The appeal and evaluation of "This is a UFO! Flying Saucer": A must-read review for anime fans

"This is a UFO! Flying Saucer" - A short animated film that colored the occult boom of 1975

■ Public Information

"This is a UFO! Flying Saucer" is a short animated film that was released on March 21, 1975. It was produced by Toei Animation and distributed by the same company. Although it is a short 16-minute film with only one episode, it attracted attention for its content that reflected the occult boom at the time. This film was shown as part of the "Toei Manga Festival," appearing on the screen alongside other popular works.

■ Story

The story begins with an incident in 1948 in Kentucky, USA, where hundreds of citizens witnessed a UFO. Captain Mantell and his team, who were training near the scene, begin to track the UFO, but it disappears. Meanwhile, in New Hampshire, Mr. and Mrs. Hill are abducted by aliens and have the shocking experience of being examined inside a flying saucer. Based on these real events, this documentary-style film makes viewers think about the existence of UFOs.

■Explanation

The 1970s was a time of growing interest in UFOs and the occult. In particular, 1975 was the peak of the UFO boom, and this film was produced to ride that wave. By combining animation with actual photographs, it creates a more realistic atmosphere. Director Kazukiyo Shigeno effectively developed the story in this short time, leaving a strong impression on viewers. This film was also produced by a team of the finest Toei Animation staff of the time, including producer Tomonori Imada, screenwriter Masaki Tsuji, and animation director Sadayoshi Tominaga.

■Cast

The voice actors for this work are Osamu Kato and Koichi Mori. Osamu Kato is a veteran voice actor who has demonstrated his skills in numerous works, and Koichi Mori is also a talented actor who has worked in many works. Their voices effectively express the mystery and fear of UFOs.

■ Main staff

Director: Kazukiyo Shigeno Producer: Tomonori Imada Screenplay: Masaki Tsuji Animation Director: Sadayoshi Tominaga Cinematographer: Toru Owada Music: Shigeru Miyashita Scriptwriter: Hiroshi Minamiyama

This film was produced by a unified team of staff, and succeeded in maximizing the effect in a short time. In particular, Shigeru Miyashita's music plays an important role in amplifying the sense of mystery and fear of UFOs.

■ Related works

"This is a UFO! Flying Saucer" was shown as part of the "Toei Manga Festival." Other popular works shown at the same time included:

• "Andersen's Fairy Tale: The Little Mermaid"
• "Great Mazinger vs. Getter Robo"
• "Kamen Rider Amazon"
• "Go Robocon!"
• "Magical Girl Meg-chan: Messenger from the Moon"

Screening it alongside these films helped the film reach a wider audience.

■ Evaluation and recommendation

"This is a UFO! Flying Saucer" is a work that symbolizes the occult boom of 1975, and is still loved by many fans today. In a short time, this work succeeded in effectively depicting the existence of UFOs and their mystique, making it a valuable work that reflects the social background of the time. In addition, the documentary-style direction and the method of incorporating actual photographs made a strong impact on viewers.

The recommended points are as follows:

• Learn about the occult boom of the 1970s
• The story unfolds effectively in a short space of time.
• A unique production that combines animation and actual photographs
• Produced by the elite staff of Toei Animation at the time
• Enjoy it alongside other popular films shown at the same time.

This film is recommended for those who are interested in UFOs and the occult, as well as those who are interested in Japanese animation culture of the 1970s. It is also a must-watch for those who want to know the appeal of short animation.

■Detailed information

Release media: Theatrical Original media: Anime Original release date: March 21, 1975 - January 1, 0000 Distributor: Toei Animation Running time: 16 minutes Number of episodes: 1 episode Director: Kazukiyo Shigeno Production: Toei Animation

■ Summary

"This is a UFO! Flying Saucer" is a short animated film made against the backdrop of the occult boom of 1975. It left a strong impression on viewers by depicting the existence of UFOs and their mystique. The story unfolds effectively in a short time, and the production by the elite staff of Toei Animation at the time is not to be missed. This film can be enjoyed together with other popular works that were screened at the same time, and it is also a valuable piece for learning about Japanese animation culture in the 1970s. This is a must-watch for anyone interested in UFOs and the occult, or who wants to know the appeal of short animated films.