my beautiful life zutto
my
beau
ti
ful
life
zu
tto
My life's always beautiful
tooku de asahi ga noboru
to
o
ku
de
a
sa
hi
ga
no
bo
ru
In the distance the sun rises
mukashi mita keshiki ni nita machikado
mu
ka
shi
mi
ta
ke
shi
ki
ni
ta
ma
chi
ka
do
The streets remind me of the old days
wasureteta jikan ni owaresugite
wa
su
re
te
ta
ji
ka
n
ni
o
wa
re
su
gi
te
The past I forgot comes back to me
souteigai no pinchi wa kamisama kara no pureze de
so
u
te
i
ga
i
no
pi
n
chi
wa
ka
mi
sa
ma
ka
ra
no
pu
re
ze
de
Unexpected problems are presents from the gods
yarusenai makerarenai nounai ga panikku
ya
ru
se
na
i
ma
ke
ra
re
na
i
no
u
na
i
ga
pa
ni
k
ku
I feel helpless, but I can't fail. I panic
sagashiteita basho wo miushinatte mo
sa
ga
shi
te
i
ta
ba
sho
wo
mi
u
shi
na
t
te
mo
Even if I lose sight of the place I sought
ano hi kawashita kotoba zahyou ni naru
a
no
hi
ka
wa
shi
ta
ko
to
ba
za
hyo
u
ni
na
ru
Your words will serve as coordinates
it's a u-turn
it's
a
u
-turn
It's a U-turn
mirai he no furaito wa
mi
ra
i
he
no
fu
ra
i
to
wa
The flight to the future
chikakute kibou no puran wo
chi
ka
ku
te
ki
bo
u
no
pu
ra
n
wo
Take a close, hopeful plan
hora ne sora ni egaku yume wo katachi ni shite
ho
ra
ne
so
ra
ni
e
ga
ku
yu
me
wo
ka
ta
chi
ni
shi
te
And draw it on the sky, giving shape to my dreams
itsuka kitto jibun ni shika dekinai
i
tsu
ka
ki
tto
ji
bu
n
ni
shi
ka
de
ki
na
i
One day I'll manage to become the hero
monogatari no shujinkou enjikitta egao
mo
no
ga
ta
ri
no
shu
ji
n
ko
u
e
n
ji
ki
t
ta
e
ga
o
with a confident smile that only I can pull off
zettai daijoubu ne
ze
tta
i
da
i
jo
u
bu
ne
Everything's gonna be fine
my beautiful life
my
beau
ti
ful
life
My beautiful life
for me
for
me
For me
"It's kinda different from my drawings.
From:Nogame Musashi[mailto:nogame@fighter.com]
To:Chazawa Shinsuke
Subject:The character designs
Dear Chazawa,
Nogame
It's kinda different from my drawings.
It's kinda lacking the cute.
I'm kinda not okay with them.
It's kinda lacking the cute.
I'm kinda not okay with them.
Nogame."
That's an email from the author.
The editor just received it.
"Kinda" kinda doesn't tell us anything.
And I really liked these designs.
I did too!
Not to mention the editor gave us the go-ahead.
Sounds like he didn't get the author's approval beforehand.
I wanted to use these designs.
But now that the author's vetoed them, they have to be redone.
Either that, or we need to convince the author that we should stick with what we have.
Of course...
The keyframe animators have already started work up to episode 4.
Will all that be—
Abort the mission.
The hell? Why?!
But the enemy's in our crosshairs!
Just back off!
No way!
An attack from the rear?!
It's a retake rocket!
We're going down!
Going down?! Wait, have we been screwed since the beginning?!
Flip the Table
I guess the way you cleaned up the lines made them look too mature.
Maybe they should be a bit softer and girlier.
I see you!
Yeah... That might be it.
Eyes a bit bigger, a bit lower,
and their faces a bit more round... Could you do that?
Of course.
I'll ask the editor to start checking with the author more regularly.
Thank you very much.
And so that means we have to halt almost all work.
What do you mean, halt?
We stop doing every cut with the characters in them.
Come on, Miyamori! We just started to gain momentum, and now you're slamming on the brakes?
Then tell me: what should we do?
We should stop.
Exactly.
Talk about being inflexible. Grats, newbie PM.
Why not let them continue and make the ADs fix it?
That would be too much for the ADs to handle.
If you stop them now, all keyframe work would need to be done in 3 weeks.
You going the Boing-Boing route on us?
We can't do anything without the author's approval.
This biz isn't always about following every rule to a tee.
And we have new production assistants.
If we teach them to cut corners from the get-go, they'll make a habit—
Yeah, sure. Whatever you say, oh mighty PM.
I'm getting some fresh air.
Which route should we take?
Just follow me and you'll be right as rain.
First, load the storyboards to the Xerox—
We're doing things the proper way.
Okay.
Hey!
Are you really stopping us?
I'm sorry...
I've already started layout AD work on episode 2.
Sorry! I'll get them fixed ASAP.
It's not your fault, Iguchi-san.
Storyboard work was going so well too.
So is this going to end up like Boing-Boing Paradise?
No! Anything but that!
Oh, right.
That wasn't because of an issue with the original's author.
That was because you delayed storyboards and all those checks.
Which backed up the whole schedule, right?
That's pretty much it, but I'd rather you not remind me!
Sorry! I have this habit of always trying to confirm the facts!
Here's the author's feedback.
"Cute and childish aren't the same.
Redraw, please.
Nogame."
Anything else?
No, that's it.
Okay, I got it.
I'll try adjusting the proportions.
Another response from the author.
"It's getting worse and worse.
Does she actually think these drawings are good?
Can we really rely on her as character designer?
Nogame."
He's basically saying we should replace her, right?
We can't just read any of that to Iguchi-san.
What should we do?
I'll call the editor and ask how exactly we should fix it.
Funny thing is, the author's told you all you need to know. Figure out the rest yourself!
Isn't that your job?
The instructions in his responses are just too vague.
Do we have to spoon-feed you every little thing?
Sorry for being a nuisance, but we need the author's—
Not a chance!
Funny thing is, he has a deadline coming up!
But—
He hung up?
Funny thing is, I don't get this guy.
Funny thing is, now you're talking like he does.
I'm sorry...
I can't seem to figure out how I'm supposed to draw them.
No, this is our fault.
Sorry for all this...
If only we could meet with the author...
We'll have to cope by ourselves for now.
Let's start from square one. Reconsider everything.
Got it.
I'll try to figure out what exactly the author is so particular about
and make my designs match the originals better.
Which path's the cutest?
This way, maybe.
Who are you?
I am the author!
I have a bonus quiz for you!
Which one of these is cute?
Um...
Hm, let's see...
This one!
No, this!
Both wrong!
Oh no, not again!
Miyamori, what's happening with the character designs?
We still haven't got the author's approval.
For reals?! We've only got three months until airtime!
We're getting further and further behind schedule.
Will everything be okay?
No, not at all!
But it's up to us in production to make things all better!
Wow!
Would you be able to fix this situation, Takanashi-san?
He wouldn't.
Really?
So sorry!
3rd Girls' Fighter Wing
Oi-chan?
Are you looking for Iguchi-san?
Yeah.
I think she's out there.
Iguchi-san!
Are you okay?
Sorry, I was just spacing out.
How did you know I was here?
Oh, Emacchi told you?
Yes.
Sorry for putting all of this on you, Iguchi-san.
Nah. I'm the one stalling everything.
I have no idea how I'm supposed to fix them up.
But I'll figure it out!
Ogasawara-san recommended me, after all.
This is my big chance after doing keyframes for six years.
Not to mention I really got to like Aria, Catherine, and all the characters.
Um... I...
It's my first project being PM, so I'm sorry if I screw up!
I'll do my-ow best.
Me-ow too.
MiG-23ML Flogger
Kfir C2
JA37 Viggen
F-4D Phantom
F-1
E-2A Hawkeye
MC-130E Combat Talon
F-22 Raptor
F-35A Lightning
B-1B Lancer
3rd Girls' Fighter Wing Concept Art
Name Type Note
Midway pillar Setting A giant pillar footed on the Midway island. Its foot is geometrically weird
Base runway Setting Cathy's rescue
Chofu base - Total Setting
Chofu base - Hangar Setting
Chofu base - Runway Setting Aria's training
Chofu base - Command room Setting Cathy joins the 3rd Wing. There's a wired phone.
Chofu base - Aria and Cathy's room Setting
Chofu base - Shower room Setting
Chofu base - In front of the hangar
Didn't we stop work?
Chofu base - In front of the hangar
We did.
But you don't need the characters for the backgrounds and the CG, do you?
You're right!
The studio is like a living creature.
Always something going on.
So we've got to do what we can now.
It's bringing back all those memories of how you panicked when you were running your first episode.
That was because you hid the mess about the keyframes!
I wasn't hiding that.
I just happened to not tell anyone they weren't getting done.
And then I was reborn from my ashes like a phoenix!
You almost made Endou-san quit doing the episode.
And Idepon Miyamori saved me!
You're welcome.
Idepon? What does that mean?
A great divine who far transcended humankind!
So that's why Takanashi-san stands no chance against Miyamori-senpai!
That totally makes sense!
No, it doesn't!
I agree. It doesn't.
After the CG stuff, we'll meet with the background artists.
Some props and pasting materials are done too, so please check them.
You're pretty fired up despite this mess we're in.
No, because of it!
You did the storyboards faster than I'd thought possible.
Work finally started and everyone was starting to get in the mood!
I want to maintain that momentum!
"Faster than I'd thought possible" is a compliment, right?
You're not making fun of me?
Of course not!
I work better with positive reinforcement, so please don't be too harsh with me!
I know.
I also know what happens when you're complimented too much.
Tee-hee.
I think we managed to make them move like the real thing.
What do you think?
I'd like them to look a bit less stiff.
I want to emphasize the visuals in 3rd Wing.
Sure, but it'll look less realistic.
We've gotta find the right balance.
Let's exaggerate things a bit to really make it look cool.
Make them move faster, more wildly.
Think of them as the machine versions of their pilots.
Aria's F-1 should be cool and strong.
Catherine's Phantom would be cheerful and energetic.
How's that sound?
I got it. We'll redo the motions with that in mind.
The planes are the leads of this show.
The planes are the leads?
These stratocumulus form around 2,000 meters in altitude.
Altitude?
The elevation determines the types of clouds that form.
I see!
These clouds tell tales about how the characters feel.
It's sort of sad in a way.
Yeah.
They wanted to fly towards the future, but it still feels so hollow.
That's what I wanted to express here.
In episode 1, I can imagine these clouds under the returning formation of the 3rd Wing.
These clouds are too low for that.
Then we'll just lower the planes.
Of course it won't be a realistic altitude,
but let's use some artistic license to carry the mood.
I'd love a scene with nothing but the skyline and some music.
Without any characters or planes?
Yeah. Art is basically the lead of this show.
I get it.
I'll draw you skies and clouds worthy of being the leads.
You're telling everyone the same thing, aren't you?
Aren't there a few too many leads?
Have I been telling everyone that?
Yeah. You said it to the filming staff and the color designer too.
You're like a playboy trying to juggle all the girls.
No, I'm not. And I meant what I said.
And I've personally never juggled any number of ladies, by the way.
You know, 3rd Wing isn't all about the flashy stuff.
I want every scene to embody specific emotions.
Such as?
For example...
When it's winter,
you're having trouble with the storyboards, and you go out stargazing and see Orion.
When you're on the verge of tears because your show is getting bashed,
and on the way home you glance up and see the red sunset.
The indirect lighting cast in your living room, which feels way too big after your wife left for good.
Then as they reject your—
I get it.
They're all pretty sad.
I see you!
I can't see it.
Sorry... I know it's been over ten days now.
It's fine.
I just keep returning to my previous drawings. I'm not even sure what works anymore.
I'm really sorry.
Everything's stalled without the character designs.
No, it's our fault.
One, two, three, four...
five, six, seven, eight...
Eins, zwei, drei, vier...
fünf, sechs, sieben, acht...
Yī, èr, sān, sì...
Wǔ, liù, qī, bā...
Sorry.
What kind of exercise is that?
It's good for the shoulders. It's called the Angel.
Angel?
It's supposed to make you feel like an angel afterwards.
It used to be kind of popular.
One, two, three, four...
Five, six, seven, eight...
Uno, due, tre, quattro...
Cinque, sei, sette, otto...
I really do feel a bit lighter.
Um...
Is there anything I can do to help?
I'm fine. Sorry if I made you worry.
I like them.
I really like how full of life your designs are.
I'm really looking forward to making them move.
I'm looking forward to it too.
No matter how many shows you do,
it never gets old seeing your drawings come to life.
And they'll be my character designs this time.
I wanna see Aria and her friends talk and laugh as soon as possible.
I really do!
You have not been providing sufficient support.
This is the first time Iguchi-san has handled character designs.
Despite this, you have simply thrown everything at her, abandoning her to her struggle.
The author wouldn't tell us how to fix the designs, though.
Even if the author has been less than forthcoming,
it speaks of laziness on your part to leave everything to Iguchi-san.
It makes little sense.
You assigned her that job, so it is your responsibility in turn to consult with and advise her.
You're right.
We're so sorry.
Try to facilitate an environment in which she can concentrate on her work without feeling burdened.
And...
Please support her to the very end.
Okay.
Then let's go invite her for lunch to take her mind off work!
And maybe go for a pint—
That is not your job.
You must determine the author's true wishes and help Iguchi-san figure out how to adjust the designs.
Okay.
Do not assume that alcohol is a valid form of stress relief for everyone.
There are people who do not find it relaxing at all.
Okay.
Miyamori-san, would you mind coming with me?
You too, Yasuhara-san.
So where are we headed?
My oasis.
Your oasis?
There's no way that'd look good on me!
I do not know exactly what you are imagining, but you are definitely off the mark.
This is your oasis?
That is correct.
Play ball!
Strike!
Is she human?
This could be an anime!
Gothloli Koshien
Gothloli Koshien!
Gothloli Koshien
Koshien
Stadium
Hamburger lunch
with rice
Hamburger lunch
with rice
Cattle Dive
Did that help relieve some stress?
Yes! I saw something as rare as a living unicorn!
Did you use to play softball, Ogasawara-san?
No, I used to be in the Go club.
Go?
Black and white. True to your gothloli ima—
I am quite aware people call me that.
Have you always dressed this way?
I used to wear T-shirts and jeans.
You did?
I'd like to see that.
When'd you start dressing like this?
Characters
The sisters (color concept)
1: Ash
2: Or
3: Verde
4: Brou
5: Rouge (MC)
6: Rosa
7: Blanc
Me? Character designs?
The show's based on a video game.
Director
Wanna try?
Sure! I'd love to do it!
It's not exactly bad, but...
Director
Try another style.
Okay.
It's still not bad...
Director
It's a bit different from what I had in mind.
Try another style again.
Okay...
Director
This is too bland.
Too pointy!
It feels unfinished.
These eyes won't do.
That's not it.
Director
On the other hand...
I thought I could stand my ground even if I was cornered,
even if everything was against me....
Director
The first one was the best.
Right?
Asagaya
That was when I realized that I cannot simply accept everything with an obedient nod.
Asagaya
Every artist has a sensitive and vulnerable heart.
Yet we are constantly criticized, rejected, and faced with demands.
So in order to protect myself,
I donned this armor.
So that's your battle gear?
It definitely seems more powerful than a T-shirt.
But why—
Because the heroine I was drawing then dressed as such.
It's made me stronger.
It's reassuring to know that even you've had trouble with stuff before.
Everyone does.
There is no profession that is free from challenges.
The question is only how well you can turn humiliation into progression.
"It's kinda different from my drawings.
It's kinda lacking the cute."
I thought about it, and I guess we might've been too focused on making it moe.
You're correct.
Girlishness might not be the key here.
I believe the author's conception of cute is not based on that.
I see! Now I get why Aria is cute and all!
Okay! Let's try that next!
Okay!
Good morn—
Morning!
Iguchi-san... Are you cosplaying as Aria from episode 3?
I looked for a halberd too, but couldn't find one.
Is that really what you should be focusing on?
Yeah! I'll arm myself too and storm into battle!
There's more to come, too.
This is Aria...
It's closer to the original art, yet it's also easy to animate.
The earlier designs were nice, but this really captures the spirit of the original.
It's like you added some cool to the cute!
Aria's willpower shines through!
If this doesn't work, I'll go and convince the author myself.
Thank you!
Home run.
I'll ask for an appointment from the editor.
I'll get an answer today, whatever it takes.
Great!
Um, funny thing is, I'm kinda in the middle of—
This is urgent!
I'm busy, so some other time.
Funny thing is, I know where he is.
Judging from the sound...
It's near the publisher's headquarters!
Nice shot!
Wait, what? How did you know?!
F-Funny thing is, I'm work—
Keyframes have been stalled for a month now!
Get feedback from the author right away!
Funny thing.
Email from the author!
"It's gotten much better.
This will do.
Nogame."
Aria: Spring Summer Winter Fall Rough Draft
Don't sleep, Luna
ne
ru
na
lu
na
ne
ru
na
lu
na
The stars shine down on us
fu
ri
so
gu
ho
shi
ta
chi
no
hi
ka
ri
ga
as if from beyond the waves of time
i
ma
ko
no
to
ki
no
mo
no
ja
na
i
yo
u
ni
It's gonna take just a little more
ki
mi
no
mo
to
he
to
do
ku
ma
de
ni
until I make it to your side, so wait for me
mo
u
su
ko
shi
ka
ru
no
ma
t
te
I've got a present for you behind my back
se
na
ka
ni
ka
ku
shi
ta
p
re
se
n
t
no
ha
ko
I want to surprise you and see you open it
fu
ra
tto
mi
se
ta
i
hi
ra
i
te
ho
shi
i
I want to see your smile
so
no
e
ga
o
ga
mi
ta
i
Don't sleep, Luna
ne
ru
na
lu
na
ne
ru
na
lu
na
I ran through the night
ma
yo
na
ka
wo
ka
ke
nu
ke
te
ku
Don't sleep, Luna
ne
ru
na
lu
na
ne
ru
na
lu
na
Slip down on the curve of the moon
mi
ka
zu
ki
su
be
ri
o
ri
te
Don't sleep, Luna
ne
ru
na
lu
na
ne
ru
na
lu
na
I can't hold back my feelings
o
sa
e
ki
re
na
i
ko
no
o
mo
i
Don't sleep, Luna
ne
ru
na
lu
na
ne
ru
na
lu
na
Just let the light reflect bright
so
no
ma
ki
ra
ri
ha
n
sha
sa
se
te
My glittering platinum jet
ka
ga
ya
ku
no
pla
ti
num
jet
Musani, Andou speaking.
Ah, Hirao-san! Your circle had a booth at the summer festival, right?
I got a volume myself!
Where am I?
Next time on Shirobako: "Where am I?"