Studio Chizu’s Mirai directed by Mamoru Hosoda was selected to receive the award for Best Animated Independent Feature at the 46th Annie Awards.

This is the first time a Japanese director has won in this category. The other nominated films in the same category include Ce Magnifique Gâteau!, MFKZ, Ruben Brandt, Collector and Tito and the Birds.

Hosoda made the following statement about the win: “I was very surprised when they called out Mirai, but I’m incredibly happy. This is a personal film modelled on my own childhood, but for such a small film as this to receive such a big award that encompasses [films from around] the world, in being able to hold hands with people throughout the world and convey my feelings fills me with surprise and gratitude. I am grateful that the story of an ordinary Japanese family reached and was able to be seen by people from different countries. I am thankful to everyone who has watched Mirai, everyone at Studio Chizu, and my wife and children. Thank you.”