The appeal and reputation of "Miss Hokusai": A deep look into the story of Hokusai's daughter

The appeal and evaluation of "Miss Hokusai"

Miss Hokusai is a 2015 animated film that follows the life of Edo-period ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai and his daughter Oei. It is based on the manga of the same name by Hinako Sugiura and is directed by Keiichi Hara, known for From Up on Poppy Hill and Spirited Away. The film was produced by Production IG and distributed by Tokyo Theatres. It was released on May 9, 2015, and is a one-episode film with a length of 93 minutes.

story

Miss Hokusai is set in Edo-period Japan and is told from the perspective of Hokusai Katsushika's daughter, Oei. Oei works as her father's assistant while honing her own talent for painting. The story follows her daily life and her interactions with her family, depicting her growth and Hokusai Katsushika's passion for art. The story also details the social situation and culture of the time, making it a work that combines visual beauty with historical context.

character

Oei (voiced by Sakura Ando)

The daughter of Katsushika Hokusai, she works as her father's assistant while pursuing her own talent for painting. The story progresses from her perspective, depicting her growth and her relationship with Katsushika Hokusai.

Katsushika Hokusai (voiced by Danshun Tatekawa)

A famous ukiyo-e artist from the Edo period and Oei's father, he is a character with a passion for art and a strictness that is depicted in his work and life.

Oei's younger sister, Ochou (voiced by Mitsuki Takahata)

Oei's younger sister, a character who lives a bright life despite being visually impaired. Her presence plays an important role in deepening the bond between the family.

Animation and Art

The visuals of "Miss Hokusai" are characterized by beautiful animation that realistically recreates Japan during the Edo period. Production IG's technical capabilities are fully demonstrated, recreating the colors and brushstrokes of ukiyo-e in great detail. The background art is also incredibly beautiful, realistically depicting the scenery and life of the time. In particular, the scenes based on the works of Katsushika Hokusai have a strong visual impact and the power to draw the audience in.

music

The film's music was composed by Joe Hisaishi, a film composer. His beautiful melodies further enhance the atmosphere of the Edo period. In particular, the orchestra's performance, which focuses on piano and string instruments, deeply expresses the emotions of the story. Traditional Japanese instruments are also used effectively, creating music that evokes the era.

Recognition and Awards

Miss Hokusai has received high praise both in Japan and abroad. It has been particularly praised for the beauty of its animation and the ingenuity of its storytelling, winning awards at many film festivals. For example, it won the Cristal Award in the feature film category at the Annecy International Animated Film Festival and was also screened at the Cannes Film Festival. It has also received high praise from many critics in Japan and performed well at the box office.

Recommended points

"Miss Hokusai" can be recommended for the following reasons:

1. **Visual Beauty**

The beautifully animated film, which realistically recreates Edo-period Japan, is a visual treat, especially the scenes inspired by the works of Katsushika Hokusai.

2. **Historical Background**

The social conditions and culture of the Edo period are depicted in detail, making it enjoyable for history buffs as well. It's a great opportunity to experience the world of ukiyo-e.

3. **Character Development**

The story depicts Oei's growth and her bond with her family, and the story unfolds in a moving way. In particular, the relationship between Oei and Katsushika Hokusai is not to be missed.

4. **The beauty of music**

Joe Hisaishi's beautiful music complements the story and provides an emotionally rich experience, with effective use of traditional Japanese instruments.

Related works and recommendations

If you enjoyed "Miss Hokusai," we also recommend the following works:

1. **Spirited Away**

Another Studio Ghibli masterpiece directed by Keiichi Hara, it features beautiful animation and a moving story.

2. **From Up on Poppy Hill**

A coming-of-age film directed by Keiichi Hara. Enjoy beautiful visuals and a moving story.

3. **The Wind Rises**

A Studio Ghibli production, it features historical settings and beautiful animation, and tells the story of the life of airplane designer Jiro Horikoshi.

4. **Wolf Children: Ame and Yuki**

Directed by Mamoru Hosoda, this moving story depicts family ties and growth, and is appealing with its beautiful animation and deep storyline.

summary

Miss Hokusai is a beautifully animated film set in Edo-period Japan. This work, which depicts the life of Katsushika Hokusai and his daughter Oei, has many appealing aspects, including beautiful visuals, historical background, character development, and beautiful music. The film, which combines director Keiichi Hara's skillful storytelling with the technical capabilities of Production IG, has received high praise both at home and abroad. Highly recommended for history buffs, animation fans, and those looking for a moving story. Enjoying the film alongside other related works will give you an even deeper experience.