ABEMA Supports Independent Anime: 'PRISMation Film Fes. 2026' Event is Coming
ABEMA, one of Japan's leading streaming platforms, is taking its support for the independent anime scene a step further with its 'Project PRISMation' initiative. The project's first physical event, 'PRISMation Film Fes. 2026', will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at United Cinemas Toyosu in Tokyo. This special festival will bring together over 20 independent anime works, including those by renowned directors Makoto Shinkai, Tomoki Misato, and Yūsuke Ishida, for cinema enthusiasts. [cite: Natalie, 15]
'Project PRISMation' is an initiative launched by ABEMA in December 2025 with the goal of collaborating with next-generation anime creators to produce entirely new and original anime works. The project aims to support creators who release animated works individually or in small teams, help create stories that resonate with audiences, and encourage the creativity of participants. The project name, a combination of the words 'PRISM' and 'Animation', symbolizes different talents coming together to shine brightly.
One of the most striking aspects of the festival is that it brings together both established and rising stars of the independent anime world. Globally recognized director Makoto Shinkai's early independent short film She and Her Cat (1999) will be screened. Although Shinkai has a large worldwide fan base with his box office hits like Your Name., Weathering with You, and Suzume, he began his career with independent productions. Additionally, Tomoki Misato's award-winning work My Little Goat (2018), who gained significant acclaim with the adorable stop-motion series Pui Pui Molcar, will also be presented to the audience. [cite: Natalie, 6, 8, 15, 23] Director Yūsuke Ishida's Fumiko's Confession
