When it comes to combining the power of music and anime, few collaborations have been as successful as the one between DAOKO and the anime film “Fireworks, Should We See it from the Side or the Bottom?” Directed by Shunji Iwai, this adaptation of his 1993 live-action drama has captured the hearts of fans both in Japan and around the world. In this article, we will explore the mesmerizing synergy between fireworks, music, and the talented artist DAOKO. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of this unique collaboration.
The Origins of “Fireworks, Should We See it from the Side or the Bottom?”
“Fireworks, Should We See it from the Side or the Bottom?” originated as a 45-minute television drama that premiered in Japan in August 1993. Written and directed by Shunji Iwai, the drama won him the prestigious New Directors Award from the Directors Guild of Japan. Starring Megumi Okina and Yuta Yamazaki, the original drama set the foundation for the captivating story that would later be adapted into an anime film.
The Story Unfolds: Uchiage Hanabi
The anime film “Fireworks, Should We See it from the Side or the Bottom?” tells the story of a group of boys who embark on an adventure during their summer vacation. Fascinated by the beauty of fireworks, they gather at the town lighthouse to witness a mesmerizing display. Their curiosity leads them to question whether fireworks appear round or flat when viewed from different angles. Amidst their exploration, the protagonist, Norimichi, receives an unexpected invitation from his crush, Nazuna, to run away with her. This sets the stage for a heartwarming and thrilling tale of friendship, love, and self-discovery.
DAOKO: A Rising Star in the Music Industry
DAOKO, a talented female rap singer, has taken the music industry by storm with her unique style and captivating voice. Collaborating with renowned artists such as Kenshi Yonezu, she has created a name for herself in the world of Japanese music. Her distinct blend of rap and pop elements has garnered her a dedicated fan base both in Japan and internationally.
The Magic of “Uchiage Hanabi” by DAOKO and Kenshi Yonezu
The song “Uchiage Hanabi” serves as the theme song for the anime film “Fireworks, Should We See it from the Side or the Bottom?” This enchanting composition by DAOKO and Kenshi Yonezu perfectly encapsulates the emotions and themes explored in the film. With its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, the song has resonated deeply with audiences, further enhancing their connection to the story.
An Anime Music Video: Bringing the World of “Uchiage Hanabi” to Life
To promote the song “Uchiage Hanabi,” DAOKO released an anime music video featuring footage from the film. This captivating visual representation adds another layer of depth to the already immersive experience of the song. Fans can now visually connect with the characters and scenes from the movie, making the music video a must-watch for any fan of the film or DAOKO’s music.
The Creative Minds Behind the Film
Behind every successful project, there are creative minds driving its vision. “Fireworks, Should We See it from the Side or the Bottom?” boasts an impressive team of talented individuals. Hitoshi Ōne, known for his work on live-action adaptations such as “Bakuman.” and “Moteki,” crafted the film’s script. Nobuyuki Takeuchi, a key animator on renowned works like “Spirited Away” and “Penguindrum,” took on the role of director, while Akiyuki Simbo, the chief director of popular anime series like “Puella Magi Madoka Magica” and “Nisekoi,” contributed his expertise to the project. Akio Watanabe, the character designer of “Nisemonogatari” and “Bakemonogatari,” brought the characters to life through his brilliant artwork. Lastly, Satoru Kousaki, known for composing music for hits like “Lucky Star” and “The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya,” created the captivating soundtrack that accompanies the film’s narrative.
DAOKO’s Cover of “Forever Friends”
In addition to the theme song “Uchiage Hanabi,” DAOKO also performed a cover of the original drama’s theme song, “Forever Friends,” for the film. This heartfelt rendition pays homage to the roots of the story and adds another layer of nostalgia for fans of the original drama. To further amplify the connection to the live-action drama, Shunji Iwai directed a music video for DAOKO’s cover. Filmed at locations featured in the original drama, this music video serves as a bridge between the past and present, allowing fans to relive the magic of the original while immersing themselves in the world of the anime film.
The Manga Adaptation: A Visual Journey
To expand the reach of the “Fireworks, Should We See it from the Side or the Bottom?” universe, a manga adaptation was created by Makoto Fugetsu. Launched in Kadokawa’s Young Ace magazine, this visual journey allows fans to experience the story in a different format. The manga adaptation further immerses readers into the world of “Uchiage Hanabi,” providing a fresh perspective on the characters and events.
The collaboration between DAOKO, Kenshi Yonezu, and the anime film “Fireworks, Should We See it from the Side or the Bottom?” has captivated audiences worldwide. Through the power of music and animation, this unique partnership has created a truly immersive experience for fans. As the film continues to make its mark in Japan and beyond, the enchanting world of “Uchiage Hanabi” will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on all who venture into its magical realm. So sit back, immerse yourself in the captivating soundtrack, and let “Fireworks, Should We See it from the Side or the Bottom?” take you on an unforgettable journey.
