Netflix's "Cosmic Princess Kaguya!" is a bewildering anime adaptation that defies expectations by embracing a futuristic virtual reality world and TikTok-fueled chaos, transforming the classic Japanese folk tale into a dizzying, high-energy ride.
In this reimagined version of the story, 17-year-old Iroha, a talented musician with a penchant for following her idol AI musical megastar Yachiyo, stumbles upon a glowing lamppost containing a baby girl named Kaguya. This is where the original tale diverges from its traditional roots, as Kaguya's arrival on Earth marks the beginning of an unconventional journey that whisks Iroha away to a fantastical virtual reality world called Tsukuyomi.
With Yachiyo as her guide, Iroha and Kaguya form an unlikely partnership, crafting catchy – yet cringe-worthy at times – songs that propel them toward a musical competition with superstar status. As the narrative hurtles forward, it becomes increasingly hard to keep up with the frenetic pace and overwhelming visual assault of colorful emojis, stickers, and distorted special effects.
The film's most striking aspect is its complete departure from Studio Ghibli's traditional aesthetic, which has come to define Japanese animation. The updated "Cosmic Princess Kaguya!" feels like an entirely different beast, one that boldly steps into the realm of virtual reality pop culture and social media.
While this adaptation may alienate some viewers who prefer a more grounded, less frenetic experience, fans of bold experimentation will likely find themselves captivated by its dazzling visuals and addictive energy. Ultimately, "Cosmic Princess Kaguya!" is an enigmatic anime that promises to leave audiences with as many questions as answers – a mesmerizing, confounding, and altogether unforgettable ride through the digital realm.
In this reimagined version of the story, 17-year-old Iroha, a talented musician with a penchant for following her idol AI musical megastar Yachiyo, stumbles upon a glowing lamppost containing a baby girl named Kaguya. This is where the original tale diverges from its traditional roots, as Kaguya's arrival on Earth marks the beginning of an unconventional journey that whisks Iroha away to a fantastical virtual reality world called Tsukuyomi.
With Yachiyo as her guide, Iroha and Kaguya form an unlikely partnership, crafting catchy – yet cringe-worthy at times – songs that propel them toward a musical competition with superstar status. As the narrative hurtles forward, it becomes increasingly hard to keep up with the frenetic pace and overwhelming visual assault of colorful emojis, stickers, and distorted special effects.
The film's most striking aspect is its complete departure from Studio Ghibli's traditional aesthetic, which has come to define Japanese animation. The updated "Cosmic Princess Kaguya!" feels like an entirely different beast, one that boldly steps into the realm of virtual reality pop culture and social media.
While this adaptation may alienate some viewers who prefer a more grounded, less frenetic experience, fans of bold experimentation will likely find themselves captivated by its dazzling visuals and addictive energy. Ultimately, "Cosmic Princess Kaguya!" is an enigmatic anime that promises to leave audiences with as many questions as answers – a mesmerizing, confounding, and altogether unforgettable ride through the digital realm.