Do you want to watch a movie that has breathtaking animation and a heart wrenching story then do I have an idea for you? The Boy and the Beast (Bakemono no Ko) originally released in Japanese audiences in July 2015, and with the help of Funimation studios, has finally landed with American audiences March 4, 2016. Mamoru Hosoda, known for his most recent project (Wolf Children), takes the reigns and creates a story that both children and adults can enjoy.
Story: Little nine year-old Ren, has nowhere to go after the untimely death of his mother, along with the disappearance of his father, and his constant refusal to live with his guardians he takes to Shibuya roaming the streets with no plan on how to survive. In comes the beast named Kumatetsu. Kumatetsu is in competition with another beast for the role of Lord, however Kumatetsu is arrogant, and can’t keep an disciple to save his life.
So they both happen to chance by each other in the human world, and he tells Ren to come with him. Of course Ren refuses at first, but then eventually finds Kumatetsu and becomes his pupil thus earning the name Kyuta, which means nine in Japanese. Throughout their time training together, both Kuma and Kyuta, while they bicker at times, grow to understand one another and develop a relationship to that of father and a son.
Review: I went to watch this movie, with a very limited showing and a couple of my friends who have never watched an anime, let alone subbed. At first glance, I thought this was going to be your ordinary, regular human meets mythical character and things stay happily ever after. However, when the story progresses you the viewer will be thrown through a chaos of emotions ranging from happiness, to tear wrenching sadness, and then of course undeniable rage. Yet, the story itself will come full circle and you will be happy with the outcome. Maybe even have a discussion about the character development at the end of the movie. I do advise that if you loved Wolf Children, you will enjoy this movie.
