Big first graders and small second graders: A thorough analysis of the touching story that arises from an unexpected pairing

"Big First Grader and Little Second Grader" - The charm of a heartwarming short animation

The Big First Grader and the Little Second Grader is a short animated film released in 2014. It is based on a picture book by Furuta Ashihi and was produced by A-1 Pictures. It was released in theaters on March 1, 2014. It was distributed by Toho and Kadokawa and directed by Watanabe Ayumu. The 25-minute long film has a self-contained story in one episode. Copyright © Furuta Ashihi, Kaiseisha/A-1 Pictures/Agency for Cultural Affairs Anime Mirai 2014.

story

As the name suggests, the story of "Big First Graders and Small Second Graders" centers around a big boy in the first grade and a small girl in the second grade. The story of their meeting and friendship is full of heartwarming episodes. The first grade boy is a little intimidated by the attention he receives from others due to his large size. On the other hand, the second grade girl is small but kind-hearted and loved by those around her. The two meet by chance, and the story depicts how they deepen their friendship while understanding each other's differences.

The story is set in a school and its surrounding areas. The relationship between the two gradually deepens as they go through various events that occur in their school life. A particularly memorable scene shows the two playing together, acknowledging and respecting each other's differences. In this scene, you can feel the depth of their friendship, which is shown more in actions than words. There are also many scenes in which the two work together to solve problems, depicting the growth of children and the beauty of friendship.

character

One of the main characters is a first-grader named Takashi. He is big and attracts a lot of attention from those around him, so he feels a little intimidated. However, his kind-hearted and caring personality is portrayed throughout the story. When Takashi meets a second-grader girl, he is touched by her small body and big heart, and is given the opportunity to reexamine his own value.

The other main character is a second-grader named "Miki." Although she is small, she is kind-hearted and loved by the people around her. When Miki meets Takashi, she is touched by his large body and kind heart, which gives her an opportunity to reexamine her own value. Miki's actions and words have an impact not only on Takashi, but also on the people around her, warming the hearts of many people.

Animation and Music

The animation of "Big First Grader and Little Second Grader" is a work that highlights the high technical ability of A-1 Pictures. The character design faithfully reproduces the atmosphere of the original picture book, while adding the movements and expressions that are unique to animation to create even more appealing characters. The backgrounds and colors are also beautiful, vividly expressing the world of children.

Music is also an important element that enhances the appeal of this work. The background music gently resonates in sync with the story's development, drawing the viewer in. In particular, the music in the scene where Takashi and Miki play together conveys the depth of their friendship, creating a heartwarming atmosphere. The ending theme is also memorable, helping to leave an impression on the viewer's mind.

Recognition and Awards

"Big First Grader and Little Second Grader" was highly praised when it was released. In particular, as an animation for children, it was highly praised for its educational value. The themes of friendship and growth depicted throughout the story touched not only children, but adults as well. The animation techniques and music were also highly praised, and the film garnered support from many viewers.

This work was produced as part of the Agency for Cultural Affairs' Anime Mirai 2014 project, and has been highly praised both in Japan and overseas. Anime Mirai is a project aimed at nurturing young animators, and this work was produced as part of that project. Therefore, it has attracted attention as a work that highlights the new talents of young animators.

Recommendations and how to watch

"Big First Grader and Little Second Grader" is not just an animation for children, but a work that the whole family can enjoy. The themes of friendship and growth will move not only children but also adults. In addition, the animation technique and music have been highly praised, making it a work that can be enjoyed both visually and aurally.

This film was released in theaters, on DVD and Blu-ray, and is now available on online streaming services. It's a great movie to watch with your family, as it will teach kids about friendship and growth, and be a heartwarming read for adults too.

Related works and original works

The original version of "Big First Grader and Little Second Grader" is a picture book by Furuta Ashihi. Furuta Ashihi is known as a children's picture book author, and many of his works are beloved. This work in particular has been highly praised for its depiction of children's friendship and growth. The original picture book is also a great way to fully experience the charm of the story, so be sure to read it.

A-1 Pictures has also produced many other popular animations, including children's animations such as "Sword Art Online" and "Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai." These works also depict themes of friendship and growth, so be sure to check them out.

summary

"Big First Grader and Little Second Grader" is a heartwarming short animated film. The story, which depicts themes of friendship and growth, will move not only children but also adults. The animation techniques and music have also been highly praised, making it a work that can be enjoyed visually and aurally. Please watch it with your family and spend a heartwarming time together.