STEEL BALL RUN Director Yasuhiro Kimura Shares Horseback Riding Research

Bringing the Wild West to Life

STEEL BALL RUN, the 7th story arc of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, has captivated audiences with its unique blend of western and supernatural elements. At the helm of the anime adaptation is director Yasuhiro Kimura, known for his meticulous attention to detail. In a recent interview, Kimura shared his research process, which included horseback riding to ensure accuracy in the anime.

Kimura's decision to ride a horse was not taken lightly. With the story set in the United States during the late 19th century, the director wanted to capture the essence of the Wild West. He spent several hours riding a horse, feeling the rhythm of its movements and understanding the connection between the rider and the animal.

"I wanted to experience the sensation of riding a horse, to feel the wind in my hair and the sun on my face," Kimura explained. "It was exhilarating and helped me to better understand the characters and their relationships with their horses."

A Deep Dive into Research

Kimura's research did not stop at horseback riding. He delved deep into the history of the United States during the late 19th century, studying the culture, architecture, and fashion of the time. He also consulted with historians and experts to ensure that the anime was accurate and respectful of the era.

"I spent countless hours reading books and watching documentaries on the history of the Wild West," Kimura said. "I wanted to create an immersive experience for the audience, one that would transport them to another time and place."

Kimura's attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the anime, from the characters' costumes to the architecture of the towns and cities. The director's commitment to research has paid off, with the anime receiving widespread critical acclaim.

What to Expect from STEEL BALL RUN

STEEL BALL RUN is a story of adventure, friendship, and self-discovery. The anime follows Jotaro Kujo, the protagonist of the previous story arc, and his allies as they compete in a transcontinental horse racing competition. Along the way, they encounter a range of characters, from rival racers to supernatural entities.

"STEEL BALL RUN is a story about pushing oneself to the limit, about overcoming obstacles and achieving greatness," Kimura said. "I hope that the audience will be inspired by the characters and their journeys."

What to Watch Next

With STEEL BALL RUN gaining momentum, fans are eagerly anticipating the next installment of the JoJo's Bizarre Adventure series. While there has been no official announcement, rumors are circulating about a potential adaptation of the 8th story arc, JOJOLION.

For those who are new to the series, the previous story arcs are available to stream on various platforms, including Crunchyroll and Funimation. Fans can also explore the manga series, written and illustrated by Hirohiko Araki, which is available in print and digital formats.