Brain's Base

Brain's Base Co., Ltd. (Japanese: 有限会社ブレインズ・ベース, Hepburn: Yūgen-gaisha Bureinzu Bēsu) is a Japanese animation studio founded in July 1996 by Juukou Ozawa, a former animator at TMS Entertainment (previously known as Tokyo Movie Shinsha).^[1][2] Headquartered in Mitaka, Tokyo, the studio specializes in the production of anime television series, often adapting light novels, manga, and original works, and has established a reputation for high-quality storytelling and fluid animation in genres such as action, mystery, and supernatural drama.^[3][4] Among its most notable productions are the 1930s-inspired action series Baccano! (2007), which features interconnected narratives and nonlinear storytelling, and the urban fantasy Durarara!! (2010–2016), both of which garnered international acclaim for their complex plots and ensemble casts.^[5] The studio also handles long-running series like Natsume's Book of Friends (2008–present), a heartfelt supernatural tale about yokai and human connections that has spanned multiple seasons.^[5] In addition to full production, Brain's Base frequently contributes key animation, in-between animation, and second key animation to other studios' projects, supporting over 100 anime titles since its inception.^[5] Remaining active into the 2020s, Brain's Base has diversified into contemporary adaptations such as In/Spectre (2020–2023), blending mystery and folklore, and To Your Eternity Season 1 (2021), an epic fantasy exploring themes of immortality and growth.^[5] Recent and upcoming works include Golden Kamuy Season 4 (2023), Maou no Ore ga Dorei Elf wo Yome ni shita ndaga, Dou Aiseyo ka? (2024), and the 2025 project Dekin no Mogura, reflecting the studio's ongoing commitment to innovative anime production.^[6]

History

Founding

Brain's Base was established in July 1996 by Jūkō Ozawa, a former producer at Tokyo Movie Shinsha (now known as TMS Entertainment), with the aim of creating an independent animation studio dedicated to high-quality anime production.^[1] The studio was initially formed as a yūgen gaisha, or limited company, under the Japanese name Bureinzu Bēsu (有限会社ブレインズ・ベース). Headquartered in Shimorenjaku, Mitaka City, Tokyo, Japan, the company set up its base to handle core aspects of anime creation in-house from the outset. This foundational setup positioned Brain's Base as a self-sufficient entity in the competitive anime industry, allowing it to begin contributing to projects soon after inception, with its first independent production emerging in 1998.^[5]

Key milestones and developments

Brain's Base entered the anime production landscape in 1998 with its first major involvement in original video animations, including Shin Getter Robo Armageddon, marking the studio's initial foray into full-scale animation projects following its establishment two years prior.^[7] This early work helped establish the studio's capabilities in mecha and action genres, setting the foundation for broader production roles. During the 2000s, Brain's Base experienced significant expansion in television series output, transitioning from primarily support roles like in-between animation to lead production on acclaimed projects. Hits such as Baccano! in 2007 and Durarara!! in 2010 elevated the studio's reputation for handling complex ensemble storytelling and dynamic action sequences, contributing to a surge in high-profile commissions.^[5] This period of growth saw the studio diversify into supernatural and mystery adaptations, solidifying its position in the industry. In 2013, a notable development occurred with the formation of Shuka, a spin-off studio established by former Brain's Base producer Yumi Satou and other ex-staff members from the studio's third production department, which handled select projects like subsequent seasons of Durarara!!.^[8] This separation represented a strategic shift, allowing Brain's Base to refocus while some talent branched out, though it also posed challenges through key staff departures during a transitional phase. The studio navigated occasional lean periods by taking on subcontracting work, such as in-between animation for other productions, to maintain operations without major disruptions like closures or mergers.^[5] Recent activities underscore ongoing resilience, with lead production on To Your Eternity from 2021 to 2023, An Archdemon's Dilemma: How to Love Your Elf Bride in 2024, Dekin no Mogura (2025), and the upcoming adaptation Yowayowa Sensei in 2026.^[6] As of 2025, Brain's Base continues to operate as Brain's Base Co., Ltd., maintaining a focus on fantasy and supernatural genres that align with its historical strengths in atmospheric and character-driven narratives.

Productions

Television series

Brain's Base has produced over 25 television anime series since the late 1990s, establishing itself as a key player in the industry with a focus on supernatural, fantasy, and action genres.^[5] The studio often serves as the primary animation producer, collaborating with distributors like Aniplex for high-profile projects, and many of its series air on networks such as TV Tokyo and MBS.^[5] These productions typically feature episodic formats ranging from 10 to 50 episodes per season, with several flagship series spanning multiple seasons to build long-term narratives.^[4] The studio's television output began with children's action series in the early 2000s, transitioning to more mature supernatural and ensemble-driven stories by the late 2000s.^[5] Notable examples include the multi-season Natsume's Book of Friends, which aired on TV Tokyo from 2008 to 2017 and totals 77 episodes across six seasons, exploring themes of yokai and human connections in a fantasy-drama framework.^[9] Similarly, Baccano! (2007–2008, 16 episodes including specials on WOWOW) and its stylistic successor Durarara!! (2010–2016, 60 episodes across three main seasons on MBS/TBS) highlight Brain's Base's expertise in non-linear action-mystery narratives, both distributed by Aniplex.^[10][11] Other significant series include Spice and Wolf (2008, 12 episodes on Chiba TV) and its sequel (2009, 12 episodes), a fantasy-romance adaptation emphasizing economic themes, co-produced with Aniplex.^[12] In recent years, Brain's Base has continued with fantasy epics like To Your Eternity (2021–2023, 40 episodes total across two seasons on NHK Educational TV, with Season 2 delayed from 2022 due to production issues), focusing on immortality and emotional growth.^[13] The studio's genre predominance is evident in over 70% of its TV works involving supernatural or fantasy elements, often with international streaming via platforms like Crunchyroll.^[5] This catalog represents Brain's Base's core television contributions, with multi-season commitments like Natsume's Book of Friends (totaling 77 episodes) underscoring the studio's role in sustaining popular franchises.^[5] Broadcasts often feature international adaptations through Aniplex of America and streaming services, enhancing global reach for series like Durarara!! and To Your Eternity.^[5]

Original video animations

Brain's Base has produced approximately 15 original video animations (OVAs) between 1998 and 2014, often functioning as sequels to established franchises, side stories supplementing television series, or standalone projects in genres such as mecha, supernatural drama, and romantic comedy. These OVAs were typically released direct-to-video, with some bundled alongside manga volumes or limited-edition DVDs to extend narratives or explore additional character arcs without the constraints of broadcast schedules. The studio's OVA output emphasizes concise episode structures, ranging from single installments to multi-episode arcs, and highlights its versatility in adapting light novels, manga, and original concepts during its formative and mid-career phases.^[5] An early highlight is Change!! Getter Robo: Sekai Saigo no Hi (also known as Getter Robo: Armageddon), a 13-episode mecha OVA released from August 1998 to May 1999, serving as a direct sequel to the classic Getter Robo series and focusing on themes of apocalypse and heroism with pilots Ryoma Nagare and his team battling dinosaur-like enemies. Produced in collaboration with Studio OX for certain episodes, it marked Brain's Base's debut in the OVA market and was licensed internationally by Discotek Media for North American release.^[44][45] Other notable mecha OVAs include Mazinkaiser (2001–2002, 7 episodes), which expands on the Mazinger Z universe through intense robot battles and character-driven conflicts, and New Getter Robo (2004, 13 episodes), a high-stakes reboot emphasizing evolution and sacrifice in the Getter franchise. These projects showcased Brain's Base's proficiency in dynamic action sequences and were distributed direct-to-video in Japan, with later international availability through companies like Tokyo Pop for subtitles and dubs.^[46][47] In the supernatural genre, Brain's Base contributed OVAs like Demon Prince Enma (2006, 4 episodes), a darker reimagining of the classic yokai-hunting tale with episodic demon confrontations, and Kure-nai (2008, 2 episodes), which delves into themes of protection and family amid action-oriented plots. Toward the later years, the studio produced supplemental OVAs tied to its television successes, such as Natsume Yūjin-Chō: Nyanko-sensei to Hajimete no Otsukai (2013, 1 episode) and Natsume Yūjin-Chō: Itsuka Yuki no Hi ni (2014, 1 episode), short side stories featuring the spirit-companion duo bundled with manga releases to enrich the ongoing lore. Similarly, My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU OVA (2013, 1 episode) offers a lighthearted extension of the high school service club's antics, released alongside the first season's home video collection. These later OVAs, often single-episode formats, were licensed by Sentai Filmworks for English-speaking markets, underscoring Brain's Base's role in bridging TV narratives with direct-to-consumer content.^[48][49][50]

Films

Brain's Base has contributed to several theatrical anime films, primarily taking on animation production roles in projects featuring supernatural and fantastical elements that align with the studio's strengths in atmospheric storytelling and character-driven narratives. Established in 1996, the studio's early foray into feature-length cinema emphasized adaptations of literary works, while later efforts included standalone shorts and compilation films. These productions often involved collaborations with entities like Aniplex and TV Tokyo, allowing Brain's Base to leverage its in-house capabilities for detailed animation sequences involving ethereal or otherworldly phenomena.^[5][4] The studio's debut theatrical project was the 2000 feature film Kaze wo Mita Shounen (The Boy Who Saw the Wind), an adaptation of C.W. Nicol's novel directed by Kazuki Ōmori. In this 97-minute fantasy adventure, Brain's Base handled full animation production, depicting a young boy's encounters with wind spirits in a rural Japanese setting during World War II. The film received a limited theatrical release in Japan on July 22, 2000, and later saw international screenings, praised for its poignant anti-war themes and fluid depiction of natural and supernatural forces. Home video releases followed in Japan via VHS and DVD, contributing to its cult following among anime enthusiasts.^[51][52] A notable highlight in Brain's Base's filmography is the 2011 short film Hotarubi no Mori e (To the Forest of Firefly Lights), directed by Takahiro Omori and based on Yuki Midorikawa's manga. This 45-minute theatrical release, produced in collaboration with Aniplex and Hakusensha, explores a forbidden friendship between a human girl and a forest spirit, showcasing the studio's expertise in delicate, emotionally resonant animation for supernatural encounters. It premiered in Japanese theaters on September 17, 2011, and achieved critical acclaim, including the Jury Prize at the 2011 Scotland Loves Animation festival in Europe. The film also screened at international events like the New York Asian Film Festival and saw strong home video sales in Japan through Blu-ray and DVD formats.^[53][54] More recently, Brain's Base co-produced the 2022 compilation films Re:cycle of the Penguindrum Part 1: Your Existence and Part 2: The Fate You Choose, directed by Kunihiko Ikuhara as a re-edited theatrical presentation of the 2011 TV series Mawaru Penguindrum. Partnering with Lapin Track for additional animation, these 124-minute and 101-minute features revisit themes of destiny, survival, and surreal penguin-guided quests in a modern Tokyo backdrop infused with supernatural symbolism. Released in Japan on June 24 and July 22, 2022, respectively, the films received positive reception for their enhanced visuals and narrative cohesion, with screenings at events like the Tokyo Anime Film Festival. They were later distributed internationally via streaming platforms and home video, extending the original series' impact.^[55][56] Brain's Base also produced the 2017 film Dance with Devils: Fortuna, a 90-minute supernatural musical fantasy directed by Keiichiro Saito, continuing the TV series' demon-human romance themes. Released June 3, 2017, in Japan, it featured original animation sequences and was distributed by Avex Pictures.^[57] In 2024, the studio contributed to two Golden Kamuy compilation films: Golden Kamuy: Sapporo Beer Kōjō-hen (released January 19, 2024, 60 minutes) and Golden Kamuy: Tsurumi Tokushirō no Shukugan (released March 22, 2024, 60 minutes), re-editing arcs from the TV series with new scenes, focusing on action and historical drama in Hokkaido. These were produced in collaboration with GENCO and distributed by TOHO.^[58] Overall, Brain's Base's film output includes several major theatrical contributions, focusing on concise, high-quality animation that excels in portraying fluid, immersive supernatural sequences, often in co-production arrangements to amplify thematic depth without expansive budgets.^[5]

Organization and staff

Leadership

Jūkō Ozawa founded Brain's Base in July 1996 and has served as its president and representative director since inception, overseeing all operational and strategic aspects of the studio.^[60] Prior to establishing Brain's Base, Ozawa worked as a former animator at Tokyo Movie Shinsha (now TMS Entertainment), contributing to anime production. Under Ozawa's leadership, the studio has emphasized genre diversification, particularly into fantasy and supernatural themes, fostering the development of acclaimed long-running series that highlight innovative storytelling and visual styles.^[5] As of 2025, the leadership structure remains unchanged, with Ozawa continuing to guide the studio's direction amid ongoing projects, and no succession plans or major transitions have been announced.^[60]

Organization

Brain's Base is organized into several departments, including Production, Drawing, Digital, CG/Shooting, and General Affairs.^[60]

Notable production personnel

Brain's Base has been associated with several prominent producers who played pivotal roles in its most acclaimed projects. Yumi Satō served as an animation producer from 1997 to 2014, overseeing key adaptations such as Baccano! (2007), Durarara!! (2010), and Natsume's Book of Friends (2008), where she emphasized character-driven storytelling and high production values.^[61] After departing Brain's Base, Satō founded Studio Shuka in 2013, taking several former colleagues with her to continue similar narrative-focused works. Other notable producers include Tatsuyo Kobayashi, who contributed to early productions like Nurse Witch Komugi-chan (2002) through 2013, and Midori Tokiwa, active from 2006 to 2013 on series such as Spice and Wolf (2008).^[5] Among directors, Takahiro Ōmori stands out as a cornerstone figure, helming Brain's Base's flagship titles including Baccano!, Durarara!!, and multiple seasons of Natsume's Book of Friends, where his direction highlighted intricate ensemble dynamics and subtle emotional depth.^[62] Ōmori's tenure, beginning around 2007, helped define the studio's reputation for adapting light novels and manga with fluid pacing and visual flair. Other directors like Kō Matsuo, who led Kure-nai (2008), and Hiroyuki Nishimori, involved in Daigunder (2002), contributed to the studio's diverse output in action and fantasy genres.^[10] Character designers and animation staff further elevated Brain's Base's visual style, particularly in action sequences. Takahiro Kishida provided character designs for Baccano! and Durarara!!, crafting distinctive, expressive figures that supported the chaotic, interconnected narratives.^[63] Akira Takata served as character designer for Natsume's Book of Friends and animation director across multiple episodes of Baccano!, Durarara!!, and Natsume seasons, contributing to the studio's smooth, evocative yokai depictions and dynamic fights.^[64] Key animators such as Atsushi Aono, who handled animation direction for episodes in Baccano!! (eps 2, 9, 12, 15-16)^[10], Durarara!! (eps 2, 12, 17, 23)^[65], and Natsume's Book of Friends (eps 2, 9, 13)^[9], were instrumental in delivering the fluid action and expressive movements that became a hallmark. Additional notable personnel include Akitsugu Hisagi, an animation director for Baccano! (eps 3, 11)^[10] and Durarara!! (eps 3, 10, 15, 21)^[65], known for precise choreography in ensemble scenes; Norio Matsumoto, key animator on Durarara!! openings and episodes; and Masahito Yamashita, who animated key sequences in Natsume's Book of Friends (eps 4, 10). Haruo Okuno contributed animation direction to Natsume (ep 5) and key animation for Baccano! (ep 13), enhancing atmospheric tension. Tatsuo Yamada directed animation for Natsume openings and episodes 1 and 11, focusing on serene yet poignant visuals. Eiko Matsuno provided key animation for Natsume (eps 3, 6, 12), emphasizing emotional character interactions. Hideyuki Motohashi handled animation direction for Natsume (eps 3, 6), while Kyoko Kametani did so for ep 7, both aiding the series' gentle supernatural tone. These staff members often advanced internally at Brain's Base or transitioned to affiliates like Shuka, bolstering the studio's legacy in adaptive animation.^[9]