"Issun-boshi" review: The story of a little giant and its appeal

The appeal and evaluation of Issunboshi

Released in 1928, "Issun-boshi" is a landmark work in the history of Japanese animation and is known as the first animated film to be released in theaters. The work was produced by Tokyo Line Film Production Company, with Kanai Ichiro and Yamamoto Sanae as production staff. Below, we will delve deeper into the detailed information and reviews of "Issun-boshi," as well as its appeal.

Overview

"Issun-boshi" is a short animated film with a complete story in one episode, and its story is based on a traditional Japanese folk tale. The main character, Issun-boshi, is a small boy who is only one inch (about 3 centimeters) tall, just as his name suggests. However, it is a touching story of how he embarks on a great adventure with his small body, ultimately saving the princess and growing as a person.

Background

"Issun-boshi" was produced at the dawn of animation and is highly regarded for its technical challenges and innovation. Animation was still a new medium in Japan in the 1920s, and its production faced many difficulties. However, the staff at Tokyo Senga Film Seisakusho completed the film with limited technology and resources. In particular, Kanaigi Ichiro and Yamamoto Sanae made a major contribution, and it can be said that their creativity and technical ability led to the success of "Issun-boshi."

Story and Characters

The story of "Issun-boshi" is simple yet moving, with the main character, Issun-boshi, growing through his adventures and ultimately saving the princess. Despite his small physique, Issun-boshi is portrayed as brave and ready to face any challenge. Many characters are also involved in his adventures, each of whom supports Issun-boshi's growth. In particular, his meeting with the princess and the subsequent events deeply move viewers.

Animation Technology

Considering the technical standards of the 1920s, "Issun-boshi" is an animation of extremely high quality. With the technology of the time, hand-drawn animation was the norm, making it extremely difficult to express minute movements. However, in "Issun-boshi," even the smallest movements and expressions of Issun-boshi are carefully drawn, and the technical skill is astonishing. In addition, the backgrounds and colors are used beautifully, making it a visually appealing work.

Music and Sound

"Issun-boshi" was released as a silent film. Therefore, the music and sound were supplemented with live performances and sound effects when shown in theaters. However, nowadays, when watching on DVD or online, music and sound are sometimes added later. These music and sounds enrich the development of the story and play a role in enhancing the emotions of the viewer.

Evaluation and impact

"Issun-boshi" is a highly influential work in the history of Japanese animation and is highly regarded. In particular, its historical significance is immeasurable as it was the first animated film to be released in theaters. It is also loved by many viewers for its moving storyline and appealing characters. Furthermore, "Issun-boshi" has had a major impact on animation production in later generations, and its technical challenges and innovation are still admired today.

Recommendations and how to watch

"Issun-boshi" is an essential work for understanding the history of animation, and is highly recommended for those who are particularly interested in animation and traditional Japanese folk tales. It is also recommended for those who want to experience the moving story and charm of the characters. "Issun-boshi" is available to watch on DVD and online, and many viewers are rediscovering its appeal. Please watch this historic work and experience its excitement and charm.

Supplementary Information

Since its release in 1928, "Issun-boshi" has been featured in many media outlets, and its influence continues to this day. In particular, it has been featured frequently on television, in movies, and in books, and its historical significance and appeal are being reevaluated. "Issun-boshi" is also an important work from an educational perspective, and is used as teaching material to teach children about traditional Japanese folk tales and the history of animation. "Issun-boshi" has also been highly acclaimed overseas, and its international influence cannot be overlooked.

Related works and recommendations

Other works related to "Issun-boshi" include the animated films "Momotaro" and "Urashima Taro," which are also based on traditional Japanese folk tales. Like "Issun-boshi," these works are praised for their moving stories and appealing characters, and leave a deep impression on viewers. Other works that have had a major impact on the history of animation, like "Issun-boshi," include "Astro Boy" and "Lupin the Third." These works are also praised for their technical challenges and innovation, providing new impressions and surprises to viewers. We encourage you to watch these related works and gain a deeper understanding of the appeal of "Issun-boshi."

summary

"Issun-boshi" is a work that has left its mark in the history of Japanese animation, and its historical significance and appeal are immeasurable. It is loved by many viewers for its moving story, the appeal of its characters, and its technical challenges and innovation. Please watch this historic work and experience its excitement and appeal. Also, please watch works related to "Issun-boshi" and works that have influenced the history of animation to gain a deeper understanding of its appeal.