A new clip from the upcoming anime film The Obsessed, known in Japan as Toritsukareotoko, has been released, showcasing the vibrant “Giuseppe’s Theme.” The upbeat song is performed by Masaya Sano of the male idol unit Ae! Group, who also lends his voice to the film’s titular protagonist, Giuseppe. The film is slated for a Japanese release on November 7, following a special screening at the Tokyo International Film Festival, which commences on October 27.
Diving into Giuseppe’s World with His Signature Theme
The recently unveiled clip provides an exciting glimpse into the eclectic pursuits that define Giuseppe, a character known for his boundless enthusiasm and tendency to jump from one obsession to another. “Giuseppe’s Theme” captures this essence perfectly, serving as an energetic soundtrack to his various endeavors, from amateur detective work and collecting sunglasses to studying foreign languages and photography.
Masaya Sano, the voice actor for Giuseppe, performed the theme song, marking it as the initial recording session for the project. Sano mentioned that this process involved considerable “trial and error” to accurately capture Giuseppe’s unique voice and personality. The song’s cheerful and optimistic melody offers a contrast to the underlying melancholic themes of the story, which explores Giuseppe’s existential search for meaning amidst his transient passions.
The Story of The Obsessed
The film is an adaptation of Shinji Ishii’s novel Toritsukareotoko, originally published in 2001 and reissued in 2006. The narrative follows Giuseppe, a man whose life is a continuous cycle of new fascinations. His journey takes a significant turn when he encounters Pechka, a quiet balloon seller. For the first time, Giuseppe finds himself desiring to settle down, and in his efforts to bring joy to Pechka’s life, he discovers a profound and lasting passion.
Key Talent Behind the Production
The Obsessed boasts a notable production team. Wataru Takahashi, recognized for his directorial work on several Crayon Shin-chan films, helms the project as director. The screenplay was penned by Naoyuki Miura, while Masatsugu Arakawa is responsible for the character designs. The animation production is handled by the esteemed Shin-Ei Animation studio, known for its work on iconic titles like Doraemon and Shin-chan, ensuring a blend of heartwarming visuals and expressive humor.
Anticipation Builds for Release
With its debut at the Tokyo International Film Festival scheduled for October 27, and a general release in Japan following on November 7, anticipation for The Obsessed is steadily growing. The release of “Giuseppe’s Theme” clip has further fueled excitement, offering fans a deeper insight into the quirky and heartfelt journey of its protagonist.
