2019: A life-sized, moving Gundam is completed!?

Project Launches for 40th Anniversary

The "Gundam GLOBAL CHALLENGE" general incorporated association, established by Sotsu and Sunrise, has launched a new project for 2019, the 40th anniversary of the anime "Mobile Suit Gundam." It's an ambitious endeavor to operate an 18-meter, life-sized Gundam. On July 9th, they held a press conference and panel discussion at Bellesalle Kanda in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo.

At the press conference, Representative Director Yasuo Miyakawa (President of Sunrise) outlined the five-year plan. He revealed that until February 2015, they will solicit ideas for "moving" the Gundam globally in both real and virtual domains. Following this, they will refine the ideas and conduct research and development in an open innovation format alongside the contributors.

Yoshiyuki Tomino, creator of Gundam, who appeared at the press conference, commented, "I am delighted that the day when the concept (of actually moving Gundam) becomes reality, and moreover, a reality involving fans worldwide, is approaching." Harutoshi Fukui, a writer known for his love of Gundam and author of the novel "Mobile Suit Gundam UC," expressed his anticipation, saying, "I want to see it not only move but also fly," exciting the audience.

 
 	SUGIZO (left) and Tomino (c) Sotsu・Sunrise

The subsequent panel discussion featured Fukui, alongside musician SUGIZO (known for X-JAPAN and LUNA SEA, who participated in the 2009 compilation album "GUNDAM UNPLUGGED"), Waseda University Vice President and Professor of Science and Engineering Shuji Hashimoto (technical supervisor for the project), and Representative Director Miyakawa. Moderated by neuroscientist Kenichiro Mogi, they exchanged views.

The discussion began with Dr. Mogi's question: "What is the appeal of Gundam?" Both Mr. Fukui and SUGIZO, who stated "Becoming a fan was practically a generational obligation," introduced the appeal of the series, starting with the anime, from various perspectives. Their fan-like banter drew laughter from the audience. The conversation then turned to what Dr. Mogi called "an unavoidable topic when discussing Gundam": the military use of robots and robot technology in society. Dr. Hashimoto offered his expert opinion, emphasizing the significant social importance of this project to operate an 18-meter life-size Gundam.

Finally, Representative Director Miyagawa stated, "Back in 2009, when we erected the life-size statue at Odaiba Seaside Park, the plan was driven by the pure desire to see how interesting it would be once it stood. We convinced the company internally and made it happen. This time too, we want to create something enjoyable and moving as entertainment that transcends gender and generations." Furthermore, considering that 2019 is the year before the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics, and against the backdrop of the recent emphasis on Cool Japan, Mr. Fukui added, "We hope the 'moving' Gundam will become an icon that further draws attention to Japan."

 

Panel Discussion (c) Sotsu・Sunrise

 

"Gundam GLOBAL CHALLENGE" Website
http://gundam-challenge.com/