Tomomi Mochizuki

Tomomi Mochizuki (望月 智充, born December 31, 1958 in Hokkaido, Japan) is a veteran Japanese storyboard artist, screenwriter and director whose career has spanned over four decades. While studying at Waseda University he joined the university’s animation circle, an experience that sparked his lifelong passion for moving pictures. In 1981 he entered the professional arena with Ajia‑do Animation Works, and a year later he earned his first major credit as production director on the 1982 magical‑girl series Tokimeki Tonight. His early work quickly progressed to directing such iconic titles as Magical Angel Creamy Mami and Hikari no Densetsu, establishing him as a trusted creative force in the 1980s magical‑girl boom. During the 1990s Mochizuki became a household name through his involvement with beloved series like Ranma ½ and Kimagure Orange Road, and he earned critical acclaim directing the Studio Ghibli television movie Ocean Waves. He often writes under the pseudonym Gō Sakamoto, a credit that appears on numerous storyboard and screenplay assignments including Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion and Brave Command Dagwon. More recent projects showcase his versatility: he helmed the noitaminA series House of Five Leaves (2010), the sport‑drama Battery (2016), and the atmospheric adaptation Yokohama Kaidashi Kikō. Alongside directing, he frequently serves as series coordinator, scriptwriter, and sound director, demonstrating a rare breadth of expertise. Married to fellow animator Masako Gotō, Mochizuki continues to influence the anime industry, bridging classic storytelling techniques with contemporary sensibilities.