Jul. 11, 2015|Japan|119 Min.|PG-13
Genre: Action;Adventure;Animation;Drama;Fantasy
Description: “The Boy and the Beast” (2015) follows the story of nine-year-old Ren, who loses his mother and refuses to live with his legal guardians. Fleeing to the streets of Shibuya, he struggles to survive, stealing food and sleeping in alleys. Meanwhile, in the Beast Kingdom, the grandmaster announces his retirement and names two potential successors: the respected Iōzen and the solitary yet powerful Kumatetsu. The grandmaster advises Kumatetsu to take on a disciple to inspire him.
While wandering Tokyo, Kumatetsu encounters Ren and offers to train him as his disciple. Reluctantly, Ren follows Kumatetsu to the Beast Kingdom, where he becomes unable to return to the human world. After witnessing a battle between Kumatetsu and Iōzen, Ren is impressed by Kumatetsu’s determination despite facing criticism. When Ren cheers for him, Kumatetsu is defeated, but the grandmaster declares the true duel for succession is yet to come.
Ren, now named Kyūta, begins training under Kumatetsu. Initially, their sessions are challenging, but Kyūta learns by observing Kumatetsu’s movements during daily tasks. Over time, he becomes skilled in combat, and they train together more effectively. Eight years later, Kyūta has mastered kendo, and through their bond, Kumatetsu gains admirers, including Iōzen’s younger son, Jirōmaru, who wishes to train with him.
Cast director: Mamoru Hosoda
Cast actor: Koji Yakusho, Aoi Miyazaki, Shota Sometani, Suzu Hirose, Kazuhiro Yamaji, Mamoru Miyano, Kappei Yamaguchi, Haru Kuroki, Momoka Ohno, Sumire Morohoshi
Original name: バケモノの子