The stop-motion animation series "My Melody & Kuromi," currently streaming on Netflix, achieved the remarkable feat of ranking second worldwide in the non-English series category in its first week of release. The series is directed by Tomoki Misato, a notable creator also known for the smash hit "PUI PUI Molcar" (2021).
"I wanted to create a work that goes beyond the limits of stop-motion by incorporating full-scale action, just like the anime works that are loved all over the world," said Misato, who had his sights set on the world from the beginning, and he is pleased with the response he has received. For viewers who have not yet seen the film, we asked him about the meticulous and spectacular production process.
Stop motion still has potential
My Melody runs a popular cake shop in Maryland. Meanwhile, Kuromi's Japanese sweets shop is struggling with customers. When Kuromi learns of a sweets contest, she plots a turnaround...
"My Melody & Kuromi" was made using a technique called stop motion, in which puppets are moved frame by frame. "We rely on image boards created in advance and share the shooting methods and other details with the staff as we go along, so in this world we are considered to be doing well if we can shoot four seconds' worth of footage per day. But the charm of this film is that it has a handmade warmth in the details," says Director Misato.
What's noteworthy is the bold movements that go beyond the boundaries of stop motion. From flying through the sky and fighting to car chase scenes, the flawless movements expand the world of the film.
The director also paid particular attention to making the characters resemble animals. "If you add too much emotion, they'll come off as human, and the unique appeal of animal-themed characters will be diluted. With 'PUI PUI Molcar,' I was particular about making them resemble guinea pigs, so that experience came in handy."
A world that goes beyond just "cute" with never-before-seen angles and direction
Since his debut work, Misato has been highly praised for his horror and dark worldview. "Fear is something unknown to the viewer, something that stimulates their curiosity. I feel that the satisfaction of discovering the unknown is what draws viewers in."
Misato's unique style, which was also influenced by the works of Tim Burton, is complemented by the taste of screenwriter Nemoto Muneko, and this film also brilliantly expresses the dark atmosphere that gradually erodes a peaceful world.
It also depicts the realities of modern society, such as the desire for recognition and the herd mentality that leads people to consume things in line with trends.
"The action scenes include homages to classic films such as 'The Fast and the Furious.' I'm confident that even people who think 'I have no connection to cuteness' will enjoy it."
Original work: Sanrio / Director: Tomoki Misato / Screenplay: Muneko Nemoto / Production: TORUKU from WIT STUDIO / Through the bond between My Melody and Kuromi, the series depicts the desires that swirl in the human heart and the meaning of kindness. Now streaming worldwide exclusively on Netflix.
