Tomodachi

Osamu Tezuka has been an icon in the animation industry worldwide for decades, creating beloved franchises like Astro Boy, Phoenix, Black Jack, Metropolis, and many more. When Tezuka passed away from stomach cancer in 1989, he left behind many unfinished works and concepts, including the film series “Legend of the Forest”. The series, which was meant to include 4 parts, was only partly completed before Tezuka’s death. However, his son, Makoto Tezuka, has finished the series 25 years later, using storyboards and notes left behind by Tezuka in order to complete his father’s vision. That film, which recently screened at the Hiroshima International Animation Film Festival this past August, has finally been announced for release overseas! “Legend of the Forest” will debut in the United States at its premiere in New York City, along with other Tezuka films. The film, which follows the story of a forest threatened by human expansion, is one of the Tezuka’s last works, and is a must-watch for animation fans worldwide.