"Kaumori" Review: A Captivating Story and Deep Characters

"Kaimori": A moral tale from the dawn of Japanese animation

■Overview of the work

"The Forest" is a Japanese animated film released in 1931 and produced by Yokohama Cinema Shokai. It was directed by Yasuji Murata, who also did the animation, and the cinematography was by Yukikiyo Ueno. It is a six-minute short animated film with a complete story in one episode, which was released in theaters. The original work is an original anime, and it occupies an important place in the history of Japanese animated films at that time.

■ Story

The story of "Kaumori" is set in a time when birds and beasts were at war. In the midst of the fierce battle, the bats used their cleverness to adopt a cunning strategy of siding with either side only when it was advantageous for them. However, after the war ended with peace, the bats' actions were criticized by both sides and they were ostracized. From then on, the bats had no choice but to fly around the world at night, making this a moral tale. The story is detailed in the History of Japanese Animation Films, p. 202.

■Explanation

"The Forest" is positioned as a moralizing anime. Throughout the story, it shows how abusing cleverness and betraying trust are reprehensible. It also reflects the social situation and moral values ​​of the time, giving viewers deep insight. Although it was one of the early animated films, its themes and messages still have the power to make many people think.

■ Main staff

・Illustration by Yasuji Murata ・Photography by Yukiki Ueno

■Production Background

"The Forest" reflects the state of the Japanese animation industry in the early 1930s. At the time, animation was still a new medium, and many creators were exploring its possibilities. Yokohama Cinema Shokai aimed to use this new form of expression to convey a social message. Yasuji Murata was both the animator and director, and his technique and artistry are the backbone of this work. Yukikiyo Ueno's cinematography is also an important factor in enhancing the work's perfection.

■ Animation technology

"Kaumori" is of extremely high quality considering the technical standards of the time. In particular, the depiction of the characters' movements and facial expressions brings out the charm of hand-drawn animation to the fullest. The scenes of bats flying and the battle scenes between birds and beasts are visually very impressive and have the power to draw the viewer in. The detailed depiction of the backgrounds also shows great attention to detail, enriching the worldview of the story.

■Music and Sound

Music and sound also play an important role in "Kaumori." In particular, the sound effects in the battle scenes and the sounds of bats flying complement the visual expression and heighten the tension of the story. The music also changes according to the development of the story, playing a role in enhancing the emotions of the viewer. Although the technology at the time was limited, the music and sound effects succeeded in improving the quality of the entire work.

■ Social impact

"The Forest" was well received by many viewers when it was released and was widely recognized as an anime with a moral lesson. This work not only taught moral lessons to children, but also provided deep insights for adults. It also proved that animation was an effective means of conveying social messages, and had a major influence on later animation works. In particular, the themes of war and peace, trust and betrayal, have resonated with viewers across the ages and have not lost their value even today.

■ Evaluations and Awards

"Kaimori" was highly acclaimed from the time of its release. In particular, the quality of the drawings and the depth of the story were highly praised, and the film was highly praised by many critics. This work also occupies an important place in the history of Japanese animation films, and has influenced researchers and creators in later generations. Although there are no records of any specific awards it has received, its influence and acclaim are immeasurable.

■ Recommendations and how to watch

"Kaimori" is a very valuable work as an early Japanese animation work and as a moral anime. It is especially recommended for those who are interested in the history of animation and social messages. It is also recommended for parents who want to teach their children moral lessons. It is currently available to watch on DVD or online streaming services. However, since it is a very old work, it may be difficult to obtain. In that case, we recommend looking for it in a library or a store specializing in animation films.

■ Related works

Other Japanese animation works produced at the same time as "Kawamori" include "Momotaro" and "Urashima Taro." These works also contain moral teaching elements, and are a good example of the characteristics of early Japanese animation. Other modern moral teaching anime include "My Neighbor Totoro" and "Spirited Away." These works share common elements with "Kawamori" in terms of story and theme, so it is recommended to compare them after watching.

■ Summary

"Kawamori" is a Japanese animated film released in 1931, and is highly regarded as a moral animation. The story depicts the cunning actions of bats and their consequences against the backdrop of a war between birds and beasts. The quality of the drawings, music, and sound is high, and the level of completion exceeds the technical standards of the time. It also had a great social impact, greatly influencing later animation works. It is recommended for viewers who are interested in the history and social messages of animation, and parents who want to give their children moral lessons. Related works include "Momotaro", "Urashima Taro", "My Neighbor Totoro", and "Spirited Away". "Kawamori" embodies the charm and value of early Japanese animation, and is well worth watching.