This documentary movie originally aired on Japan's NHK TV network, and covers the life and career of legendary animator Yasuo Otsuka. Many milestones of anime history are covered, starting with the Toei Doga feature films, continuing to Lupin the 3rd, Future Boy Conan, The Castle of Cagliostro and Jarinko Chie. As Otsuka-san was also an "elder brother" to Isao Takahata and Hayao Miyazaki, their histories intertwine, and you will find yourself learning about their careers before the founding of Studio Ghibli.
This DVD includes English subtitles for the feature, which is always welcome for overseas fans. There are one or two extras on the disc which do not include subs, but this is common practice.
Joy in Motion was released on the Ghibli ga Ippai label, so it should be easy to negotiate the American distribution rights with NHK. It's not only a great movie about anime history, but also the craft of animation itself. Otsuka retired from animating in the 1980s to become a teacher at the Telecom studio, where he proved to be equally gifted as a mentor to future generations. He spreads his love of drawing and animation, and his students feel genuine excitement at seeing their drawings come to live. Joy in Motion, indeed.
This movie should become standard viewing in every high school in the world. It is an essential viewing for all who are fascinated by animation and wonder, could I do that? The answer is yes, yes you can. All you need is a pencil and a bit of imagination.
C'mon, GKIDS, pick up this title.
Can you think of any other Studio Ghibli library titles that you would like to see released in the West? Share in the comments below.
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