So here’s the result of what I’ve been working on for quite a while now, with a long break inbetween, though. A recent tweet by washi gave me the decisive nudge to finish what I had begun. I’ve always been very interested in this meta aspect of anime and animation in general, since art is a cumulative process and you can always see the legacy of the past in every animation you watch. And with a meta perspective on the industry, many things suddenly begin to make sense. Very little in this sphere happens by chance, you just have to look a bit closer to find the connection. It was a lot of work to research all the relations especially between the older studios in anime’s early days, but it certainly was worth the effort since I had several ‘aha experiences’ while delving into this subject matter.
The above chart shows the origins of most anime studios, but keep in mind that I didn’t bother to distinguish between investments in subsidiaries (like I.G=>XEBEC) and producers/directors/etc. going independent (like Satelight=>GoHands). There might be some mistakes as I haven’t carefully looked over it a second time, so tell me if you notice anything. I’m aware that some minor studios aren’t on this chart, and I included some important production companies (such as Aniplex and ADK) which aren’t anime studios, but they play a crucial role in understanding the structure of this industry. If you have any questions, feel free to comment below.
I can’t see Asia-Do.
Great chart!
One thing I noticed was no link between Sunrise and A1, though there is no direct link, producer Mikihiro IWATA(岩田 幹宏) left Sunrise and I believe helped get the studio on its feet. He is 副本部長 for A1 Pictures.
Though that’s probably not within the scope of v1 of your chart, perhaps for the v2 instead?
Also the creation of “Bridge” which was formed roughly in 07-08 off Studio 6 of Sunrise – http://www.animenewsnetwork.co.uk/encyclopedia/company.php?id=8719
@Anon
Gonna add it with the next version.
@Kraker2k
That connection between Sunrise and A-1 sure is interesting, but I think it’s better to keep to the most important relations. Otherwise the chart would be overflowing with lines very soon 🙂
In the case of Bridge, I’m gonna incorporate it into the next version.
This may seem dumb, but what do the colors mean? You should add a key in your next version. 🙂
@kevo
Actually, I don’t have a good concept for colors yet. For now, I just used colors to indicate which studios belong together in one sense or another (such as AIC) and to highlight the major players of today’s industry. If anybody has an idea for a better use of colors, let me know.
Perhaps you can use colour to denote the decade in which the studios were established?
Where A.P.P.P. ?
Whoa whoa wait PA Works was born from Bee Train?!?! IT ALL ADDS UP NOW!!!
This is absolutely amazing work, btw.
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Just a comment to say that it’s A.C.G.T not A.C.T.G.