P.A. Works Commemorates 25 Years with Evocative 'Run Run Lantern' and Unveils New Sci-Fi Anime Epic

Japanese animation powerhouse P.A. Works is proudly commemorating its 25th anniversary, marking a quarter-century of captivating storytelling and visual artistry. To celebrate this significant milestone, the studio has released a deeply nostalgic video titled "Run Run Lantern," which initially premiered at their exclusive Lantern-sai event and is now readily available for fans worldwide on YouTube. Founded on November 10, 2000, in Nanto, Toyama, P.A. Works first made its indelible mark on the anime landscape as a lead animation studio in 2008 with the critically acclaimed series True Tears, setting a high standard for its subsequent works.

Beyond the reflective anniversary video, the celebrations extend to the launch of a brand-new original anime series, Dusk Beyond the End of the World (Towa no Yugure). This highly anticipated series, which debuted in September 2025, plunges viewers into a compelling sci-fi narrative. It follows Akira Himegami, who awakens from cryogenic sleep to find himself in a world drastically transformed from the one he once knew. His urgent quest: to locate his foster sister, Towasa Omaki, a journey he undertakes with the enigmatic android Yugure. The series is masterfully directed by Naokatsu Tsuda, with striking original character designs brought to life by Midori Tayama.

P.A. Works' expansive portfolio over the years includes not only revered anime series but also ventures into video games and fruitful collaborations with other prominent studios, such as Production I.G. The "Run Run Lantern" video stands as a poignant homage to this rich legacy, showcasing the studio's profound contributions to the anime industry through its engaging visuals and heartfelt, nostalgic theme. The studio's visionary founder and president, Kenji Horikawa, was instrumental in conceiving the anniversary video, with Tomomi Takada lending her artistic prowess to its character and concept design. This fusion of exceptional talent underscores P.A. Works' unwavering dedication to crafting high-quality content that resonates deeply with a global audience.

As P.A. Works continues its dynamic evolution, its core commitment to developing original, compelling narratives remains a defining characteristic. This 25th-anniversary celebration is more than just a moment for reflection; it's a powerful affirmation of the studio's enduring impact and its exciting trajectory within the ever-expanding world of anime. Fans can look forward to more groundbreaking original series and collaborative projects from this esteemed studio in the years to come.