The Boy and the Beast

Synopsis

In "The Boy and the Beast," nine-year-old orphan Ren, after losing his last close relative, is turned away by his remaining family. Homeless and without a place to belong, he hides in the intricate alleyways of Shibuya. While wandering, Ren meets Kumatetsu, a powerful figure who takes him to the mythical beast world called Shibuten. Seeing potential in Ren, Kumatetsu views him as an opportunity to become a candidate for the realm's leadership, which will soon be left vacant by the current lord. Though nearly unbeatable in battle, Kumatetsu's distant personality has kept him from finding a disciple, a necessity for proving he is worthy of succeeding the lord. Despite their different motives, Ren—renamed Kyuuta—and Kumatetsu make a pact to help each other. Kumatetsu seeks recognition, while Kyuuta longs for the sense of belonging he has never had. Over time, their connection deepens, revealing how much each helps the other in unexpected ways. The gap between a human child and a beast may not be as wide as they once believed.

Background

With over ¥5.8 billion in total, Bakemono no Ko was Japan's second highest-grossing domestic film of 2015. It won the Japan Academy Prize for Best Animated Feature, and was also nominated for an Annie Award in its independent category.