Toei Animation has announced the launch of Eterna Animation, a new creative label focused on original in-house productions. Unveiled in the lead-up to the studio's 70th anniversary in 2026, the initiative signals a bold step forward in Toei's commitment to creative innovation and global expansion.

The new brand arrives on the heels of international acclaim for Amedama (Magic Candies), a short film based on a picture book by Heena Baek, which was nominated for Best Animated Short Film at the 97th Academy Awards. The recognition reinforced Toei Animation's reputation for storytelling and artistic excellence—momentum the company intends to carry forward through Eterna.

A Creative Frontier for Emerging Talent
With Eterna Animation, Toei Animation aims to establish a dedicated brand for the ongoing production of original works rooted in creativity and artistic ambition. The brand is founded on five core values—Originality, Exclusivity, Artistry, Quality, and Decency—and aspires to deliver animation that resonates deeply and endures in the hearts of viewers. Alongside its focus on expressive storytelling, the initiative will support the growth of emerging talent and foster new forms of creative collaboration across generations.

Debut Project: Foxing: Kitsuné-tsuki
The first project under the Eterna Animation banner is Foxing: Kitsuné-tsuki, a short film directed by Takeru Shinozuka in his commercial directorial debut. Scheduled for completion in 2026, the film explores themes of isolation, fantasy, and self-liberation within a contemporary setting.

A graduate of Tokyo Zokei University, Shinozuka joined Toei Animation and gained recognition for his all-in-one production style—handling direction, storyboarding, and character design. Foxing reflects his poetic and visually driven approach to character psychology.

The film is produced by Yoshihide Moriyama, whose past works span titles such as Elemon, Tokyo 7th Sisters, and Ring ni Kakero. Moriyama's role involves cultivating the project in line with Eterna's artistic ethos while positioning it for international resonance.

Global Premiere at Annecy 2025
Foxing: Kitsuné-tsuki will make its global debut at the 2025 Annecy International Animation Film Festival and Market, as part of the MIFA Talent Panel. Director Shinozuka and producer Moriyama will present early production materials—including visual boards and character concepts—and discuss the creative goals behind both the film and the Eterna brand.

With Eterna Animation, Toei Animation is positioning itself at the forefront of original animation for a global audience—committed to crafting stories that not only showcase artistic vision but also define the studio's legacy for years to come.

Eterna Animation official site: https://www.toei-anim.co.jp/eterna_animation/
Eterna Animation official X: @eterna_anim

Source: PR Times, Oricon News