Taro the Dragon Boy

When you are 3 years old and something touches you so deep, just like this anime did to me, you NEVER EVER forget it. You might forget the name of the characters, or the exact plot but it never goes, all the pictures stay inside (especially when these pictures are that impressing). That happened to me with this movie. I was so moved when I discovered it again!

All these colors, the way the characters were drawn, the plot of course, EVERYTHING about this anime is perfect! And of course it is not only for kids or anime fans, this is a movie everyone must see. It is a movie about hope, and love and what someone can do for the person he loves the most and how many barriers he can overcome -wether he is as strong as Taro, or not. ;P

This is a movie that will wake the child inside you but this doesn't mean it is childish. On the contrary, it is a very mature movie and a masterpiece indeed!!!!

I saw this last night, and I was deeply, deeply moved. This film is pure gold, a drink of clear water after a day in the sun. This is a story of hope, love, sacrifice, and the true meaning of selflessness. This film does not need to resort to preachy-ness, its message is shown through the deeds of Taro and what he inspires others to do for themselves. The art style is very distinctive, and beautiful. The landscapes feel very real, and the characters fit well within their world. The music and songs are lovingly crafted, and the story will leave you smiling through tears. This was an incredible work of love, and it deserves to be seen again and again. There is some slight nudity, but only once, and nothing sexual. I can't praise this one highly enough. See it for yourself, and you will understand.

Although this film was released on home video in the U.S. in 1984 as "Taro the Dragon Boy" (five years after it appeared in Japanese theaters), not many people seem to remember it, which is a shame, as it is one of the best anime films I've ever seen. I rented the English-dubbed version, helmed by the legendary Peter Fernandez (also worked on the English dubs of "Speed Racer" and "Superbook"), on video from my video store on several occasions as a child, and was awestruck. Taro is a remarkable young man - he possesses immense strength and an enormous appetite, but he also has a heart of gold, and the object of his quest is to find his mother who was changed into a dragon many years ago. (One scene which made a big impression on me is the scene in which Taro and the villagers are feasting after Taro defeated a demon who was threatening the village, and Taro can't enjoy the celebration because he keeps thinking of the folks back in his home village who have nothing to eat. That shows what a pure, good heart he has.) This film holds up very well even to this day. The animation is remarkably fluid given that the film is now over a quarter-century old, and the music is also very well-done. There are even vocal songs, which were dubbed into English for the U.S. release, and they're also pretty good, even in English. The dubbed voices are also quite good, as I recall. The ending will absolutely have you in tears. If you can find a used copy of this film on VHS, by all means pick it up. It's a real classic. (Incidentally, despite the Japanese title, "Tatsu no ko Taro," this animation was NOT produced by Tatsunoko Production, but by Toei Animation, which later became internationally famous for "Dragonball," "Sailor Moon," and "One Piece.")

"Taro the Dragon Boy" is a 1979 Japanese animated film that tells the story of a young boy named Taro who embarks on a quest to save his mother from a curse that has transformed her into a dragon.

Strengths: * Visually Stunning: The film is renowned for its beautiful and unique animation style, drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese art forms. The backgrounds are particularly striking, with rich colors and detailed landscapes.

* Heartwarming Story: "Taro the Dragon Boy" is a heartwarming tale of courage, perseverance, and the power of love. Taro's journey is filled with challenges and obstacles, but he never gives up on his quest to save his mother.

* Cultural Significance: The film offers a glimpse into Japanese folklore and mythology, featuring mythical creatures and traditional storytelling elements.

Weaknesses: * Pacing: Some viewers may find the pacing to be uneven, with certain scenes feeling slower than others.

* Dated Animation: While the animation style is unique, it may not appeal to all modern audiences accustomed to more contemporary animation techniques.

* Limited Availability: The film is not as widely available as some other classic anime titles, making it harder to find and watch.

Overall: "Taro the Dragon Boy" is a visually stunning and heartwarming film that is a valuable addition to the history of Japanese animation. While it may not be as well-known as some of Studio Ghibli's works, it offers a unique and captivating cinematic experience.

Who will enjoy it?

* Fans of classic anime * Viewers who appreciate beautiful animation and storytelling * Those interested in Japanese folklore and mythology Who might not enjoy it?

* Viewers who prefer fast-paced action or contemporary animation styles * Those seeking a more modern or complex story * Anyone who is not interested in Japanese culture or mythology.

Taro the Dragon Boy is an animated movie taken place in ancient times. Back when Zen art was one of the few art hobbies in Japan and rice was like gold to the people.

In a small village, lived Taro a lazy boy who doesn't do work or help his own grandmother. He likes to eat and wrestle with the animals in the woods. One day he wrestles with the long nose wizard who granted him the strength of a hundred men. Which made Taro thrilled, but he was told to only use it to help others in need. Taro accepted that, and now becomes a better help to others around him.

One day Taro wondered about the scales on the side of his body. His grandmother tells him that he's not like the other boys because,Taro was born half dragon. His mother was cursed as a dragon when giving birth she had to live North because of her image of a dragon.

Taro now knows what he must do is go on a quest to find his mother. And he will help others in need and make new friends on the way too.

Taro the Dragon Boy is something different for an old school anime. It's very well animated and has a great use of Zen like backgrounds. Even though the original trailer said it's based off of a kids story. There are plenty of inappropriate parts in the movie. Including small amounts of violence and brief nudity of a boy's pelvis and a woman's breasts.

Just to know, the rating system in Japan is different from here. Cause a film like this would receive PG-13 in America. Since I recommend this film for teens or those who are mature enough to see brief nudity in a movie. I suggest watching it yourself and see if it's OK to let a kid watch it.

Other than that I highly recommend it to all time anime lovers.