GROTESQQQUE Director Atsushi Nishigori Explains the Creative Freedom Behind CloverWorks’ Bold Three-Part Anime Film

The upcoming original anime film GROTESQQQUE continues to generate excitement as director Atsushi Nishigori has shared new details about the creative philosophy behind CloverWorks’ ambitious anthology. Unlike many of his previous works, which were built around established franchises or structured productions, GROTESQQQUE gave Nishigori the opportunity to create an entirely original project with far greater artistic freedom.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with OtakuKart, the acclaimed director explained how the film evolved into a deeply personal project while also revealing why each of its three stories embraces a completely different artistic style. The anthology is scheduled to premiere in Japanese theaters on November 6, 2026, featuring the standalone stories ÆLIENS, Yoroshiku★Shoujo, and Nocturne: On This Grotesque Night. Additional production details, including its release date and three-part structure.

Atsushi Nishigori wanted GROTESQQQUE to showcase complete creative freedom

During his interview with OtakuKart, Nishigori reflected on how different GROTESQQQUE was compared to projects like DARLING in the FRANXX and Evangelion. He explained that previous productions followed well-defined structures, while this anthology allowed him to focus on ideas he personally wanted to bring to life.

“This project… was centered much more around doing something that I personally wanted to create. I had far more freedom. It felt like my own little treat—my little dessert—where I could finally make what I truly wanted.”

That freedom extended beyond the three main heroines. Nishigori revealed that he spent significant time developing the supporting cast and characters who exist on society’s margins, believing they play an important role in shaping each world and giving every story greater emotional depth.

The film also stands out for its music. Rather than composing tracks first, the animation team completed scenes before asking musicians to create songs that matched the visuals. Nishigori noted that several pieces were rearranged multiple times to achieve the right emotional balance, especially during the ending of Nocturne, where the team wanted to balance hope and sadness without leaning too heavily toward either emotion.

A still from GROTESQQQUE trailer

Every chapter was designed to feel like a different anime

One of GROTESQQQUE’s defining features is its constantly shifting visual identity. Nishigori said he intentionally wanted audiences to experience something fresh with each chapter, changing everything from character designs to background art.

“We changed everything, from character designs to backgrounds, so it almost feels like three different studios worked on the anthology.”

The anthology is further distinguished by a soundtrack featuring contributions from more than 35 artists, including METALVERSE, ASCA, Reol, and TAKU INOUE, reinforcing the unique atmosphere of each story.

Although each segment explores a different world and tone, Nishigori hopes audiences will embrace the anthology as one complete experience. When asked whether he had a favorite among ÆLIENS, Yoroshiku★Shoujo, and Nocturne, he responded with a heartfelt comparison:

“No parent would rank their own children. I created these three stories together, so I love them equally.”

With its experimental structure, varied animation styles, and music-first emotional storytelling, GROTESQQQUE is shaping up to be one of CloverWorks’ most distinctive original anime films when it arrives in Japanese theaters this November.