Director Kazuya Tsurumaki talks cold war influence in Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX
Kazuya Tsurumaki
, the director of the upcoming anime
Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX
, has shared insights into his vision for the latest installment of the iconic mecha franchise. While GQuuuuuuX features a collaboration with
Hideaki Anno
, the creator of Neon Genesis Evangelion, it is Tsurumaki's direction that is drawing significant attention. In a recent interview, Tsurumaki explained his approach to the series, focusing on themes of a "Cold War" alternate-history story, which he believes will give fans a fresh perspective on the Gundam universe.
A cold war story for Gundam fans
Unlike many other Gundam stories, Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX is not a typical "parallel universe" tale. Instead, Tsurumaki describes it as an "alternate-history war chronicle," blending the well-established Universal Century timeline with a new, unique narrative. Tsurumaki's approach focuses on characters navigating a secret war between the Zeon forces and Earth Federation resistance, set against the backdrop of the Cold War era. This historical context adds layers of tension, as characters face the fear of war breaking out at any moment, but without direct conflict in their immediate surroundings.
'I wanted to create a Gundam series that deals with the concept of Newtypes, but with a more mature approach," said Tsurumaki. "I wanted to explore Newtypes in a way that hasn't been done before, portraying them as more experienced, adult characters rather than the more youthful and unstable ones we've seen in previous Gundam shows."
Influence of FLCL and Evangelion
Tsurumaki, known for his work on the legendary FLCL and Diebuster, brings his unique storytelling style to GQuuuuuuX. He emphasized that his previous experience working with Hideaki Anno on Evangelion didn't directly influence the Clan Battles seen in Gundam GQuuuuuuX. However, Tsurumaki does draw from his experience creating synchronized combat scenes, much like the famous battle sequences in Evangelion where two characters must cooperate to fight.
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He also reflected on his long career, noting that while he doesn't feel much personal growth in terms of creative style since FLCL, his physical ability to handle long hours of work has diminished. "I may be older, but my mentality remains the same," Tsurumaki explained.
Challenges in reimagining Gundam
Taking on Gundam was a significant challenge for Tsurumaki, who, despite being a fan, had reservations about directing such a beloved series. Unlike Evangelion and Gunbuster, Tsurumaki admitted he didn't feel the same confidence about Gundam initially. However, he was drawn to the idea of presenting Gundam through a Cold War lens, a period of tension and uncertainty that he personally experienced during his childhood.
Tsurumaki also spoke about the lasting impact of FLCL and the surprising fanbase it has garnered over the years. He mentioned that Kenshi Yonezu, the composer for Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX, was inspired by FLCL, further cementing the legacy of his earlier work.
When asked about his favorite Mobile Suit, Tsurumaki revealed that the Gelgoog is his top choice, further emphasizing his personal connection to the Gundam universe.
What's next for Gundam fans?
With the debut of Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX set for later in 2025, Tsurumaki's Cold War-inspired storyline promises to bring a fresh and exciting perspective to the
Gundam franchise
. Fans of
mecha anime
can expect a unique blend of political tension, mature characters, and thrilling battles, all set against the backdrop of a carefully constructed alternate history.
Tsurumaki's work on Gundam GQuuuuuuX is one to watch, especially for those interested in the evolving nature of this legendary anime series. As the anime industry continues to push boundaries, GQuuuuuuX stands as a testament to Tsurumaki's ability to balance legacy with innovation.
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