Singapore-based anime venture studio Kasagi Labo used its panel at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival to showcase an alternative to the traditional production committee system. Through its AnimeOshi platform and an "Open Pitch" approach, the company is gathering fan feedback, tracking interest, and sharing production materials publicly to help finance original anime while giving creators more ownership.

One key project is a theatrical feature adaptation of the viral short Living in a World Without Magic (known in Japan as Mahōseka), created single-handedly by artist Akiwashi and viewed millions of times. Veteran screenwriter Michiko Yokote, whose credits include Cowboy Bebop and Shirobako, is writing the screenplay, with fans able to follow milestones via the AnimeOshi Film Club where more than 15,000 supporters have already signed on.

The studio also announced a new project connected to the Ninja Scroll franchise, with Madhouse and MAPPA co-founder Masao Maruyama serving as special creative advisor. Maruyama produced the influential 1993 film. Another highlight is Casshan 2045, a reimagining of Tatsunoko Production's classic 1973 series featuring original character design concepts by Final Fantasy artist Yoshitaka Amano.

Additional development news includes Ars Gratia, an original sci-fi feature directed and designed by Ilya Kuvshinov in partnership with Good Smile Company and Liden Films, plus updates on GATE 2 and the series Special Kid Factory. Chief Production Officer Tony Izumi framed the efforts as a way to let studios and creators retain more control and upside on original work.