Let's Go on the X-Train - A Thorough Analysis of the Emotional Journey and the Charms of the Characters

"Let's Take the X-Train": A unique OVA that combines science fiction and comedy

■Overview of the work

"Let's Go on the X-Train" is an animated work released as an OVA in 1987. It is based on the novel of the same name by science fiction writer Yamano Koichi, and was directed by animation master Rintaro. Released by Pony Canyon, this work is a total of 9 episodes, about 50 minutes long, and depicts a unique world view where science fiction and comedy intersect.

■ Story

Just a few days before it is to be dismantled, the electric locomotive EF5861 suddenly disappears. The protagonist, Mizuhara Toru, happens to encounter the missing electric locomotive EF5861 on the platform of a subway station. Then, something strange happens to Toru's body. What is the mystery that connects the train and Toru?

■Explanation

"Let's Take the X-Train" is an animated film directed by Rintaro, based on the novel "Let's Take the X-Train" by sci-fi novelist Koichi Yamano. This sci-fi slapstick comedy, which revolves around a missing train, the X-Train, has been significantly reworked from the original story, so fans of the original can also enjoy it. In particular, Rintaro's unique direction and humor shine in this work.

■Cast

• Toru Nishihara/Yutaka Mizuhara
• Director Ochiai / Yoshito Yasuhara
• JR/Hasesanji
• Yoko/Chihoko Shigeta
• Drunkard / Keisuke Yamashita
• Leader of the Management Bureau / Masato Tsujimura

■ Main staff

• Director and Supervisor: Kagemasa Kozuki
• Producer: Toki Udagawa
• Director: Rintaro
• Original author: Koichi Yamano
• Music by Yosuke Yamashita
• Produced by Konami Industries, Ltd. and Kagemasa Kozuki
• Screenplay: Yoshio Urasawa, Rintaro
• Animation director: Yoshinori Kanemori
• Art Director: Katsushi Aoki
• Director of photography: Kinichi Ishikawa
• Assistant Director: Tatsuhiko Urahata
• Color designation: Michiyo Iriomote
• Setting Producer/Masao Maruyama
• Animation Production: Madhouse

■Subtitle

• CHAPTER1/Opening
• CHAPTER2/Love Hotel
• CHAPTER3/Yotsuya-Sanchome Station
• CHAPTER 4 / Tohru is captured
• CHAPTER 5 / Morse Code Minobu
• CHAPTER 6 / To Minobu
• CHAPTER 7 / Showdown with the X-Train
• CHAPTER 8 / The Final Battle
• CHAPTER 9/End Credits

■ Theme songs and music

TM「TAKE THE A TRAIN」
Vocals: Akiko Yano

■Detailed story and character analysis

The story of "Let's Go on the X-Train" begins when the protagonist, Mizuhara Toru, encounters the missing electric locomotive EF5861 at a subway station. This encounter triggers something strange to happen to Toru's body, and a mysterious connection is formed between him and the train. The story follows Toru's struggle to solve this mystery.

Tohru is an ordinary young man who suddenly finds himself caught up in an extraordinary situation. His growth and change are at the heart of the story, evoking sympathy from the audience. The characters surrounding Tohru are also unique, and Director Ochiai's humorous acting and JR's mysterious presence in particular add depth to the work.

■ Background of the production and the director's intentions

"Let's Take the X-Train" is a bold adaptation by director Rintaro of the original work by science fiction novelist Koichi Yamano. Director Rintaro has created a work that appeals to a wider audience by emphasizing the comedy elements while making use of the science fiction elements of the original work. His unique direction and humor are scattered throughout the work, and you can see many ingenious ideas to entertain the audience.

Additionally, Madhouse, the animation studio, used cutting-edge technology for the time to realistically depict train movements and cityscapes, creating a strong visual impact.

■Music and theme songs

The music was composed by Yosuke Yamashita, and its unique sound incorporating jazz elements enhances the atmosphere of the work. In particular, the theme song "TAKE THE A TRAIN", combined with Akiko Yano's singing voice, is an important element that symbolizes the theme of the work. This song evokes train travel and adventure, drawing the hearts of viewers.

■ Evaluation and impact

"Let's Take the X-Train" attracted attention as a work released in a new media format called OVA. The unique worldview where science fiction and comedy intersect, and the individualistic direction of director Rintaro, were highly praised by many viewers. Fans of the original work were also satisfied with the new interpretation and development, and were able to rediscover the charm of the work.

This work influenced subsequent anime works, and was a catalyst for expanding the possibilities of the OVA format in particular. It continues to be loved by many fans as a work themed around trains.

■ Recommendation points

"Let's Go on the X-Train" is a unique work that combines science fiction and comedy, and director Rintaro's unique direction and humor shine in this work. In particular, the story that unravels the mysterious connection between the train and the main character is captivating and captivating to the viewer. In addition, the unique characters and music that incorporates jazz elements also enhance the appeal of the work.

This work is recommended for people who like science fiction and comedies, people who are interested in director Rintaro's works, and people who like train-themed works. Also, people who have read the original novel will be surprised and impressed by the new interpretation and development.

■ Related works and recommendations

For those who enjoyed "Let's Take the X-Train," we also recommend the following works:

• Galaxy Express 999: A science fiction work by Leiji Matsumoto, it is a grand adventure story themed around trains. Director Rintaro was also involved in the work, so it has a common appeal.
• "Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind": A sci-fi fantasy work by Hayao Miyazaki, influenced by director Rintaro. It features deep themes and beautiful visuals.
• "AKIRA": A science fiction work by Katsuhiro Otomo, released as an OVA. Its cutting-edge animation techniques and deep storyline are its attractions.

Conclusion

"Let's Go on the X-Train" is a unique OVA where science fiction and comedy intersect, and director Rintaro's unique direction and humor shine in this work. The story unravels the mysterious connection between the train and the protagonist, which is appealing to the viewer. The unique characters and music that incorporates jazz elements also enhance the appeal of the work. To enjoy this work, we recommend it to people who like science fiction and comedy, people who are interested in director Rintaro's works, and people who like works with a train theme. Even those who have read the original novel will be surprised and moved by the new interpretation and development. Other related works that are recommended are "Galaxy Express 999", "Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind", and "AKIRA". Through these works, you will be able to enjoy the world of anime even more deeply.