The Tale of Issunboshi and Chibisuke: A thorough review of the moving and adventures of the little hero

The Tale of Issunboshi Chibisuke - The Tale of Issunboshi Chibisuke

■ Public Media

theater

■ Original Media

Anime Original

■ Release date

June 1935

■Frequencies

10 min

■ Number of Episodes

Episode 1

■ Director

Illustration and direction: Mitsuyo Seo

■ Production

Asahi Bussan Limited Partnership Film Department

■ Story

■ Review

Released in 1935, "The Tale of Issunboshi Chibisuke" is one of the most notable pre-war Japanese animation films. Produced by the Asahi Bussan Co., Ltd. Film Department and directed by Mitsuyo Seo, the film is a masterful animation of a traditional Japanese folk tale in a short ten-minute run-time, combining visual appeal with powerful storytelling.

The story begins with Chibisuke, a boy who is missing a finger, setting off from the countryside to succeed in the capital. Chibisuke's adventure begins with a long journey in a bowl boat and chopsticks, and is depicted as he reaches the shores of the capital. This scene emphasizes the contrast between Chibisuke's smallness and his big dreams, evoking empathy in the viewer. The scene where he climbs the vines on the earthen embankment, likening them to a rope ladder, is visually very impressive, symbolizing Chibisuke's ingenuity and courage.

After arriving in the capital, Chibisuke is given an audience in front of the Minister's mansion and performs the Tenpai Dance. This dance is an important scene that shows Chibisuke's talent and charm, and it is the reason why the Minister hires him as a servant. The animation here depicts Chibisuke's movements in detail and succeeds in giving a deep understanding of his character.

The climax of the story is when Chibisuke fights the mountain demon to protect the princess. Chibisuke stabs the demon's instep with a sword from his waist, and the demon is surprised and lets go of the princess. The moment is visually dramatic and deeply moving to the viewer's heart. Furthermore, the scene where Chibisuke uses stamps to replicate his own image and create a group not only demonstrates his creativity and strategy, but also maximizes the potential of animation. The scene where he defeats the demon with a match bullet symbolizes Chibisuke's courage and wisdom, and emphasizes the theme of the story with a strong visual impact.

The final scene in which Chibisuke transforms into a fine young man using the ogre's forgotten mallet symbolizes the conclusion of the story and Chibisuke's growth. This scene is visually beautiful, moving to the viewer and reaffirms the meaning of Chibisuke's journey.

"The Tale of Issunboshi Chibisuke" is one of the finest pre-war Japanese animated films in both storytelling and visual expression. The film brings together the directorial talents of Seo Mitsuyo and the production skills of the Asahi Bussan Co., Ltd. Film Department, making it enjoyable for modern animation enthusiasts. In particular, the themes portrayed through the character of Chibisuke and his adventures have universal value and will continue to inspire audiences across generations.

■Recommendation

"The Tale of Issunboshi Chibisuke" is a short but deeply moving work, and is particularly recommended for those with an interest in traditional Japanese folk tales and those who want to learn about the history of animation. It is also a suitable film for children who want to be moved by Chibisuke's courage and wisdom. It is also highly recommended for those who want to experience the visual beauty and powerful storytelling of animation. This is a work that allows you to fully experience the charm of pre-war Japanese animation films, and is definitely one to watch at least once.

Related information

This work was released in 1935, so it is difficult to obtain it in formats such as DVD or Blu-ray. However, it may be available to watch at some film archives or animation libraries. You can also find related information and reviews on the Internet to learn the background and behind-the-scenes stories of the work. It would also be an interesting experience to search for other works by Mitsuyo Seo and other animation works by the Asahi Bussan Co., Ltd. Film Department.

■ Summary

"The Tale of Issunboshi Chibisuke" is one of the finest pre-war Japanese animation films, and the themes it explores through Chibisuke's adventures and growth deeply touch audiences. The film combines visual beauty with powerful storytelling, making it enjoyable for modern animation fans as well. We encourage you to watch it at least once and experience its charm for yourself.