NON appeared at the opening event for “MAPPA EXPO 15th Anniversary” as the exhibition ambassador.
“MAPPA EXPO 15th Anniversary,” an exhibition commemorating MAPPA’s 15th anniversary.
Ahead of the exhibition’s opening to the public tomorrow, September 16, a preview event was held for invited guests, and NON appeared at the opening event as the exhibition’s ambassador.
NON voiced the protagonist, Suzu Hojo, in the film *In This Corner of the World*, produced by MAPPA.
When asked about her feelings at the time she was cast, she reflected, “Even though it’s animation, the world it creates feels so real that you can almost believe the story within the film actually exists. I thought that if I didn’t take on the role of Suzu, I would definitely regret it later.”
Furthermore, regarding this project—his first role since becoming “NON,” which also marks its 10th anniversary this year—he described it as “a milestone for NON.”
“As I embark on a new chapter in my acting career, this is sure to be a special project,” he said, expressing his deep attachment to the role: “I felt it was my life’s mission.”
When asked about her favorite titles produced by MAPPA, she cited the anime series *Jujutsu Kaisen*, *Yuri!!! on ICE*, and *Jigokuraku*, commenting, “They’re wonderful and meticulously crafted. I love how they let you immerse yourself in their worlds,” “No matter which one I watch, I feel it’s stylish,” “The clever direction, camerawork, and movement are superb,” and “Watching them gives me chills—they’re just so cool.”
Regarding the exhibition’s theme, “Up Close to the Story,” she expressed her appreciation, saying, “That’s wonderful. As a fan of the work, I’d want to get up close to it. This exhibition makes that wish come true, and I’m truly moved by how fan-friendly and amazing it is.”
“Animation starts with drawing lines, and from that, colors, movements, and expressions that don’t exist in the real world are born,” she explained, discussing the exhibition’s appeal. “Being able to experience the work up close offers a sensation you just can’t get from watching it on TV or in the movies.”
When asked about her impressions after touring the venue, she said, “It was wonderful. They had original artwork on display, as well as several sculptures and art pieces being shown for the very first time,” and added with a cheerful voice, “Well, then, you just have to come here!”
She also mentioned that photography was allowed for almost all exhibits—with a few exceptions—and noted, “There were so many Instagrammable spots.”
Regarding the immersive exhibits, she praised them, saying, “They’re wonderful. I think they’re designed so you can focus on the work without thinking about anything else; it’s the kind of experience where you can approach it with a completely open mind, concentrate solely on that one thing, and let the world of the work fill your mind,” she gushed.
Finally, addressing fans of MAPPA’s works, she concluded the event with a message: “Since it’s MAPPA’s 15th anniversary, there are lots of new works on display, and the art exhibits are truly wonderful. It’s an exhibition that makes you feel as if you’re enveloped in the world of the works, so please be sure to stop by.”
The “MAPPA EXPO 15th Anniversary” will run from tomorrow, September 16, through October 25 for the first half, and from October 28 through December 7 for the second half.
■ “MAPPA EXPO 15th Anniversary” Official Website
https://expo.mappa.co.jp/
