Film Rec - Tokyo Godfathers

[karadinart]

Since watching Millenium Actress, Satoshi Kon has become one of my favourite directors, and I don't mean just in anime. Tokyo Godfathers in parts reminded me of screwball comedies of the 1930's and 40's with it's eccentric characters and incredible plot twists, but throughout I am reminded that the story (of a baby discovered by three homeless people) could happen nowhere but Tokyo, as its themes are particularly Japanese. The sense of duty to one's family and what creates a family (as adoption has been common for centuries). Of course the animation is breathtaking, but the viewer isn't reminded of it in a static way with pretty pictures but constant motion. The characters, in particular the onnagata (entertainer specializing in female roles) stand out as fully realized individuals that remain in your memory long after the film has ended. And I burst out laughing at a particular song that any Westerner would know.