In 2003, Akitaro Daichi's award-winning OVA, Animation Runner Kuromi, gave anime fans a glimpse into the crazy world of animation production. Through the eyes of Mikiko "Kuromi" Oguro, viewers discovered that the anime industry is far from glamorous. Deadlines, depression, and a crew that is best described as "batshit loco" all contributed to a near-breakdown for poor Kuromi. Hilarity ensued, and things pulled themselves together as "Time Journeys" managed to reach production. Two years later, the sequel to Animation Runner Kuromi arrives, and proves to be just as charming and funny as the original.

The story picks up three months after the first installment's. In those few short months, the studio's become busier, as it has taken on not one, but three different shows, much to the staff's dismay. Things seem to be going well, until the president hires a new production manager, and boots Kuromi into "the window seat" (the Japanese equivalent of a non-job). Unfortunately for the crew, the new production manager is keen on doing things quickly, and his methods go beyond half-assed. Wacky stuff happens, and the burden of saving the show falls upon Kuromi's shoulders once again. The basic framework of the plot boils down to Kuromi vs. Takashimadaira (the new production manager). Takashimadaira obviously stands as the antagonist, as he is a remorseless manager that isn't above abusing his subordinates to get the job done. In short, things can't get much more cut and dried in this regard.

Kuromi and crew are back, and wackier than ever.	Meet Takashimadaira: the sleazy bloke with a love for '60s-chic fashion.

To help things along, the entire eccentric cast from the original has returned. This includes the hefty anime nerd Haryu, the chain-smoking Shihonmatsu, and just about every other role from the previous installment. Three new faces round out the cast this time, with the most important being Takashimadaira. Takashimadaira is a veteran animation producer with a pencil moustache and a chip on his shoulder. He speaks heavily, and walks with a gait that would make Richard Simmons proud. In short, he's the perfect foil to a group of optimistic animators. Tokahara and Kumegawa, Takashimadaira's hired goons, are the stereotypical bitter old men: set in their ways, and unwilling to reason. The three new additions are welcome, and add a friction that never existed between the characters in the original.

As with many of Daichi's works, Animation Runner Kuromi approaches character design with the sensitivity of a speed freak with ADD. While a majority of the film seems rooted with the same base style of the first film, it is not uncommon to see Kuromi and crew break into completely different animation styles or character designs. Stark monochrome, super-detailed talking heads, and even the "show within a show" themes are not uncommon, and add to the frantic pace of the feature. Background music was recycled from the original Kuromi, which leaves few surprises on the audio end.

Much like its predecessor, Animation Runner Kuromi 2 is a hilarious treat. While the title is short, and rarely strays from its focus, this stands as a major strength. The lack of romantic tension and exhaustive character study is a blessing, as it allows for the actual comedy to take precedence. All aspects considered, Kuromi 2 is a wonderful complement to the original, and a must-have for fans of all lots.

Distributor: Central Park Media/US Manga Corps
Creator: Yumeta Co.
Released: 2006