The appeal and evaluation of "The Monkey and the Crab Battle": A new interpretation of a classic fairy tale

Monkey and Crab Battle - Sarukanigassen

■ Public Media

theater

■ Original Media

Anime Original

■ Release date

1931

■ Number of Episodes

Episode 1

■ Director

Shigeji Ogino (listed in NFC / listed as unknown in Japanese animation film history, p. 205)

■Explanation

16mm record talkie. Synchronized with Orient Records 60345A/B.
Source: History of Japanese Animation Films, p. 205

Detailed evaluation and recommendation of Sarukanigassen

Released in 1931, Sarukanigassen (The Battle of the Monkey and the Crab), occupies an important place in the history of Japanese animation films. This is an original anime film released in theaters, and was produced as a record talkie using 16mm film. It was shown synchronized with Orient Records 60345A and B, symbolizing the fusion of technology and art at the time.

Story and Themes

"The Monkey and the Crab" is a story based on an ancient Japanese folk tale. Although the plot is simple, with a monkey and a crab fighting each other and the crab ultimately winning, it also contains moral lessons and depicts the complexities of human relationships. This work is not only entertainment for children, but also has depth that can be enjoyed by adults.

Animation Technology

Considering the historical background of 1931, the animation technology of "The Crab and the Monkey" was extremely advanced. The use of 16mm film and the synchronization with a record to create animation with sound is a testament to the ingenuity of the engineers of the time. In particular, the depiction of the characters' movements and facial expressions brings out the beauty of hand-drawn animation to the fullest.

Director and staff

Director Ogino Shigeji played an important role in the Japanese animation film industry. His work is highly regarded not only for its technical innovation but also for its storytelling. However, the director of "Sarukanigessen" is listed as "unknown" on page 205 of the History of Japanese Animation Films, so it is debatable whether Ogino Shigeji definitely directed the film. Nevertheless, the high quality of this work is understandable when viewed in light of his other works.

Music and Sound

The film, which was shown in sync with Orient Records 60345A and B, is also worthy of mention in terms of its music and sound. Making full use of the recording technology of the time, the film skillfully combines the voices of the characters, sound effects, and background music to create a film that can be enjoyed not only visually but also aurally. In particular, the music in the confrontation scenes between the monkey and the crab is effective in heightening the sense of tension.

Cultural influences

"The Crab and the Monkey" is an important step in the history of Japanese animation. The film was released in 1931, when Japanese animation was still in its infancy, and it had a major impact on its subsequent development. The story, based on a folk tale, also has educational value, as it is used as a way to convey moral lessons to children.

Recommendations and ratings

Sarukanigassen is an essential piece of animation history. A blend of technical innovation and artistic expression, it has much to teach not only its contemporary audiences, but also us today. It is especially recommended for those who want to learn about the early development of animation and those interested in classic Japanese folk tales. It is also excellent entertainment for children, making it a fun film for the whole family.

Supplementary Information

"The Battle of the Monkey and the Crab" is now a very valuable work. Due to the state of preservation of the film and limited screening opportunities, you may not have many opportunities to see it. However, you can see parts of it in video archives and books about the history of animation films. You can also refer to materials and reviews published on the Internet.

Related works and recommendation list

If you enjoyed "The Crab Wars," we also recommend the following films, which will also give you a sense of the history and technical innovation of animation films.

• "Momotaro's Sea Eagle" - A Japanese animated film released in 1943. It was made as war propaganda, but it also shows the advancement of animation technology.
• "Astro Boy" - A TV anime released in 1963. One of the works that helped Japanese animation spread around the world.
• Spirited Away - Studio Ghibli film released in 2001. This film is considered one of the best Japanese animated films, and has been praised for both its story and animation techniques.

Conclusion

"Sarukanigassen" occupies an important place in the history of Japanese animation films, and its technical innovation and artistic expression have much to teach us today. This film will give you a chance to learn more about the history of animation films and technological advances. Please give it a watch.