My Oni Girl (2024) Movie Review: A Fantastical Tale That Misses the Mark
In the ever-expanding world of anime, “My Oni Girl” (2024) attempts to carve out its own niche amidst a sea of similar tales. Directed by Tomotaka Shibayama and produced by Studio Colorido, this film brings together elements of Japanese folklore and high school drama. But does it stand out or blend into the crowd? Let’s dive into this review to find out if “My Oni Girl” is worth your time or if it should be skipped.
Plot Overview
“My Oni Girl” follows Hiiragi Yatsuse (voiced by Michael Johnston), a first-year high school student who struggles with self-assertion and is often taken advantage of by his peers. His life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Tsumugi (voiced by Victoria T. Washington), a mysterious girl who turns out to be an oni, a type of Japanese demon. Tsumugi is on a quest to find her missing mother, and Hiiragi finds himself unwittingly pulled into her journey.
What Sets It Apart
While the concept of a meek boy helping a powerful, supernatural being isn’t new, “My Oni Girl” attempts to infuse its story with Japanese folklore. The film explores the notion that suppressed emotions can lead to transformations into oni, adding a layer of psychological depth to the narrative. However, despite these intriguing elements, the film struggles to leverage them fully.
Characters and Performances
The film’s characters, particularly Hiiragi, lack depth. Hiiragi is a classic example of the passive protagonist who seems more of a plot device than a fully fleshed-out character. Tsumugi, on the other hand, is brash and demanding, often coming off as abrasive rather than endearing. This dynamic might have been interesting if executed with more nuance, but instead, it highlights the film’s struggles with character development.
Kirsten Day deserves a mention for her portrayal of Mikuri Yatsuse, Hiiragi’s mother. Her performance brings a warm, maternal presence to the screen, which contrasts sharply with the other characters’ more frustrating traits.
Animation and Visuals
The animation, crafted by Studio Colorido and Twin Engine, is visually appealing with its blend of traditional cel animation and computer-generated backgrounds. The character designs, handled by Masafumi Yokota, are charming and well-crafted. However, the overall aesthetic might feel too polished, losing some of the impact that might have been achieved with a more traditional approach.
Themes and Execution
The film touches on themes of self-worth and personal growth but often feels like it’s skating over these important issues rather than delving deeply into them. The narrative meanders between plot points without a clear direction, making it difficult for viewers to stay engaged. The fantasy elements, while present, fail to inject the story with the urgency and emotional depth needed to make it memorable.
Streaming and Availability
For those interested in watching “My Oni Girl,” it is available for streaming on Netflix in most regions outside of Japan. This accessibility might make it an easy choice for anime enthusiasts looking for something new to watch. In the U.S., it can be rented or purchased through various streaming services like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, and Apple TV.
For more information on where to find other anime and films, check out Gomovies’ Best Rating.
Final Verdict
“My Oni Girl” is a film that brings a lot of potential to the table but ultimately falls short of delivering a compelling experience. The familiar tropes and lack of character depth make it a less memorable entry in the anime genre. If you’re a devoted otaku or have a deep interest in Japanese folklore, you might find some enjoyment in the film’s fantasy elements. However, for those looking for a standout anime experience, this one may be better skipped.
Stream it or Skip it? Given its availability on Netflix and other rental services, it might be worth a watch if you’re in the mood for a light and visually appealing film, but don’t expect it to leave a lasting impression.
