The appeal and reviews of "Potekko Babies" (2011): New possibilities for children's animation

Potato Babies (2011) - A story about lovable potatoes

Overview

The web anime "Potekko Babies", which was released on April 22, 2011, is an original anime work produced by Shinei Animation. Although it is only two minutes long, it is a work that is attractive for its lovable characters and humorous storyline. The original idea was by Shinichi Kuniyasu, the script was written by Yutaka Kainuma, and the storyboards and direction were done by Yosuke Suzuki. The music was composed by Tomoko Hyodo and the sound director was Yasuyuki Urakami.

■ Story

"Potecco Babies" is a story about potatoes, sweet potatoes, and Chinese yams. They work hard every day with the goal of "growing big and becoming delicious food!" However, standing in their way are their nemesis, the pesticide potatoes. The pesticide potatoes are potatoes that are destined to be disposed of because they exceed the legal limit for pesticides, and are jealous of the potential of the Poteccos, so they try to trap them.

While you might think a fierce battle will unfold, the relationship between Potecco and the pesticide-treated potatoes is strangely similar to that of a game. The story progresses in a light-hearted and comical way, with a carefree atmosphere throughout. Will the day come when the Poteccos can be safely shipped off as food ingredients? Until that day comes, they live happily, putting in moderate effort.

■ Characters

Potecco Babies characters are characterized by their unique and adorable designs. The main characters are introduced below.

Naga

Voice actor: Rikako Aikawa

A character made from yam, he is the leader of the Poteccos. He is calm and reliable, but sometimes shows a playful side.

Potatoes

Voice actor: Etsuko Kozakura

He is a potato character with a slightly clumsy personality. He often hangs out with his friend named Arpon.

Satsuma

Voice actor: Ai Nonaka

He is a sweet potato character who hangs out with his friend named Muchin. He has a bright and lively personality and is the mood maker for Potecco and the others.

father

Voice actor: Katsumi Suzuki

He acts as a father figure to the Poteccos, watching over them with warmth and sometimes giving them advice.

■ Production staff

Many talented staff members are involved in the production of "Potekko Babies." The main staff members are introduced below.

Original story: Shinichi Kuniyasu

Shinichi Kuniyasu is a creator who has worked on the original ideas for many popular anime works. His unique imagination shines through in "Potekko Babies."

Screenplay: Yutaka Kainuma

Yutaka Kainuma is a screenwriter who skillfully develops a story in a short time. In "Potekko Babies," his humorous script livens up the story.

Storyboard and direction: Suzuki Yosuke

Yosuke Suzuki is in charge of storyboards and direction, and is responsible for the visual aspects of the work. His sensibility is what creates the adorable world of Potecco and the other characters.

Original illustration: Daizo Iwanaga

Daizo Iwanaga is the original artist who meticulously depicts the movements of the characters. His skills allow the Potecco characters' expressions and movements to be expressed realistically.

Authoring: Hisashi Ariizumi

Hisashi Ariizumi is in charge of authoring and is responsible for improving the quality of the work. His skills enhance the completeness of the work.

Music: Tomoko Hyodo

Tomoko Hyodo is in charge of the music that enhances the atmosphere of the work. Her music enriches the world of Potecco and friends.

Sound Director: Yasuyuki Urakami

Yasuyuki Urakami is the sound director and is in charge of the sound aspects of the work. His skills allow the character voices and sound effects to be expressed realistically.

■ Evaluation and impressions

Although "Potekko Babies" is a short film, it is attractive for its lovable characters and humorous story. You will empathize with the Poteko's goal of "growing big and becoming a delicious food ingredient!" and will want to cheer on their efforts and growth. The mysterious relationship with the pesticide-free potatoes also adds to the appeal of the film.

The visual aspects of the work are also fun to watch, with detailed character designs and movements. The music and sound also play a role in enhancing the atmosphere of the work. Overall, the work has a laid-back atmosphere, and you will find it soothing to watch.

However, because the film is only two minutes long, some people may find the story development a little lacking. Some also say that the battle against the pesticide-treated potatoes is like a game and lacks intensity. However, these are all part of the charm of "Potecco Babies," and it can be said that the film offers the maximum amount of entertainment in a short time frame.

■ Recommendation points

"Poteco Babies" is recommended for the following people:

1. People seeking healing

The adorable characters of Potecco and the laid-back story will soothe you when you watch it. Recommended for those who want to take a break from their busy daily lives and relax.

2. People who want to have fun in a short amount of time

It's only 2 minutes long, so even busy people can enjoy it casually. It's also recommended to watch it during your commute to work or school.

3. People who enjoy humor

The humorous behavior of the Poteccos and their strange relationship with the pesticide-treated potatoes will surely bring a smile to your face. Recommended for those who enjoy humor.

4. People who want to support the growth of characters

You will empathize with Potecco and his friends' goal of "growing into delicious food!" and want to root for their efforts and growth. Recommended for those who want to root for the characters' growth.

■ Related works

Like "Potekko Babies," other web anime produced by Shin-Ei Animation include the following titles:

1. "Crayon Shin-chan"

"Crayon Shin-chan" is a popular anime series with Nohara Shinnosuke as the main character. It is a work that is attractive for its humorous story and unique characters. Like "Potekko Babies", it is a work produced by Shin-Ei Animation.

2. "Doraemon"

"Doraemon" is a popular anime series that depicts the adventures of Doraemon, a robot cat from the future, and Nobita. The story is full of humor and emotion, making it an appealing work. Like "Potekko Babies", it is a work produced by Shinei Animation.

■ Summary

"Potekko Babies" is a web animation with adorable characters and a humorous story. You will empathize with the Poteccos' goal of "growing big and becoming a delicious ingredient!" and will want to cheer on their efforts and growth. The mysterious relationship with the pesticide-treated potatoes also adds to the appeal of the work. Although it is only two minutes long, it is a work that provides maximum entertainment. This work is recommended for those who are looking for healing, those who want to enjoy it in a short amount of time, those who want to enjoy humor, and those who want to support the growth of the characters.