Aug 26 (News On Japan) - The trailer for the re-release of 'Birth of Kitaro: The Mystery of GeGeGe' has been unveiled, with the film set to hit theaters again on October 4. This new version delves deeper into the untold stories of the fathers, returning to the original vision imagined by the production team.
The film, which was originally released in November 2023, generated significant buzz due to its portrayal of the poignant meeting between Kitaro’s father, the former Medama-Oyaji, and Mizuki in the cursed village. The intense battle scenes and the emotional depth of their fate captivated audiences, resulting in box office earnings of 2.79 billion yen and a total of 1.94 million viewers as of August 6.
In 2024, the film won the Outstanding Animation of the Year award at the 47th Japan Academy Awards. Its impact extended beyond Japan, screening overseas and being nominated in the Contrechamp category at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France in June.
This re-release, titled "Birth of Kitaro: The Mystery of GeGeGe - True Edition," will feature 327 retakes from the previous version, along with re-dubbed audio, offering audiences an enhanced cinematic experience. The film will be screened nationwide starting October 4, Friday.
Set in a mysterious and cursed village, the film reveals the tragic events that shaped Kitaro's birth and destiny, weaving together themes of love, loss, and the supernatural.
As Medama-Oyaji and Mizuki face their intertwined fates, they must confront powerful forces that threaten not only their lives but the future of all yokai. The story is rich with intense battles, emotional struggles, and the timeless bond between a father and his son. Through breathtaking animation and a gripping narrative, Birth of Kitaro: The Mystery of GeGeGe unravels the enigmatic origins of Kitaro, providing fans with a deeper understanding of the iconic character's legacy and the enduring impact of Mizuki’s work.
Source: 東映映画チャンネル
