Genkosha has announced the upcoming release of “Unfinished: Yasuomi Umetsu Animation Works,” an art book celebrating the career of Yasuomi Umetsu, a master animator often hailed as a “maverick” for his one-of-a-kind artistic style. This highly anticipated collection for fans is set to be published on August 25, 2025, offering a comprehensive look into Umetsu’s influential body of work.
✨新刊情報✨
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稀代のアニメーター＆監督・梅津泰臣の
原画やコンテ、イラストなど厳選収録📖
＼新刊📕8/25 発売
『Unfinished 梅津泰臣アニメーションワークス』『それでも町は廻っている』や『文豪ストレイドッグス』、『刀剣乱舞… pic.twitter.com/hE3SVPHyMc
— 株式会社 玄光社 (@genkosha) July 14, 2025
目次
Who is Yasuomi Umetsu, the Unparalleled Animator?
Yasuomi Umetsu is a creator who has garnered acclaim both in Japan and internationally as an animator and animation director. He is particularly renowned for his original video animation (OVA) projects, such as A Kite (1998) and Mezzo Forte (2000), for which he also handled the original story and character designs.
His signature style—defined by intense, stylish violence, exceptional draftsmanship, and a captivating directorial sense—has built a unique world that remains unmatched. His talent has consistently shocked and inspired countless anime fans and fellow creators.
A Curated Collection of Rare Materials, from Directed Works to Openings/Endings
“Unfinished: Yasuomi Umetsu Animation Works” will feature a carefully selected collection of key animation drawings, storyboards, and promotional illustrations from the numerous projects Umetsu has contributed to.
The book will, of course, cover his signature works like A Kite and Mezzo Forte, but will also include materials from his other directorial projects, such as Galilei Donna and Wizard Barristers: Benmashi Cecil.
Furthermore, it will contain rare production materials from his visually striking opening and ending animations for series like And Yet the Town Moves, Bungo Stray Dogs, and Touken Ranbu: Hanamaru. To provide a full overview of his diverse career, the collection also includes his character design work for DYNAMIC CHORD and original character concepts for Kokkoku.
Featuring Artwork from His Latest Film, ‘Virgin Punk’
One of the major highlights of this art book is the inclusion of illustrations from Umetsu’s latest original animation series, Virgin Punk, which was released on June 27, 2025. As his first directorial work in nearly a decade, produced in collaboration with the animation studio Shaft, the project has already generated significant buzz among anime fans. The publication of this book while the excitement is still fresh is welcome news for his followers.
Includes an In-Depth Interview Revealing His Creative Secrets
Beyond the beautiful illustrations, the book will also feature an exclusive interview and commentary from Yasuomi Umetsu himself. This section promises to delve into the creation of each work, offering insights into his production secrets and creative philosophy—a must-read for fans and creators alike.
The book is poised to be the definitive volume for deeply understanding the trajectory and essence of Yasuomi Umetsu, not only as a master animator but also as a director with a distinct vision.
