Ghost Cat Anzu was, I think, the second best feature-length anime at Scotland Loves Anime during the Edinburgh week where it got its UK premiere.
In the anime 11-year old Karin is pretty much dumped by her dead beat dad at her grandfather’s temple. She looks sweet but is already an expert con and quite happy to use people.
The catch? The temple has a ghost cat. Anzu was a stray rescued by the kind priest, and Anzu forgot to die. As the cat ages, he seems to have slowly become more human, and the first time Karin and the audience see the tabby cat is when he speeds up on a moped and says hello.
People are pretty chill about a bipedal cat zooming around on a moped, although the police do complain due to the lack of license.
There’s also the God of Poverty kicking around, whom only Anzu can see, and of all the things haunting you do you do not want it to be the God of Poverty.
So, the scene is set – Karin versus Anzu.
Ghost Cat Anzu look and feel
Ghost Cat Anzu is a visually captivating anime film with a unique storybook feel. The style combines traditional 2D animation with soft, watercolour-like backgrounds, creating a gentle and inviting atmosphere.
The character designs evoke classic children’s book illustrations, showcasing expressive features that effectively convey emotions through simple lines and gestures. This quality is particularly evident in the supernatural elements, which stands in stark contrast to the ordinary human characters.
The film’s overall feel is one of warmth and whimsy, capturing the wonder and innocence of childhood. However, there are demons and some implicit demonish torture and one fight scene with some brutal moments in it.
The pacing is slow, allowing viewers to absorb the tranquil atmosphere and notice the subtle details of the animation. The soundtrack, featuring soft melodies and playful instrumentation, enhances the visuals with its lighthearted and whimsical tone.
While the animation may not be as technically impressive as some action-packed anime, its charm lies in its simplicity and heartfelt storytelling. Ghost Cat Anzu creates a visually appealing and emotionally resonant world that will delight viewers of all ages.
Plot and characters
Ghost Cat Anzu tells the story of Karin, a strong-willed young girl sent to live with her grandfather, a Buddhist monk, in rural Japan. There, she encounters Anzu, a mischievous and unpredictable feline spirit who becomes her reluctant guardian. The plot follows their evolving relationship as Karin adjusts to her new environment and learns to appreciate the beauty and traditions of the countryside. With his supernatural abilities and playful nature, Anzu guides Karin through a series of encounters and helps her connect with the local community.
The film features charming and well-defined characters. Karin begins as a rebellious city girl, but her interactions with Anzu and the villagers slowly soften her demeanour and reveal her vulnerability. Despite being a ghost, Anzu is a relatable and endearing character known for his dry wit and love of pranks. The supporting characters, including Karin’s grandfather and the quirky villagers, add depth and humour to the story.
While the plot may seem simplistic initially, Ghost Cat Anzu explores deeper themes of friendship, self-discovery, and respecting nature and tradition. The film’s gentle pacing and heartwarming moments create a soothing and contemplative atmosphere, making it a delightful watch for audiences of all ages.
Overall
I liked Ghost Cat Anzu from the moment the big goofball drove up on his bike and stared at Karin. I kept faith with it even while Karin was being a pain and Anzu waivered.
The few moments of violence are a mild concern, but I suspect it’s a good film that shows youngsters the value of friendship. It’s certainly a story that sneaks up on you and in all the good ways.
🍻 Sponsor: Cheers, Dusk Wave Arts and Barheim, the beer tower defence game, for enabling our Scotland Loves Anime trip.
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