"White Elephant" review: A moving story and beautiful visuals

"White Elephant": A deep dive into the 1981 animated classic

The 1981 animated film "White Elephant" (Shiroizou) has captured the hearts of many audiences with its unique story and beautiful visuals. In this article, we will analyze the appeal of "White Elephant" from various angles, and provide a detailed explanation of the background of the film, the behind-the-scenes story of its production, and its subsequent influence. We will also introduce the recommended points of the film and related information, so please read to the end.

Overview

"White Elephant" is an anime film based on Hanaoka Daigaku's novel "Big Elephant". It was released in theaters in 1981, with only one episode. It was produced by Echo Company and Toei Educational Film Division, and directed by Okamoto Tadanari. The cast includes Kyoko Kishida and Daigo Kusano, and the main staff includes a number of impressive members, including Ken Nunomura, Reiyukai, Yoko Higashikawa, Akira Tagamibe, Tsutomu Iida, Naoko Aizawa, Ryohei Hirose, and Isamu Katto.

story

The story of "White Elephant" revolves around a white elephant that suddenly appears in a small village. The elephant is a mysterious presence to the villagers, and they are afraid of it at first, but gradually they are touched by its gentleness and strength, and they begin to cherish it. However, the elephant's presence threatens the peace of the village, and the villagers are troubled as to what to do with it. This story depicts the relationship between humans and nature, and the difficulties of coexistence.

Background

The original novel for "White Elephant," "Big Elephant," written by Hanaoka Daigaku, was published in the 1970s and highly praised as a work that explored the relationship between nature and humans. In adapting this novel into an animated film, director Okamoto Tadanari aimed to faithfully reproduce the theme of the original while adding a new perspective through visual expression. Echo Company and Toei Educational Film Division worked together on the production, using the latest technology of the time to achieve beautiful visuals.

Visuals and Music

The visuals of "White Elephant" are beautifully drawn using the technology of the time. In particular, the use of color and light to emphasize the presence of the white elephant leaves a strong impression on the audience. In addition, the music by Ryohei Hirose is also an important element in enhancing the atmosphere of the work, and various instruments are used to express the gentleness and strength of the elephant.

Cast and crew

The cast of "White Elephant" includes Kyoko Kishida and Daigo Kusano. Kyoko Kishida plays the role of a village girl, and Daigo Kusano plays the role of a village young man, and their acting skills add depth to the work. In addition, the main staff includes a number of impressive members, such as Ken Nunomura, Reiyukai, Yoko Higashikawa, Akira Tagamibe, Tsutomu Iida, Naoko Aizawa, Ryohei Hirose, and Isamu Katto, who supported the work in their own areas of expertise.

Influence of the work

"White Elephant" was highly praised when it was released, and was loved by many people as a work that depicts the relationship between nature and humans. It also had a major influence on later animated films, triggering an increase in works with themes of nature and the environment. Furthermore, director Tadanari Okamoto became famous overnight after this work, and went on to create many masterpieces.

Recommended points

"White Elephant" is a work that is attractive for its beautiful visuals and moving story. In particular, the theme of the relationship between nature and humans will resonate with many people even today. Also, do not miss the acting skills of Kyoko Kishida and Daigo Kusano. Furthermore, Ryohei Hirose's music is also an important element in enhancing the atmosphere of the work. It is a masterpiece that you should definitely see at least once.

Related information

Hanaoka Daigaku's novel "Big Elephant," which was the basis for "White Elephant," is still available in many bookstores. Director Okamoto Tadanari's other works are also interesting, so be sure to check them out. There are also many other animated films that deal with the relationship between nature and humans, so if you're interested, be sure to check them out too.

summary

"White Elephant" is an animated film released in 1981 that captivated many audiences with its beautiful visuals and moving story. Its theme of the relationship between nature and humans is sure to resonate with many people today. The work was also supported by the talents of the cast and staff, making it a beloved masterpiece. It is a film that everyone should definitely see at least once.