The Colors Within, Naoko Yamada’s latest anime film, offers a refreshing departure from the typical urban settings of most anime, choosing instead to take place in the historic city of Nagasaki. This film, produced by the acclaimed Science SARU studio, premiered in the Philippines last month, and has since garnered attention for its distinctive setting and heartfelt narrative.
For viewers unfamiliar with Nagasaki, the city is renowned for its rich history, particularly as a center of Christianity in Japan. The film’s backdrop, a Catholic boarding school, draws upon this history, blending the city’s unique cultural and religious heritage into the story. This choice of location is notable, as it is rare for anime films to focus on regions outside of the typical urban landscapes, such as Tokyo.
Although the city’s name is never explicitly mentioned during the film, the visual and historical cues led many viewers to suspect Nagasaki as the setting. This was confirmed by the Nagasaki City Tourism Exchange Promotion Office via a post on their official X (formerly Twitter) account in November. The office also announced a collaboration with the film, showcasing a special tramcar wrapped in The Colors Within promotional artwork. This tram, operating along the Nagasaki Electric Tramway lines until December 11, offers a unique opportunity for fans to experience a piece of the film’s world in person.
Nagasaki’s role in the film is more than just a backdrop; the city’s deep connection to Catholicism plays a subtle yet significant part in the narrative. Unlike most anime, which often draw on Buddhist or Shinto themes, The Colors Within incorporates elements of Christianity, marking a notable departure from the norm.
Beyond its historical setting, the film itself has been well-received for its emotionally resonant story, captivating visuals, and evocative music. Fans of Naoko Yamada’s work and Science SARU’s distinctive animation style will likely find much to appreciate in this latest release.
Anime fans in the United States can look forward to The Colors Within arriving in theaters on January 24, 2025.
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