Crunchyroll has revealed the initial speaker list for its inaugural Anime Future Forum, an invitation-only industry gathering slated for October 7 in New York. The event will feature prominent figures such as filmmakers Guillermo del Toro and James Gunn, alongside key executives from major Japanese anime and manga powerhouses.

The distinguished lineup of speakers includes Manabu Otsuka, President and CEO of MAPPA; Taichi Ueda, Executive Officer at Toho; Yuta Momiyama, Editor-in-Chief overseeing the digital operations of Shonen Jump+ for Shueisha; and Atsuhiro Iwakami, President of Sony Music Entertainment Japan and Chairman of Aniplex. These individuals represent some of the most influential voices within the global anime landscape. Adding diverse perspectives, Sony Pictures Animation President Kristine Belson will moderate a discussion with Bob Persichetti and Justin K. Thompson, directors of the forthcoming Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse. Olympic medalist Amber Glenn, artist Big Sean, and digital content creator Jordan Howlett will also contribute to the forum, offering insights from a fan's viewpoint.

The one-day summit, themed “Designing for Anime’s Future,” will explore critical areas like fan engagement, technological innovation, narrative development, and intellectual property safeguarding. Discussions will encompass topics such as multi-platform storytelling across anime, gaming, and live-action, the evolving theatrical experience, the future trajectory of manga, and the significant role of digital influencers in expanding the anime fan base. Sony Group President and CEO Hiroki Totoki will deliver the opening address, while Sony Pictures Entertainment Chairman and CEO Ravi Ahuja will also speak. Crunchyroll President Rahul Purini will conclude the forum with a summary and announcements, underscoring Sony's commitment to anime as a vital growth sector, especially after Crunchyroll surpassed 21 million paid subscribers globally by March.

This forum represents a pivotal step in strengthening collaborations between Japanese creators and international industry partners, fostering innovation, and driving the anime industry towards a vibrant and expansive future. The shared passion for storytelling and creative advancement promises to generate new opportunities and elevate the global impact of anime.