Takushi Koide's 'Goodbye, Lara' Project Brings Back 1990s Hand-Drawn Animation
Having worked for many years at studios like Studio Trigger and previously Gainax, animator Takushi Koide brings back the unforgettable hand-drawn animation style of the 1990s with his latest project Goodbye, Lara. In an interview with Anime News Network, Koide stated that the project is the product of a journey that took about five years: "Just establishing the initial concept took about two years, and then the process of pitching to studios dragged on."
The most striking feature of Goodbye, Lara is its thick, distinct lines reminiscent of 90s OVAs and classic works like Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt or Kill la Kill, and its use of completely digital-tool-free, hand-drawn cel animation. Koide stated that he deliberately chose this method because he wanted to take a stand against today's overly smooth digital animation trend. The lengthy development period also highlights how much the industry's demand for hand-made animation has decreased.
Takushi Koide is a name known for his work on productions like Space Dandy, Kill la Kill, and Gurren Lagann throughout his career. Known especially for wild camera angles and energetic action scenes, Koide has shifted toward a simpler but impactful narrative in Goodbye, Lara. Although the project's plot has not yet been fully revealed, being Koide's personal project allows him to freely use the visual language he desires. This is a great boon especially for fans who miss the aesthetics of hand-drawn animation from the late 90s and early 2000s.
Although no exact release date or studio announcement has been made yet regarding the project's future, Koide's presentations at conventions and exciting concept art have increased interest in the project. If Goodbye, Lara is completed, it could serve as an example that showcases the power of independent animation projects and potentially rekindle the industry's passion for hand-made animation. In the coming months, we can expect to see new visuals and perhaps a trailer.
In summary, Takushi Koide's passion project is not only a tribute to the past but also a manifesto reminding us how valuable hand-drawn art still is in today's animation world. It's a production that anyone who loves the spirit of the 90s should have on their radar.
