Miss Hokusai

Miss Hokusai is an enchanting 2015 animated film, set in the culturally rich era of 19th-century Edo, the historical name for Tokyo. The film beautifully intertwines historical elements with fantasy, presenting a unique exploration of vibrant characters and their artistic passions.

The film is based on the manga series "Sarusuberi" by Hinako Sugiura, exploring the life of the renowned ukiyo-e painter Katsushika Hokusai from an unusual perspective—that of his artistically gifted yet overlooked daughter, Katsushika O-Ei. In the titular role of Miss Hokusai, Anne Watanabe brings an engaging combination of determination and tenderness that brings depth to O-Ei's character.

Yutaka Matsushige gives an equally commendable performance as Hokusai, portraying the world-renowned artist as a comically disheveled and indifferent father, a man who pours his life into his art to the apparent neglect of all else. Despite the lack of focus on their relationship, the film subtly explores the complex father-daughter dynamics, highlighting O-Ei's constant struggles to emerge from her father's shadow while carving her path in the art world.

Additionally, the voice acting talents of Erica Lindbeck inject a touch of vulnerability and warmth into the characters, deepening the emotional aspects of the narrative. Together, the cast brings to life a colorful spectrum of characters, bringing the vibrant world of 19th-century Edo to life.

The film is directed by Keiichi Hara, who masterfully combines the elements of humor, drama, and fantasy to narrate the story of O-Ei's life and challenges. The narrative is episodic rather than linear, reflecting the format of the original manga series. Each episode provides glimpses into O-Ei's professional life, personal struggles, and encounters with various fascinating characters around Edo.

As the story progresses, it becomes evident that O-Ei is a talented artist in her right. However, she is repeatedly forced to hide behind her father's name due to the societal norms of Edo era, where female artists went unrecognized. This gender-based struggle to gain recognition forms an integral part of the film's thematic concerns and is subtly commented upon throughout the narrative.

Miss Hokusai is also a visual treat, with its stunning animation and extraordinary attention to detail. The film masterfully replicates the traditional Japanese woodblock print aesthetic in animated form, reflecting its reverence for its source material. Every frame of the film is gorgeously rendered to replicate classic ukiyo-e art, immersing the viewer in the beautiful world of Edo.

The historical setting forms a rich tapestry in the background of the narrative. The film offers glimpses into the day-to-day life of 19th-century Edo, capturing the rich cultural milieu and portraying the rapid influx of Western influences that characterised the era.

Additionally, the film introduces a touch of mysticism and fantasy to the narrative. The artists in Miss Hokusai are not just creators, but mediums through which spirits interact with the world. For instance, O-Ei's younger sister, O-Nao, is blind and often interacts with spirits in beautiful, fantastical sequences that provide some of the film's most emotionally moving moments.

Accompanying the stunning visuals is the exceptional soundtrack, which enhances the mood of the film. The R&B audio tracks by the band "Sheena Ringo" stand out, resonating with the modernity that underlies the film's traditional backdrop. This fusion of contemporary music with classical art forms enhances the film's exploration of Japan's cultural identity, walking the line between tradition and modernity.

In conclusion, Miss Hokusai is an animated masterpiece that takes the viewers through the life and struggles of a female artist in the patriarchal society of the 19th-century Edo. The film succeeds in bringing a fresh perspective to the artistic world of Hokusai and beautifully captures the essence of ukiyo-e art. It's an enchanting blend of historical drama, coming-of-age tale, and captivating visual storytelling that leaves a lasting impression.