While adding final touches to “Millennium Actress,” a producer questioned Satoshi Kon if has another film on the horizon. This prompt him to write a basic premise. Submits his idea to production company, Madhouse. Once they accepted the idea, Satoshi brainstorm plot elements with Wolf’s Rain creator, Keiko Nobumoto. Their story further centers on three homeless people who discover a newborn baby while dumpster diving. The squabbling trio embark on an adventure to search for the baby’s parents’ whereabouts. The Plot’s none other than “Tokyo Godfathers.”
Released in 2003, (same year Elf and Bad Santa came out) it received praise from critics and movie goers alike. Seventeen Years Later, GKIDS licensed an English Dub version on 4K. Anyway, it’s officially the holiday season. Now it’s a good time to Christmas movies. I picked Tokyo Godfathers to get into the Christmas spirit.
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS whatsoever. I’m giving some of you a chance to see this gem.
Warm & Cold Elements
Warm: Voice Actors all did an excellent job for their respective performances.
Crispin Freeman (Alucard from Hellsing) voices Ishida. He plays an important role.
Satoshi Kon did a superb job directing. He also co-wrote the script with Keiko Nobumoto.
Satoshi mentioned Tokyo Godfathers was influenced by a John Wayne movie titled, “3 Godfathers.” It follows a similar premise with a trio taking care of a baby.
Animation brings various elements to life such as character models, lighting, fluid movement and depiction of poverty in Japan.
Funny Moments managed to give me a chuckle. Ten times funnier than BloggedByEric’s favorite movie from 1997. *cough* “Home Alone 3!” *cough*
Chemistry between Gin, Hana & Miyuki serves as the main highlight. Despite their bickering, they have a purpose to find the baby’s parents.
Pacing didn’t feel like a slow burn. I was hooked since the beginning.
Prior to becoming homeless, we learn about the trio’s lives. They used to live in a stable environment. Courtesy of Character Development, they have a soft spot for one another and care for the baby’s wellbeing.
Hana’s depiction as a transgender woman was written carefully. She’s not a horrendous caricature like the former Bud Light spokesperson. *cough* Dylan Mulvaney! *cough* If Satoshi were alive today, he would’ve facepalmed.
The Tone balances seriousness and comedy.
Primary Themes are Family, Poverty, Homelessness, Miracles & Redemption. Each one’s handled carefully.
A few twists and turns will make you gasp.
Cold: I couldn’t find nothing wrong. I’m giving Satoshi & Keiko an Extra Point for making a unique Christmas film as possible.
The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!
Tokyo Godfathers is perhaps the best anime Christmas film of all time. It’s a darn shame Satoshi Kon & Keiko Nobumoto are no longer with us. Had they stay longer, they would’ve made more films and TV shows. If you’re looking for an unconventional Christmas film, Tokyo Godfathers is a must-see during the holiday season. Buy a physical copy of GKIDS’ English Dub. Don’t forget to check out Satoshi’s other works, “Perfect Blue,” Paranoia Agent” & “Paprika.” They’re really good.
Rest in Peace, Satoshi Kon & Keiko Nobumoto. Your legacies will never be forgotten.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 