A new fan book, Panda! Go Panda! Fanbook, releases today, offering a deep dive into the history and creation of the beloved 1972 children’s film. The book shines a spotlight on the legendary collaboration between anime icons Isao Takahata and Hayao Miyazaki before the two co-founded Studio Ghibli.
Spanning 128 pages, the fan book includes story summaries, stills, and behind-the-scenes content, such as image boards, character designs, and promotional materials. A highlight of the book is a special gallery of new illustrations contributed by notable artists and animators. Featured contributors include:
- Masashi Ando (character designer for Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away)
- Toshiyuki Inoue (character designer for Magnetic Rose)
- Takayuki Goto (chief animation director for Ghost in the Shell: Stand-Alone Complex)
- Yoshiharu Sato (character designer for My Neighbor Totoro)
- Hiroshi Shimizu (chief animation director for MEGALOBOX)
- Kazuhide Tomonaga (chief director for Lupin the 3rd Part IV)
The fan book is now available for purchase on the Genkosha website.
Originally released as Panda Kopanda in 1972, the film debuted at the height of Japan’s panda craze. This year marks its 50th anniversary. Described by GKIDS, the North American licensor, Panda! Go Panda! follows the adventures of Mimiko, a young girl who is left to care for a baby panda, Panny, and his father, Papanda. Together, they navigate the joys and challenges of their unusual family life.
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