A presentation at the Laugh & Peace Entertainment School Okinawa gave a glimpse into Russia’s animation industry, which has interesting parallels with Japan’s industry, and is also quite unique.

On the panel was Dmitry Birichevsky, Minister Counselor of the Russian Embassy in Japan, who started by asking attendees if they enjoy watching animated shows on TV with their families. When everyone raised their hands, he said it is much the same in Russia, but it was not always that way. Birichevsky explained that when he was a young boy, Soviet animated shows were aimed at children and featured only animal characters.

To show how the industry has evolved, subtitle translator Natalia Yurkanova gave a presentation on its history. She explained that the animation studio Soyuzmultfilm was founded in 1936 and grew so quickly it was soon known as “the Disney of Russia.” Yurkanova said that storylines became more complex and human characters became more common. She noted that one of the most popular series recently is based on Russia’s “Three Heroes” legend. Birichevsky added that this is a story that parents have told to their children for generations, so the animated show is something that families can all watch together.

After viewing some clips, fellow panelist, comedian Sakura Inagakisaki was surprised by how much the style of animation varies from one show to another. Yurkanova explained that under policies introduced by Russian President Vladimir Putin to increase film production, the number of animation studios has risen to 70. Comedian and animation fan Seitaro Mukai, who was also on the panel, was surprised to learn that the industry in Russia has grown so much so quickly. Yurkanova said that the demand for animation is so great, anyone can send it storylines for shows, and their ideas could be produced.

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