Kitaro Kosaka's "OKKO'S INN"
Movie review by Dennis D. McDonald
Young Okko’s parents are killed in a horrible car crash. She survives and is sent to live with her grandmother in a small Japanese country inn. There she meets two child ghosts — and a young demon — whom only she can see. They help her survive her emotional trauma. Meanwhile she learns the innkeeping business and traditional Japanese customs that she, a city girl, is new to.
It’s a sentimental and emotional concoction but the challenges faced by young Okko as she struggles with her new life are deftly and sensitively related. Her comradeship with the young ghosts helps her deal with very difficult circumstances. At times the raw nature of emotion and tragedy she witnesses and experiences are very strong. But she perseveres. An emotionally satisfying ending finds her engaging with new friends, traditional Japanese customs, and her own inner strengths.
The animation in this film is beautiful. Character design is expressive. Scenery and the natural surrounding of the village and hot springs are sumptuous and at time drop dead gorgeous. Colors are bright and vivid. Traditional Japanese customs are very carefully rendered. Recommended, but be aware that the film does not avoid dealing with tragedy.
Review copyright (c) 2020 by Dennis D. McDonald