The Demise of Hoshiai no Sora and the State of Anime Production
It’s time to talk about the so-called “final” episode of Hoshiai no Sora. However, this episode cannot be discussed in isolation. It is essential to consider how it, along with its creator, was treated, and what this treatment reveals about the current state of anime production in 2019. Those who choose to ignore this reality do so at their own risk. Unless you are content with idol shows, isekai LN adaptations, and a never-ending stream of generic moe, you may soon realize that the medium you love is already perishing.
The Plight of Hoshiai no Sora
For those unlikely to be aware of what transpired with Hoshiai no Sora, I recommend turning to Akane Kazuki’s Twitter feed. In a nutshell, the production committee deeply wronged him and his series. Sadly, this is not an isolated incident – such committees consistently oppress creative individuals. By exerting their unwavering control over the production process, they stifle groundbreaking and ambitious content, suffocating it before it even has a chance to flourish. They drain profits from the industry, ensuring that even successful series generate minimal income for studios, while subjecting animators to exploitative working conditions for meager compensation.
To put it plainly, the production committee model is a repugnant parasitic entity that is slowly but surely killing the very essence of anime. Change or demise – those are the only foreseeable paths for the medium.
The Unfortunate Circumstances
To explore specifics, it is best to refer to Akane-sensei’s candid Twitter account. What truly matters is that Hoshiai no Sora was originally slated for 24 episodes and had been in production for over two years under that assumption. However, a few months ago, the production committee unjustly axed the second cour, even before the show had aired. It was too late to rework the narrative without it becoming completely disjointed. Thus, Akane made the decision to complete the first cour of the series in its original form. This explains the ending we witnessed today, as well as the multitude of unresolved plot threads exhibited throughout the one-cour series.
Ironically, what sparked further controversy was Akane’s decision to break one of the anime industry’s cardinal rules; he revealed the truth about what had befallen Hoshiai no Sora. With unwavering honesty, he placed the blame squarely on those responsible for this awful decision. Predictably, industry insiders and their supporters launched a counter-attack, potentially rendering Akane-sensei’s future career prospects precarious. Yet, it is doubtful that he cares. Akane has never been one to rush his creative endeavors, only producing shows that truly ignite his passion. I suspect he has little desire to remain part of an industry that currently exists in such a state and will likely continue to deteriorate in the future.
The Legacy of Hoshiai no Sora
So, where does this leave us? We are left with an exceptional anime tragically cut short and a final episode that doesn’t feel like a conclusion at all. The truth is, creators like Akane Kazuki and shows like Hoshiai no Sora are precisely what the production committee model aims to eradicate (could anyone imagine Noein getting a greenlight in today’s landscape?). Such series are passion-driven projects, exploring non-traditional ideas that are deeply significant to the writer and director, with no intention of catering to commercial demands. In this universe, anime that does not serve idol agencies, music publishers, or light novel factories – or at the very least lacks a successful manga to cross-promote – is deemed unworthy of existence. The production committees diligently ensure that such anime remains extinct.
Despite its premature end, the final episode of Hoshiai no Sora left a lasting impact. The thrilling match between TouMaki and the Itsue twins captivated viewers, beginning just as one would expect, with the champions reigning supreme. However, Maki and Touma approached the game with nothing to lose, exploiting their inexperience as an advantage. The duo’s adaptability and the twins’ unfamiliarity with formidable resistance turned the tables. Forcing the champions to even slap each other on the court could be considered a moral victory.
Notably, the montage of the match’s final act accompanied by the ending song was a brilliant touch. Seeing Touma play with a smile on his face brought immense satisfaction, highlighting how sports and friendship can serve as invaluable outlets for children facing overwhelming stress in their lives. These boys, alongside Kanako, became each other’s support system – a surrogate family when their own kin let them down. Such camaraderie is often vital for teenagers, and without it, many would struggle to endure.
While watching the credits roll prematurely is disconcerting in any show, the air of foreboding in Hoshiai no Sora was unmatched. This is where the seeds for the second season were skillfully planted for Maki and Touma. Touma’s mother, indeed, contemplates divorce, showcasing her disdain for Touma, emphasizing her despicable character. Additionally, Maki reaches his breaking point concerning his father and resolves to take matters into his own hands once and for all. Ending on such a note is certainly bold, but Akane understands the importance of not glossing over the issues at hand. He created the series he intended to make and provided a transparent explanation to the audience regarding its conclusion.
A Tribute to Passion and Meaningful Exploration
I hold profound respect for any creator who dedicates themselves to producing a show that results from years of contemplation, driven by ideas that hold immense importance to them. Hoshiai no Sora, with its incisive exploration of acceptance and resilience, defies conventions and dives into the struggles adolescent boys face − a refreshing departure from the medium’s tendency to depict them as simpletons or mere backdrop. When considering that a series like this was produced at all, it becomes clear just how dire the situation is. Unfortunately, once this becomes an acceptable state of affairs, it signifies the beginning of the end for me as an anime fan. For what purpose would continued engagement serve?
Akane-sensei has expressed the intent to share the story he and his team crafted for the second season in some format. Yet, it is difficult to envision how this could be realized. Even with crowdfunding, raising sufficient funds for a full cour seems implausible. Furthermore, given Akane’s recent revelations, it is highly likely that he and Hoshiai have become anathema to the industry. No studio will risk antagonizing those who were exposed by Akane by producing another season. Perhaps a manga adaptation will materialize; who knows? I earnestly hope that Akane finds a way to continue sharing the story, both as a semblance of justice and because I am genuinely curious to discover his plans for Maki, Touma, and the rest of the cast. Ultimately, as marvelous as Hoshiai no Sora was, it stands as a snapshot of the deeply discouraging state of a medium that is unquestionably in decline.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the premature conclusion of Hoshiai no Sora serves as a poignant microcosm of the myriad challenges faced by anime production today. The suffocating grip of production committees and their relentless pursuit of commercial success stifles creativity and suppresses ambitious projects. Meanwhile, the unique and thought-provoking series that dare to deviate from generic formulas are left to wither away. It is a critical juncture for the medium, where change or demise hang precariously in the balance. As fans, we must demand better and support series that push the boundaries, inspiring a renaissance within the industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will there be a second season of Hoshiai no Sora?
While Akane-sensei has expressed a desire to continue the story, it seems unlikely that a second season will materialize. The challenges and controversies surrounding the first season have created significant obstacles, making it difficult for future production to occur.