In a dazzling display of animation and storytelling, “Cosmic Princess Kaguya!” transports viewers on a trippy, high-energy journey through the realms of virtual reality and Japanese folklore. This hyperactive adaptation of a beloved tale challenges the boundaries of traditional anime, blending cutting-edge technology with the timeless charm of a centuries-old legend.
The film follows the story of Iroha, a diligent high school student and talented musician, who stumbles upon a peculiar discovery – a baby girl emerging from a glowing lamppost. As Iroha takes the child, now named Kaguya, under her wing, a remarkable transformation unfolds. Overnight, the infant grows into a pre-teen beauty, revealing her true identity as a runaway from the moon.
Kaguya’s arrival sets in motion a whirlwind of events, as she persuades Iroha to collaborate on songs to compete in a contest to perform with the virtual idol Yachiyo. The plot races forward with a dizzying energy, blending the duo’s creative endeavors with Kaguya’s impulsive nature and the captivating virtual reality world of Tsukuyomi.
Visually, “Cosmic Princess Kaguya!” is a feast for the senses. The animation seamlessly transitions between the grounded realism of Iroha’s life and the surreal, neon-drenched landscapes of the virtual realm. Vibrant colours and explosive emoji-filled sequences create a hypnotic, almost kaleidoscopic effect, reflecting the film’s high-octane, techno-infused aesthetic.
The voice performances, led by Dawn M. Bennett as Iroha in the English dub, bring depth and nuance to the characters, balancing the film’s whimsical energy with moments of genuine emotion and introspection. Kaguya’s ethereal presence and Iroha’s grounded practicality create a compelling dynamic that propels the narrative forward.
While the film’s frenetic pace and techno-infused visuals may prove dizzying for some older viewers, “Cosmic Princess Kaguya!” ultimately succeeds in blending the timeless allure of Japanese folklore with the vibrant, modern sensibilities of the digital age. This anime adaptation is a dazzling, one-of-a-kind cinematic experience that challenges the boundaries of the medium and invites audiences to embrace the cosmic wonder of its virtual reality-infused world.
