"The Stupid Bird" Review: A moving story and deep characters

"The Foolish Bird" - Reevaluating a Forgotten Anime Masterpiece

The animated film "The Foolish Bird," released on January 1, 1929, is a work that should be passed down to this day for its unique worldview and profound themes. However, even now, more than 90 years after its release, it cannot be said that this work is widely known among the general public. Therefore, in this article, we will reevaluate the appeal and value of "The Foolish Bird" and explain in detail why this work is still worth watching.

Overview

"Foolish Bird" was produced as an original anime work and directed by Sanae Yamamoto. Although it is a short one-episode film, the content is very dense, deeply moving and thought-provoking to the viewer. The media in which it was shown is listed as "other," but this refers to the special screening format at the time, and it is believed to have been shown in small movie theaters and cultural centers.

story

The story of "The Foolish Bird" is about a bird living in a small village. Unlike other birds, this bird tries desperately to understand who he is. However, his efforts are mocked by those around him as "foolish," and he spends his days in solitude. The story depicts the bird's journey to discover the meaning of its own existence, and various difficulties and trials await him along the way.

At the climax of the story, the bird finally understands who it is, and at that moment, the other birds around it also realize the truth. However, the moment passes in an instant, and the bird continues its lonely journey once again. This ending is deeply moving and thought-provoking for the viewer, making them consider the meaning of their own existence.

character

The bird, the protagonist of "The Stupid Bird," is a very fascinating character. Its appearance is simple and not very different from other birds. However, inside it lies a strong will and a spirit of inquiry, and viewers cannot help but sympathize with it and root for it. The surrounding birds also each have their own unique personalities, adding depth to the story.

In particular, the "wise bird" is depicted in contrast to the main character, and although it appears wise on the surface, it is actually a character who has lost sight of the meaning of its own existence. Through this contrast, the work delves deeply into the theme of "what is true wisdom?"

animation

The animation of "The Stupid Bird" is of very high quality considering the technical standards of the time. In particular, the depiction of the birds' flapping wings and facial expressions is very realistic, leaving a strong impression on the viewer. The backgrounds are also beautifully depicted, enhancing the atmosphere of the story.

The use of color is also very clever, and the way the color tones change as the story progresses skillfully manipulates the emotions of the viewer. In particular, the color change in the climax scene leaves a strong impression on the viewer.

music

The music in "The Foolish Bird" is an important element in enhancing the atmosphere of the story. In particular, the melody that reflects the feelings of the main character, the bird, deeply moves the audience. Furthermore, the music in the climax scene maximizes the audience's emotions, doubling the impact of the story.

theme

The theme of "The Foolish Bird" is the importance of "finding the meaning of one's existence." The main character, a bird, is mocked by those around him as being "foolish," but he tries desperately to understand who he is. His actions deeply move and provoke thought in the viewer, making them think about the meaning of their own existence.

The film also delves deeply into the theme of "what is true wisdom?" The depiction of a "wise bird" that appears wise on the surface, but has actually lost sight of its own meaning in existence, makes the viewer think about "what is true wisdom?"

Evaluation and impact

"The Foolish Bird" was highly praised when it was released, especially for its profound theme and beautiful animation. However, even now, more than 90 years after its release, it is difficult to say that this work is widely known among the general public. This is probably due to the unique screening format at the time and the fact that the content of the work is very different from that of general anime.

However, the value of "The Foolish Bird" will never be lost, and it is a work that should be reevaluated in the modern era. In particular, the themes of the importance of finding one's own meaning in life and what true wisdom is are extremely important in modern society, and they will deeply move the viewer and encourage them to think.

Recommendation

"The Foolish Bird" delves deeply into the themes of the importance of finding one's own meaning in life and what true wisdom is, and is deeply moving and thought-provoking to the viewer. I highly recommend this film to anyone looking for a work that makes them think about the meaning of their own existence, or to those who want to enjoy an anime that depicts a profound theme. I also recommend this film to those who enjoy beautiful animation and music.

"The Foolish Bird" is a forgotten classic anime, but it never loses its value. I urge you to watch this work and enjoy its profound theme and beautiful animation.