"What is Happiness?" Review: An anime filled with moving tears and smiles

"What is Happiness?" - A moving and thought-provoking OVA

The original video animation "What is Happiness?", released on July 9, 1991, continues to be loved by many viewers for its unique theme and profound message. This work was created through the unusual combination of an original story by Ryuho Okawa and production by Gakken. In a short episode consisting of three episodes, it asks essential questions about life and the theme of what happiness is.

Overview

"What is Happiness?" was released in the form of an OVA. OVA refers to anime works that are sold on media such as video and DVD, rather than as a TV series. This work was released on July 9, 1991, and is a compact structure of three episodes. The original story was written by Ryuho Okawa, and the production was done by Gakken.

story

"What is Happiness?" is a story about a boy who grows through his encounters with various people and experiences, asking himself the question, "What is happiness?" Each episode examines the concept of happiness from a different perspective, and is packed with deeply moving and thought-provoking content for the viewer.

The first episode begins with the protagonist hanging out with his friends at school. One of his friends asks, "What is happiness?" This question marks the beginning of the story, and the protagonist sets out on a journey in search of the answer. In the second episode, the protagonist meets various people and, by listening to their thoughts about life and happiness, begins to think deeply about his own happiness. Then, in the third episode, the protagonist finds his own happiness and shows how much he has grown.

character

The protagonist, a boy, is characterized by his pure and curious personality. He seriously considers the question, "What is happiness?" and grows as he meets various people. His story of growth deeply moves the viewer.

The various characters encountered in the story are also fascinating. For example, people from diverse backgrounds, such as the elderly, children, and working adults, appear, and each talks about their own definition of happiness. Through these characters, viewers can feel the diversity and depth of happiness.

Theme and Message

The greatest appeal of "What is Happiness?" is its theme and message. The question "What is happiness?" is a universal theme that everyone has thought about at least once. This work delves deeply into this question, making the viewer think.

Each episode is told from the perspective of people with different definitions and values ​​of happiness. For example, various forms of happiness are depicted, such as those who value time with family, those who find meaning in their work, and those who live freely in nature. Through these portrayals, viewers are given an opportunity to reconsider their own definition of happiness.

This work also depicts the hardships and setbacks that occur in the process of pursuing happiness. The scenes in which the protagonist faces difficulties during his journey and his own weaknesses resonate with the audience. Through these depictions, the work conveys that effort and courage are necessary to achieve happiness.

Background and influences

"What is Happiness?" was produced based on the original work by Ryuho Okawa. Ryuho Okawa is the founder of the religious organization "Happy Science" and has conveyed messages about happiness to people through his many books. This work was also produced as part of that effort.

Gakken, the company in charge of production, is known as a company that handles educational publications and media. It is rare for Gakken to be involved in anime production, so this work can be considered a new challenge for Gakken. The fusion of Gakken's educational perspective and Ryuho Okawa's philosophical perspective has resulted in a work with a deep message.

This work has been well received by many viewers since its release, and has been especially popular among young people and families. It is also often shown in schools and educational institutions, and has been used as an educational tool about happiness. It has had a great influence, providing an opportunity for many people to think about happiness.

Animation and Music

The animation of "What is Happiness?" is characterized by its simple yet beautiful drawings. The individuality of the various characters is conveyed through the protagonist's facial expressions and movements. The depiction of the backgrounds and scenery is also beautiful, and has the power to draw the viewer into the world of the story.

The music also adds to the appeal of this work. The background music gently resonates in accordance with the atmosphere of the story, stirring the emotions of the viewer. The theme song is also memorable, featuring beautiful lyrics with messages about happiness. These pieces of music play a role in further deepening the emotional impact of the story.

Ratings and Recommendations

"What is Happiness?" has been highly praised by many viewers. It continues to be loved by many people, especially for its profound themes and moving storyline. It has also been praised from an educational perspective, and is recommended for viewing at school and at home.

The reasons why I recommend this work are as follows:

• Deep theme and message : The show delves deeply into the universal theme of what happiness is, making viewers think. It gives viewers an opportunity to think about their own happiness.
• A moving story : The protagonist's growth story and encounters with various characters are moving. Viewers will be drawn into the story and may even shed tears.
• Educational value : Suitable for viewing in schools and at home, it can be used as an educational tool about happiness. Recommended for a wide range of audiences, from children to adults.
• Beautiful animation and music : The simple yet beautiful artwork and moving music enhance the story. This is a work that is both visually and aurally satisfying.

"What is Happiness?" is a work that makes you think deeply about happiness, and is an OVA that I can recommend to many people. I hope you will think about your own happiness through this work.