In Japan, animation is a big part of your media diet. I moved out to Los Angeles at 9, and when I got homesick, I would watch anime.

In this quote, Hiro Murai reflects on the importance of animation in Japanese culture, noting that it is a significant part of the media diet for many people in Japan. He explains that growing up in Japan, anime was a core element of his entertainment and cultural experience. By highlighting its widespread presence, Murai suggests that animation, particularly anime, is deeply ingrained in the lives of people from Japan, serving as a form of both entertainment and cultural identity.

Murai goes on to share a personal experience of moving to Los Angeles at the age of 9 and how, during moments of homesickness, he would turn to anime to feel more connected to his roots. This use of anime as a comfort tool speaks to the emotional connection Murai has with Japanese animation, using it to bridge the gap between his new life in the U.S. and his cultural background in Japan. His love for anime became a way for him to reconnect with his identity when feeling disconnected from his home.

The origin of this quote likely stems from Murai’s personal journey as a filmmaker and director, who, as a child, moved to a new country while maintaining ties to his Japanese heritage. His appreciation for anime reflects not only its role in his life growing up but also its impact on his creative work. Murai, known for his involvement in both film and television, may have drawn from his childhood experiences in his own artistic endeavors, blending cultural influences into his projects.

Ultimately, Murai’s quote underscores the profound impact of animation and anime in shaping cultural and personal identities. It highlights how entertainment, especially something as impactful as anime, can serve as both a source of comfort and a bridge to understanding one's roots, especially when living far from home.