NEWS
"After War Gundam X" 30th Special Screening at TOHO Cinemas Ikebukuro Official Report
This news article was written in Japan.
On Sunday, September 27, the "After War Gundam X" 30th Special Screening was held at TOHO Cinemas Ikebukuro.
At the screening event, a talk show was held after the Part 1 screening and before the Part 2 screening, featuring Director Shinji Takamatsu, Character Designer Nobuyoshi Nishimura, and Mechanical Designer Junya Ishigaki, along with Wataru Takagi, the voice of Garrod Ran, as the MC.
During the talk show, they engaged in discussions commemorating the 30th anniversary of "Gundam X".
We bring you the details of the event in this official report.
"After War Gundam X" 30th Special Screening at TOHO Cinemas Ikebukuro Talk Show Report
15:00 Session (Post-Screening Talk Show)
About the Episodes Selected for the Screening
As the second opening theme, ROMANTIC MODE's "Resolution", played in the background, Wataru Takagi, the voice of Garrod Ran and the MC for the event, took the stage. Following his introduction, Director Shinji Takamatsu, Character Designer Nobuyoshi Nishimura, and Mechanical Designer Junya Ishigaki appeared on stage.
After their self-introductions, a talk segment began where they discussed the reasons for selecting the episodes screened this time and their memories from the production days.
For this screening, the guests picked the following six episodes as candidates: Episode 1 "Has the Moon Come Up?" (Director Takamatsu, Junya Ishigaki), Episode 14 "Can You Hear My Voice!" (Wataru Takagi), Episode 15 "I Wonder If There is a Heaven" (Nobuyoshi Nishimura), Episode 29 "Look at Me" (Nobuyoshi Nishimura), Episode 33 "How Do You Know Who I Am!?" (Junya Ishigaki), and Episode 39 "The Moon is Always There" (Director Takamatsu). Out of these, a total of four episodes were screened.
Regarding Episode 1, Director Takamatsu commented, "I struggled with what kind of work to make it, so I have a strong emotional attachment to it".
Junya Ishigaki also looked back on those days, saying, "There were so many mobile suits in the storyboards that I held a grudge against Mr. Takamatsu (laughs)".
It was also revealed that the project started in October, and animation meetings based on the design drafts were held in December. Junya Ishigaki, who was in his mid-20s at the time, revealed his busy production environment, saying, "I worked on 'Gundam X' during the day and 'The Vision of Escaflowne' at night", sharing that he had almost no days off.
Nobuyoshi Nishimura, who chose Episode 15, which depicts Roybea Loy and Witz Sou returning to their hometowns, explained his reason: "It's a completely independent story and my favorite episode". Regarding Episode 29, he revealed, "I wanted to share the embarrassment of the dream scene at the beginning with everyone", drawing laughter from the audience.
Junya Ishigaki, who selected Episode 33 where the Crouda (Lancerow Dawell's custom machine) makes its first appearance, explained, "Until then, we had a series of mobile suits that were destroyed in one episode, so I wanted to introduce a 'mobile suit that wouldn't go down in one hit'". Furthermore, while talking about his dedication to the Crouda, saying, "I designed it as a heavily armored unit, questioning what armor is even for in the first place", he added with a laugh, "But it does have a weak point on its stomach", looking back on his memories.
About the Theme of Newtypes
The next topic was about Newtypes, which form the foundation of "Gundam X". Handling Newtypes in this work was not originally Director Takamatsu's idea, but was triggered by a proposal from Hiroyuki Kawasaki, who was in charge of series composition, thinking, "If it's a Gundam series, we can't avoid it".
On the other hand, Director Takamatsu recalled, "I wanted to depict a story where boys and girls meet and live robustly in a devastated post-war world". Thus, Hiroyuki Kawasaki's idea and the theme Director Takamatsu wanted to depict merged, shaping the story of "Gundam X".
As production progressed, Director Takamatsu revealed that alongside the awareness of "making a Gundam", a desire to "protect Gundam" also sprouted within him. This emotion led to his empathy for Jamil Neate, who tries to protect Newtypes, stating, "I felt like Jamil was me".
Furthermore, this thought developed into the idea for the final episode: "exorcising the obsession of people trapped by the concept of Newtypes". Director Takamatsu shared a valuable behind-the-scenes story, revealing, "Mr. Kawasaki materialized the idea of a Newtype hermit on the moon exorcising the obsession", and that this existence was none other than D.O.M.E.
About the 30th Anniversary Key Visual
The topic then shifted to the "After War Gundam X" 30th anniversary key visual, released on September 25, the day of the harvest moon. Regarding the illustration featuring the Gundam DX, Garrod Ran, and Tiffa Adill, rough sketches before coloring were also projected on the screen, and Junya Ishigaki and Nobuyoshi Nishimura explained the production process leading up to completion.
Based on a layout proposed by the person in charge, Nobuyoshi Nishimura and Junya Ishigaki made detailed adjustments to solidify the final composition.
Regarding the Gundam DX, Junya Ishigaki revealed that although he initially envisioned a close-up of its profile, he ultimately changed the composition to include its torso. Explaining the reason, he said, "It's difficult to balance drawing only the face on an A3 size. The lines become too thin, and it lacks a sense of density". Furthermore, it was introduced that in the completed illustration, even the parts hidden behind Garrod and Tiffa were meticulously drawn.
Nobuyoshi Nishimura also mentioned the newly drawn illustrations included in the "After War Gundam X Record Collection A.W. 30th Chronicle". He shared a behind-the-scenes story about creating the new artwork, saying, "I started painting watercolors as a hobby about 10 years ago, and it turned into a job". The fans in the venue listened intently to the dedication and production secrets poured into the artwork coloring the 30th anniversary.
Ending
At the end of the talk show, the speakers delivered messages to the attendees.
Junya Ishigaki expressed his surprise, saying, "I never thought there would be an event like this for the 30th anniversary", and commented, "I would be happy if we could continue to the 31st, 32nd anniversaries, until everyone gets tired of it".
Nobuyoshi Nishimura reflected, "I never thought a work made as a TV series would be viewed on such a large screen", and conveyed his gratitude to the fans, saying, "It's a work I love so much that I would want to go see it even if I were just a viewer. I am filled with feelings of gratitude".
Director Takamatsu expressed his thanks, saying, "I am truly happy that there are people who love it this much even after 30 years", and commented, "We talk about even more in-depth things in the Record Collection, so please check it out!"
Amidst loud applause from the venue, the three left the stage.
Afterward, Wataru Takagi, who served as the MC, remained on stage and shared an anecdote from when he had a meal with Junya Ishigaki and Nobuyoshi Nishimura in preparation for this screening. He expressed his joy at being able to look back on "Gundam X" not only from the perspective of the cast but also from that of the staff and creators, and concluded the talk show with gratitude to the attendees.
[18:20 Session (Pre-Screening Talk Show)]
How "Gundam X" Was Made
Following the post-screening talk show of the 15:00 session, a pre-screening talk show was held for the 18:20 session.
As Garrod's voice shouting "I'm heading out!" echoed across the screen, MC Wataru Takagi appeared. Amidst cheers from the audience, Director Takamatsu, Nobuyoshi Nishimura, and Junya Ishigaki also took the stage at Wataru Takagi's introduction.
First, the talk focused on the time when the "After War Gundam X" project was launched. Valuable materials such as initial designs and working titles were projected on the screen, drawing gasps of surprise from the venue.
Director Takamatsu looked back with a laugh, saying, "Things progressed at such a rapid pace that I don't remember much of the process", while discussing the design concepts and the direction of the work at the time with Nobuyoshi Nishimura and Junya Ishigaki.
Regarding the Satellite Cannon, the iconic weapon of Gundam X, Director Takamatsu explained, "When I saw the design, I came up with the setting of receiving microwaves from the moon to fire it". Behind-the-scenes stories from the production days were revealed, showing how the worldview and settings were built upon inspiration from the designs.
About the Character Garrod Ran
The topic then moved to the protagonist of this work, Garrod Ran. Wataru Takagi spoke about "Gundam X", saying, "I think it's safe to say it's Garrod's story", revealing his thoughts on having the character Garrod at the center of the work.
Regarding Garrod's design, Nobuyoshi Nishimura confessed that the initial draft was rejected once. Since he was also participating in "Mobile Suit Gundam Wing" at the time, he recalled, "I felt I had to distance myself from that". The initial draft had a lower head-to-body ratio than the current one and was a design that brought the typical shonen manga protagonist vibe to the forefront, but it was revealed that it was brushed up into the current design through repeated adjustments based on various opinions.
Wataru Takagi also shared a secret story about the audition before he was chosen for the role of Garrod. He excited the venue with an anecdote that when he was cast as Garrod, Toshiyuki Morikawa, who would later play Shagia Frost, was surprised and said, "You're the main character!?"
Furthermore, Director Takamatsu explained his vision for Garrod, saying, "I wanted a character with boyish energy who would run forward on his own". He shared the reason for casting Wataru Takagi as Garrod, as he perfectly fit that image.
About Hiroyuki Kawasaki
As the talk neared its end, the topic turned to Hiroyuki Kawasaki, who handled the series composition.
Director Takamatsu recalled that in order to proceed with scenario production within a limited timeframe, he approached Hiroyuki Kawasaki, with whom he had previously teamed up on another work, to participate. When Director Takamatsu conveyed only the core ideas of the work's world, the plot for the first episode was completed shortly after. After that, the story was woven mainly by Hiroyuki Kawasaki, and the landing point of the entire work was also shaped. It was also revealed that Hiroyuki Kawasaki wrote many of the narrations for the next episode previews.
Wataru Takagi described Hiroyuki Kawasaki as a "magician of words". He reflected that his rich choice of words shaped the charm of "Gundam X", and the venue once again reflected on his achievements.
About the New Illustrations for "Record Collection A.W. 30th Chronicle"
The topic then shifted to the newly drawn illustrations included in the "After War Gundam X Record Collection A.W. 30th Chronicle".
Nobuyoshi Nishimura explained about the watercolor painting of the Freeden crew and Garrod & Tiffa that he worked on, saying, "I drew it with the final scene of the last episode in mind". On the other hand, he revealed that he couldn't include the Frost brothers due to layout constraints, showing a slightly apologetic expression.
Junya Ishigaki also shared production secrets about his newly drawn illustration of Gundam X and Gundam DX. Although the layout initially proceeded with the heads facing the opposite direction from the current one, the composition was changed considering the silhouettes and visual appeal of the mechs. Furthermore, adjustments were made to the space background so as not to interfere with the mechs' coloring, resulting in the current visual with the moon impressively placed.
Regarding illustration production, Junya Ishigaki explained, "I prioritize visual coolness over three-dimensional consistency", and that he arranged the size of the head and the structure of the arms from the settings to make them look more appealing. Furthermore, when he jokingly said, "When you think about it calmly, it's quite something that a man turning 60 next year is drawing pictures like this", the venue erupted in loud applause.
Ending
As the talk show reached its closing time, each speaker sent a final message to the attendees.
Following Junya Ishigaki and Nobuyoshi Nishimura, Director Takamatsu, who gave the final greeting, commented, "I am deeply moved. I hope you will continue to love it for 40, 50, 100 years". When he spoke of his feelings for the fans who have supported the work for many years, voices saying "Thank you!" came from the audience, and the venue was enveloped in warm applause.
After Director Takamatsu, Nobuyoshi Nishimura, and Junya Ishigaki left the stage, MC Wataru Takagi remained alone and sent a message to the attendees. He called on them to fully enjoy the episodes about to be screened, and while mentioning that it was a full moon that day, he once again spoke of his feelings for "Gundam X".
Finally, he greeted, "Please continue to support 'Gundam X'", and the talk show came to a close amidst loud applause.
"After War Gundam X" 30th Special Screening at TOHO Cinemas Ikebukuro
Date: Sunday, September 27, 2026 (1) 15:00 Session (Post-Screening Talk Show) / (2) 18:20 Session (Pre-Screening Talk Show)
Venue: TOHO Cinemas Ikebukuro, Tokyo
Speakers: Shinji Takamatsu (Director), Nobuyoshi Nishimura (Character Design), Junya Ishigaki (Mechanical Design), MC: Wataru Takagi (Voice of Garrod Ran) *Titles omitted
"After War Gundam X" 30th Anniversary Program "How is the After War?" September Issue Now Available!
"'Gundam X' is Always There" Project Also Underway!
■ A total of 39 posters featuring motifs from each of the 39 TV series episodes are appearing at Gundam-related facilities nationwide!
■ A giveaway campaign is currently underway where 30 lucky winners will receive a special mini poster!
⇒ Click here for the special page
"After War Gundam X" Record Collection A.W. 30th Chronicle Now Accepting Pre-orders!
Pre-order Period: Saturday, June 20, 2026, 10:00 AM to Sunday, October 4, 2026, 11:59 PM
Delivery Date: Tuesday, January 26, 2027
Price: 14,300 yen (tax included)
[Specifications]
■ Three-Sided Box
Specifications: A4 standard size
Features newly drawn illustrations of "Gundam X" and "Gundam DX" by Junya Ishigaki
■ DREAMS
Specifications: A4 full color / Over 250 pages x 1 book (planned)
Planned Contents:
- "After War Gundam X" All 39 Episodes Story Guide
- "After War Gundam X" Episode 1 / Episode 39 Famous Scene Storyboards
- Cast Interviews
- Production Staff Interviews, and more
■ Resolution
Specifications: A4 full color / Over 250 pages x 1 book (planned)
Planned Contents: Setting Materials Characters / Mecha / Art Settings / Rough Drafts, and more
[Retailer Exclusive Bonus]
Those who purchase this product at Premium Bandai and A-on STORE will receive a special clear sleeve.
*Design will be revealed at a later date.
[Sales Sites]
- A-on STORE
- Premium Bandai
- Akai Kuma-san
- Animate (including mail order)
- Seven Net Shopping
- AmiAmi
- Anime Store.JP
- Melonbooks
- Kadost
- Gamers Online Shop
- Yamada Denki (excluding some stores)
- Rakuten Books
- Joshin Disc Pier (including Joshin web shop)
- Yodobashi Camera
- Amazon.co.jp
- HMV&BOOKS online
- BicCamera
- Sofmap
- Getchu.com (Getchu-ya)
*Product specifications, shipping dates, and pre-order periods are subject to change without notice.
"After War Gundam X" 30th Anniversary Screenings Now Showing at Bandai Namco Filmworks Selection Vol.1!
Screening Theaters
Sapporo: TOHO Cinemas Susukino
Tokyo: TOHO Cinemas Ikebukuro
Nagoya: TOHO Cinemas Nagoya Sakae
Osaka: TOHO Cinemas Namba
Fukuoka: TOHO Cinemas Lalaport Fukuoka
Screening Schedule
・Friday, September 25 to Thursday, October 1: "After War Gundam X" 30th Anniversary Screening, Special Screening "The Boy and the Gundam" (Episode 1 "Has the Moon Come Up?" / Episode 14 "Can You Hear My Voice!" / Episode 29 "Look at Me" / Episode 39 "The Moon is Always There")
・Friday, October 2 to Thursday, October 8: "Love Live! The School Idol Movie"
・Friday, October 9 to Thursday, October 15: "Mobile Police Patlabor: The Movie" <"Theatrical Release Audio" & 4K Version>, "Mobile Police Patlabor 2: The Movie" <"Theatrical Release Audio" & 4K Version>
・Friday, October 16 to Thursday, October 22: "Etoile Blooming in Paris"
・Friday, October 23 to Thursday, October 29: Movie "SAND LAND"
・Friday, October 30 to Thursday, November 5: "Armored Trooper Votoms: The Last Red Shoulder", "Armored Trooper Votoms: Pailsen Files The Movie"
* During the period, each title is scheduled to be screened once a day.
* "IDOLiSH7 the Movie LIVE 4bit BEYOND THE PERiOD" <DAY 1> and <DAY 2> will be screened on alternating days.
* "Mobile Police Patlabor: The Movie" and "Mobile Police Patlabor 2: The Movie" will be screened on alternating days.
* "Armored Trooper Votoms: The Last Red Shoulder" and "Armored Trooper Votoms: Pailsen Files" will be screened on alternating days.
Ticket Prices
Regular price (Various discounts / Free admission tickets accepted)
Admission Present
[Name] Special Clear Card (Size: 86mm x 54mm planned / 12 types in total)
[Distribution Period] Friday, August 28, 2026 to Thursday, November 5, 2026
[Distribution Method] One card will be given per person viewing this work at participating theaters nationwide.
*The bonus given at the same screening is limited to one per person (per viewed work). Even if one person holds multiple reserved seat tickets, only one bonus will be given.
*Bonuses will be distributed upon entering the theater. We cannot hand over bonuses after entry or exit.
*Quantities are limited depending on the theater. Distribution will end as soon as supplies run out.
This is not a ticket purchase bonus. We will refuse distribution without admission.
We do not accept returns or exchanges of bonuses due to slight initial scratches or scuffs that occur during the production stage.
Admission presents are not for sale. Please refrain from reselling them.
"IDOLiSH7 the Movie LIVE 4bit BEYOND THE PERiOD" <DAY 1> and <DAY 2> will distribute the same design.
"Mobile Police Patlabor: The Movie" and "Mobile Police Patlabor 2: The Movie" will distribute different designs for each work.
"Armored Trooper Votoms: The Last Red Shoulder" and "Armored Trooper Votoms: Pailsen Files The Movie" will distribute different designs for each work.
*For details such as screening times, ticket prices, and sales schedules for each work, please check the respective theater websites.
⇒ Click here for the "Bandai Namco Filmworks Selection" special site