GeeXPlus, a prominent Tokyo-based talent management and global media company, has announced the launch of its new division, GeeXProductions, marking a significant expansion into original anime content production. This strategic move aims to empower creators by enabling them to fully leverage their intellectual property. The inaugural slate of projects under GeeXProductions includes the highly anticipated anime short film “Bâan -The Boundaries of Adulthood-” from the renowned anime YouTuber Gigguk, alongside projects from DillonGoo and OtakuVS.
The Genesis of GeeXProductions
GeeXPlus, a subsidiary of Dwango Co., Ltd. and Kadokawa Corporation, has historically focused on connecting Japanese brands with global influencers and supporting international talent in making Japan their content creation hub. With the establishment of GeeXProductions, the company is now directly venturing into the realm of animation production, providing a robust platform for its roster of popular creators to bring their original visions to life. The division’s launch was officially announced at Anime Expo 2025 during the company’s content creation panel. This move signifies GeeXPlus’s ambition to position Tokyo as a central hub for international content creation, bridging geographical and industrial gaps.
Gigguk’s “Bâan -The Boundaries of Adulthood-“: A Deep Dive
Among the flagship projects introduced by GeeXProductions, Gigguk’s “Bâan -The Boundaries of Adulthood-” stands out as a key highlight. Gigguk, whose real name is Garnt Maneetapho, is a celebrated figure in the anime YouTube community, known for his insightful reviews, commentaries, and interviews. He is also a co-host of the popular “Trash Taste” podcast and will serve as an advisor to the newly formed GeeXProductions division.
Narrative and World-Building
“Bâan -The Boundaries of Adulthood-” is an 18-minute anime short film that promises a unique narrative experience. The story is set in two interconnected worlds: real-world Japan and the fictional realm of Euthania, which are linked by a mysterious warp gate. This setup allows for an “isekai” (other world) element without the traditional “Truck-kun” trope, as noted by GeeXPlus.
The plot centers on two protagonists: Arai Daichi, a 21-year-old Japanese man grappling with family conflicts who seeks to escape to Euthania, and Rinrada Ratchamanee, a 19-year-old Euthanian who ventures from her village to connect with Japan. The narrative explores their individual journeys as they search for a place where they truly belong, highlighting themes of self-discovery and the complexities of adulthood. The fictional world of Euthania is depicted as having a mild, peaceful climate, populated by fantasy races, but it also harbors threats such as large monsters. A distinctive aspect of the setting is its inspiration from Thai and Southeast Asian mythology, adding a rich cultural layer to the fantasy elements.
Creative Talent Behind the Project
The production of “Bâan -The Boundaries of Adulthood-” boasts an impressive lineup of creative talent, ensuring a high-quality animated experience.
Director and Animation
The short is directed by Yoshimitsu Ohashi, a seasoned director known for his work on titles such as “Code Geass: Rozé of the Recapture,” “Galaxy Angel,” and “Witchblade.” The animation production is handled by Studio Daisy, which also has Marin Inai serving as the sakuga director, ensuring dynamic and well-executed animation sequences.
Music and Art
The evocative musical score for “Bâan” is composed by Kevin Penkin, widely acclaimed for his mesmerizing work on anime series like “Made in Abyss,” “The Rising of The Shield Hero,” and “The Apothecary Diaries.” The visual aesthetics are overseen by Hanyu, who serves as both the character designer and general art director, crafting the distinct look of the characters and the world. Natsumi Watabe, known for “Night World ONA,” is responsible for the color design, while Sato Takahara is the art director, contributing to the overall visual coherence and atmosphere of the film.
Script and Voice Acting
Megumi Hosaka is credited as the scriptwriter, shaping the dialogue and narrative flow of the short. The lead characters are brought to life by a talented voice cast: Haruna Mikawa voices Rin, and Shoya Ishige portrays Daichi. The film will be released with both Japanese and English dubs, catering to a global audience.
Release and Future Prospects
“Bâan -The Boundaries of Adulthood-” is slated to premiere theatrically in Tokyo on August 24, 2025. Following its Japanese theatrical run, the short will be made available on Gigguk’s YouTube channel. This YouTube release will be accompanied by a behind-the-scenes documentary, offering fans a unique glimpse into the making of the anime.
GeeXProductions’ Broader Vision
While “Bâan” is a prominent initial offering, GeeXProductions’ launch encompasses other exciting creator-led projects, demonstrating the division’s diverse creative pipeline. These include:
DillonGoo’s “Soul Mart”
DillonGoo, a renowned 3D animator and storyteller, is developing “Soul Mart,” an original 12-episode 3D Blender animation series. This project also exists as a webcomic and is described as a story set in a near-future convenience store where strange products appear, and demons have learned to leverage capitalism to acquire human souls. The plot follows a notorious graffiti artist, Kieru Kamiya, who becomes dangerously addicted to an energy drink, forcing him to team up with a timid cashier and an unemployed demon to uncover the truth and save himself. Voice actors Aleks Le, Emi Lo, and Daman Mills are attached to the anime adaptation.
OtakuVS’s “Otachan! Rabbit Season”
Studio OtakuVS, an indie anime studio known for blending internet subculture with traditional animation, is continuing its long-running indie anime short series with “Otachan! Rabbit Season.” Influenced by ’90s and Toonami-era anime, this fast-paced, genre-blending series follows the chaotic exploits of its titular protagonist, Otachan, as she navigates a violent underworld filled with mad scientists, fight clubs, and cold-blooded killers. OtakuVS aims to revive the style of gritty, high-quality OVAs with this work.
The establishment of GeeXProductions represents a significant step for GeeXPlus in fostering creative endeavors and expanding its influence in the global content landscape. By empowering digital creators like Gigguk, DillonGoo, and OtakuVS to produce high-quality animated works, GeeXProductions is poised to deliver innovative and engaging content to a worldwide audience, further solidifying Tokyo’s role as a nexus for international content creation.
