In Japan, Makoto Shinkai has become a household name, thanks to the blockbuster success of his latest feature-length animation, Your Name. The film has already smashed records in China and is currently playing in countries around the world. Shinkai tells personal stories featuring sci-fi and fantasy elements. He is best known for his use of meticulously cut memory sequences and vivid background art to depict the internal drama of his characters.

Taketo Shinkai creates animated sketch comedies featuring rapid-fire dialogue, minimal movement, and a distinctive pop visual style. The many shorts he has produced for TV have found a large audience, particularly among teenagers.