Ahead of its highly anticipated Japanese theatrical release on November 7, the musical anime film The Obsessed (also known as Toritsukare Otoko) has captivated audiences with the release of new musical clips and music videos showcasing its central theme song, “Fanfare”. These previews offer an intimate look at the film’s musical heart, featuring the main cast performing an in-movie version of the track.
Dive into “Fanfare”: The Film’s Romantic Anthem
The newly released clips spotlight “Fanfare ~Koi ni Ukarete~,” an in-movie rendition of the film’s main theme, “Fanfare”. This special version is performed by the film’s lead voice actors, Masaya Sano, who portrays the protagonist Giuseppe, and Moka Kamishiraishi, who voices Pechka. Their performance adds a deeply personal and emotional layer to the song, aligning with the film’s narrative where music plays a crucial role in character expression and story development.
The primary theme song, “Fanfare,” is contributed by the popular Japanese band Awesome City Club, with member atagi also involved in the film’s extensive soundtrack production. This blend of a prominent band’s creative input with the cast’s in-character vocalizations underscores the musical depth intended for The Obsessed.
Understanding “The Obsessed” Story
The Obsessed is a musical anime film adaptation of Shinji Ishii’s 2001 novel, Toritsukare Otoko. The story centers on Giuseppe, a man known in his town for his intense, albeit short-lived, obsessions. His life takes a significant turn when he encounters Pechka, a quiet balloon seller, and falls in love at first sight.
The film explores Giuseppe’s journey as he tries to connect with Pechka, who carries a hidden sadness. Aiding him is his mouse friend, Cielo, as Giuseppe channels his former obsessions into creative ways to brighten Pechka’s world and help her overcome her sorrow.
Production and Creative Team Behind the Film
The movie is directed by Wataru Takahashi, known for his work on several Crayon Shin-chan films. The screenplay is penned by Naoyuki Miura, with Masatsugu Arakawa responsible for the character designs. Animation production is handled by Shinei Animation, and Bandai Namco Filmworks is overseeing distribution. The film is touted as a musical, featuring numerous original songs that are integral to its storytelling.
The film had a special screening as part of the Tokyo International Film Festival before its broader theatrical release. This early showcase generated significant buzz, highlighting the film’s unique approach as a musical anime.
The Role of Music in the Narrative
As a musical film, The Obsessed intricately weaves its songs into the very fabric of its plot. The characters often break into song, reflecting their emotions and advancing the narrative in a surreal yet impactful manner. This creative choice promises an immersive experience where the soundtrack is not merely background music but a dynamic element shaping the characters’ internal and external journeys. The use of the main cast for the in-movie version of “Fanfare” further blurs the line between performance and narrative, offering audiences a deeper connection to Giuseppe and Pechka’s evolving relationship.
