Review of Tokyo Godfathers (2003) by Vincent M — 03 Mar 2008

For years I've been convinced that animation is a medium which is not only under used but misused in an industry dominated by the likes of Disney and Dreamworks. There are certain exclusive qualities that allow animation to appeal to our senses in an entirely unique way.

Animation is limitless in it's boundaries and offers the possibility to express ideas and concepts in so many visceral ways. Tokyo Godfathers could be a very good live action picture but is crafted in such a charming way that we immediately know that it must be a cartoon.

Where it's numerous instances of chance and irony would be convenient tools to resolve plot issues and pacing in other films Tokyo Godfathers employs them in a such touching way that I caught myself smiling for the entire film.

Godfathers is also full of very funny scenes involving Geezer, Uncle Bag and Miyuki. One of my favorite scenes involving an Ambulance is brilliant in it's modesty sense of humor. Tokyo Godfathers also succeeded in moving me, which is something I haven't felt while viewing an animated feature length since Grave of Fireflies.

I must commend Columbia/Tristar for releasing this adorable and unique film in North America.