Tokyo-based Toei Animation Co., Ltd. revealed on 5 June 2025 that it has founded ETERNA Animation, a creator-first brand dedicated to original works, ahead of the studio’s 70th anniversary in 2026. The announcement follows the short film Magic Candies securing a nomination for Best Animated Short at the 97th Academy Awards, underscoring Toei’s growing global prestige.

Building on that momentum, the brand’s inaugural project is the short film FOXING: Kitsune-tsuki, the directorial debut of 1994-born artist Takeru Shinozuka. Scheduled for completion and release in 2026, the film explores loneliness, illusion and self-liberation through poetic visuals; veteran producer Yoshihide Moriyama oversees the production.

ETERNA Animation promises to “keep creating free, new animation that stays in the heart,” grounding its output in five core values—Originality, Exclusivity, Artistry, Quality and Decency—while nurturing the next generation of talent.

Foxing will be introduced worldwide at the MIFA Talent Panel during the Annecy International Animation Film Festival & Market in June 2025, where Shinozuka and Moriyama will discuss the brand’s vision and Toei’s future original strategy.

FAQ

What is ETERNA Animation?
A new Toei Animation brand focused on artist-driven original works for domestic and global audiences.

Why create it now?
Toei is leveraging recent critical acclaim, including Magic Candies’ Oscar nomination, to expand its original repertoire ahead of its 70th anniversary.

What is the first project?
FOXING: Kitsune-tsuki, a short film by debut director Takeru Shinozuka, set for a 2026 release.

Will ETERNA works screen internationally?
Yes. Foxing will premiere materials at Annecy 2025 and future titles are planned with global distribution in mind.

Source : ORICON NEWS