Loner Life in Another World is set to premiere in October, but what makes it different from other isekai series? We spoke with series director Akio Kazumi and Pony Canyon producer Takanori Matsuoka about the series' unique appeal, misconceptions about what a “loner life” is, and why Shūichirō Umeda is perfect for the role of loner lead Haruka.
© Shoji Goji, OVERLAP/Lonely Life Production Committee
Your previous work includes CG-centric anime series. How was the transition from CG to 2D, and are there any skills you learned working in CG that you feel are useful for 2D animation?
Akio KAZUMI: I don't intentionally focus on any specific differences. The essential element is that whether the medium is hand-drawn, CG, or live-action, the core goal is the same: how to make the content interesting for the audience. The tools used to express the image are just different methods to achieve that goal.
There are so many isekai anime every season. What do you feel makes A Lonely Life in Another World different?
KAZUMI: We focus on the concept of “being lonely” in a unique way. “Loneliness” does not mean being detached from reality, but rather experiencing moments of loneliness even while being part of society. It reflects the idea that everyone has moments when they want to be alone.
The main character, Haruka-kun, solves problems using his own ingenuity rather than relying on a group. This is similar to the concept in the Analects of Confucius, “和而不同” (harmony without uniformity), which emphasizes the importance of maintaining individuality while still being part of a community. Haruka-kun embodies this principle.
We paid close attention to the dialogue and scene composition to reflect this theme, which can help distinguish it from other works in the same genre.
Takanori MATSUOKA: First and foremost, it's incredibly fun, easy to read, and has engaging characters!
In my opinion, what makes it different is that all the classmates are suddenly transported to another world and initially live together in harmony. However, as time goes by, their relationship becomes strained, they start working in separate groups, and various incidents occur. This dynamic feels quite realistic. Also, unlike many other isekai series, there is no clear final boss like a demon king to defeat right away. This lack of a definite end goal adds a unique touch to the story.
In the first trailer, we see what looks like a murder mystery after Haruka's class ends up in another world. Should audiences expect a mysterious angle to the film? What adventures will Haruka get into?
KAZUMI: Mystery is certainly an element of the series, but it's not the sole focus. Haruka-kun takes matters into his own hands, and while his classmates trust him, he never fully joins their group. Despite his intentions, he continues to help others and eventually gets involved in increasingly important adventures in the afterlife. The series will feature a mix of mystery and larger fantasy adventures as Haruka-kun explores this new world.
MATSUOKA: That's definitely something to look forward to! Despite the mystery element, Haruka's desire to live a comfortable, solitary life in the afterlife will push him into various situations. Along with the mystery, you can look forward to interactions with his classmates, exciting battles, and a variety of adventures. There's a lot to enjoy beyond the mystery aspect!
Please turn on the closed captions (CC) button for English subtitles.
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How was Shoji Goji-san involved in the production process?
KAZUMI: We received advice from Shoji Goji-san through the original work's editorial team.
MATSUOKA: Shoji Goji-san was involved in reviewing everything through supervising the original work, including the script, characters, art, and cast.
When it came time to cast Haruka, what kind of voice were you looking for in auditions?
KAZUMI: We were looking for someone who could effectively express both a cheerful, lively tone and a calm, composed demeanor. Umeda-san was a perfect fit for the role.
MATSUOKA: I felt that a voice that was too handsome or sweet would not suit the role. Since the series has both battle scenes and many comedic moments, we were looking for someone who could effectively express that range and handle both serious and comedic situations.
If you were living a “lonely life”, what would you do?
KAZUMI: Since I am a “lonely” person and have no family, I will probably spend a lot of time watching movies in the cinema. It is a fun hobby to do alone. If I have more time, I will probably travel by motorbike, exploring castles around the country. Also, I want to visit famous racetracks around the world to watch F1 and MotoGP races.
MATSUOKA: I don't mind “living alone” at all. I can go into any store by myself without any problems! As for activities, like Haruka, I want to try camping alone. I like to spend time carefully preparing ingredients and spices to cook something or simply relaxing while watching the campfire.
Loner Life in Another World will premiere in October and stream on HIDIVE when it airs in Japan. Anime Expo hosted its North American premiere on July 5. The first episode will also premiere at Anime Matsuri in Houston, Texas on August 9 at 2:30 p.m. CDT.