Yumemi Doji: A moving story that transcends the boundaries between fantasy and reality

The appeal and reputation of Yumemi Doji

Overview

"Yumemi Doji" is a short animated film produced by Toei and released on April 5, 1958. It is 16 minutes long, consists of one episode, and was directed by Fukiya Koji. This work is an original anime and was released in theaters. It was distributed by Toei and produced by Toei Educational Film Division.

story

The story of "Yumemi Doji" begins with Yumemi Doji, the ruler of dreams, taking a nap under a plum tree. The children of the village come to the doji to ask for the dreams they desire. A boy who loves fighting asks for a golden sword, and a girl who wants to be beautiful asks for a silver mirror to use for makeup. However, the doji will not grant dreams to the children who are filled with desire. The children leave angrily, and the doji is saddened by this.

One day, a kind-hearted girl visits the boy. She works at a chicken farmer's house to provide food for the children of poor families, and receives an egg in return. While he is dreaming, the girl places the precious egg in his hand and leaves. Moved by this kind act, the boy gives the girl happy dreams. This story makes us think deeply about desire, kindness, and the value of dreams.

Commentary

"Yumemi Doji" was drawn and directed by Fukiya Koji, who is known for his drawings of girls and lyrical paintings. Fukiya wrote on the promotional flyer that he "sought beautiful lines, vivid colors, and quiet movement." The work has a static atmosphere that differs from typical slapstick videos, and has been praised for its uniqueness. However, it seems that some viewers found the quietness boring. The work was also selected by the Ministry of Education, and its educational value has been recognized.

Main Staff

Many staff members were involved in the production of "Yumemi Doji." The production was by Toei's Educational Film Department, the planning was by Akagawa Koichi and Yamamoto Sanae, the composition and key animation was by Fukiya Koji, the backgrounds were by Itoi Shunji, the photography was by Ishikawa Mitsuaki, the music was by Ito Senji, and the sound was by Mori Takeshi. These staff members worked together to create a work with beautiful visuals and a profound message.

Evaluation and Impressions

"Dreaming Child" is a work that stands out for its beautiful visuals and tranquil atmosphere. Koji Fukiya's artistic touch can be seen throughout, and it is clear that he pursued visual beauty. The story also has deep content that makes you think about desire, kindness, and the value of dreams. In particular, the actions of the kind-hearted girl and the child's reaction to them will move the viewer.

However, some viewers may find the film's quietness boring. Those who enjoy slapstick and flashy scenes may find it lacking. Still, the film's quiet beauty and profound message make it worth taking the time to appreciate.

Recommended points

The reasons why I recommend "Yumemi Doji" are as follows:

• Beautiful visuals : Koji Fukiya's artistic touch can be seen throughout this work, which pursues visual beauty. The colors and lines in particular are beautiful and have the power to draw the viewer in.
• Deep message : A story that makes you think about desire, kindness, and the value of dreams. The act of the kind-hearted girl and the boy's reaction to it will move the viewer.
• Educational value : Recognized by the Ministry of Education, this work can teach children the importance of kindness and compassion.

Comparison with related works

Another work with a tranquil atmosphere and deep message, similar to "Yumemidouji," is Studio Ghibli's "My Neighbor Totoro." "My Neighbor Totoro" also depicts children growing up in a quiet life in harmony with nature. Both works are characterized by their visual beauty and deep messages, and are deeply moving to the viewer.

Another example of a work that depicts the contrast between desire and kindness is Disney's "Pinocchio." In "Pinocchio," the protagonist is driven by desire and goes astray, while the other character is depicted as being kind and righteous. "Dreaming Child" also depicts the contrast between desire and kindness, deeply moving the viewer.

How to watch

"Yumemi Doji" is now available on DVD and Blu-ray. It is also available on some video streaming services. It is particularly easy to find on streaming services that specialize in classic animation. When watching, we recommend that you take your time and enjoy the work in a quiet environment.

summary

"Yumemi Doji" is a short animated film with beautiful visuals and a deep message. It is characterized by Koji Fukiya's artistic touch and tranquil atmosphere, and is a story that makes you think about desire, kindness, and the value of dreams. It has also been recognized as having educational value, teaching children the importance of kindness and compassion. We hope you will take the time to enjoy this work.