Lu over the wall Director Masaaki Yuasa Reveals a New Anime Film 'Kimi to, Nami ni Noretara'

At the Tokyo International Film Festival held on Sunday, an announcement was made by anime director Masaaki Yuasa. Coming early next summer in Japan, a new film by the director will be released.

Titled as “Kimi to, Nami ni Noretara” with the tentative English title of “Riding a Wave with You,” details on the production have already been confirmed. The film will be distributed by TOHO which provided the official synopsis of the film. It is as follows:

Upon entering university, Hinako moves to a coastal town. She loves surfing, and when she’s on the waves she’s fearless, but still feels uncertain about her future. When a fire wreaks havoc in the town, Hinako encounters young firefighter Minato. As they surf and spend more time together, Hinako feels drawn to someone like Minato who devotes himself to helping other people. Hinako also holds a special place in Minato’s heart.

Given that the film is featuring a simple romantic comedy between a young woman who loves surfing and being in the water and a firefighter; it has been noted by Yuasa that there would be exciting scenes featuring the contrasting elements of water and fire.

There is no voice cast confirmed for the film but details on the main characters have been relayed. First, there is the 21-year-old firefighter Minato Hinageshi. He is described as a trusted team member with a strong sense of righteousness. Physically dexterous and seemingly able to take on anything, but always put in extra effort. Then there is Hinako Mukaimizu, a 19 years old University student who loves surfing and is considerably skilled at it. She comes across as bright and carefree but has insecurities about her own future.

When discussing the film, Yuasa noted, “I did not make Lu over the wall as a love story, so I decided to make this a love story.” The two main characters of the new film start going out together, but have lots of secrets. Minato wishes her life could go a little more smoothly. In addition, it is said that “certain element” of the new film is related to the story of “Lu over the wall.”

Another comment Yuasa made on his latest work was:

Whether it’s in work or in life, we often feel like we’re “riding a wave.” The phrase “good conditions” ties into that, but waves don’t bend to our desires. We pick our waves and try to ride it. Flow with it. We don’t know if that wave is going to take us where we want to go until we’re done riding it. You can think all you want, but you won’t know until you try. In this tough world, it’s about choosing the best wave you can. I wanted to take a character who’s pure and let them surf.

Currently, Yuasa has finished all the storyboards and is working on the animation now. However, he acknowledged that the production is behind schedule. “Kimi to, Nami ni Noretara” is Yuasa’s latest work since “The Night is Short Walk On, Girl”, “Lu over the wall”, and “DEVILMAN crybaby.”

Source: AnimeNewsNetwork