Reader’s Question:
I’m interested in watching the anime movie “The Night is Short, Walk on Girl.” Are there any other shows or movies I should watch before it? Also, I want to see “The Tatami Time Machine Blues.” Is it a sequel to “The Night is Short, Walk on Girl,” or
is it unrelated? Additionally, are there other anime or novels I should consider? Could you please suggest the order in which I should watch or read them?
Exploring Anime: A Journey into “The Night is Short, Walk on Girl” and Beyond
Ah, anime! A medium that has a delightful way of transporting us to whimsical worlds, often filled with eccentric characters and profound themes. Recently, a friend of mine expressed interest in watching “The Night is Short, Walk on Girl,” and naturally, I couldn’t resist diving into a discussion about it, along with some other intriguing titles.
A Perfectly Independent Experience
One of the most appealing aspects of “The Night is Short, Walk on Girl” is that you can truly enjoy it on its own. It stands independently, and you don’t need to have watched anything prior to appreciate its unique charm. This film, based on the work of Tomihiko Morimi, unfolds in a fictional representation of Kyoto, showcasing the beauty and vibrancy of student life. It’s like being wrapped in a warm blanket while sipping on your favorite warm beverage—comforting yet intriguing. Now, if you’re curious about what else to explore, I can’t help but recommend diving into Morimi’s other works, such as “The Tatami Galaxy” (四畳半神話大系) and “The Temple of the Sun” (太陽の塔). While they don’t form a direct series, they share thematic elements and the captivating backdrop of Kyoto.
The Tatami Galaxy and Its Time-Bending Sequel
Now, if you’re pondering about “The Tatami Time Machine Blues,” it’s important to clarify that this film isn’t a sequel in the traditional sense but rather an extension of the “Tatami Galaxy” universe. It features familiar characters and a whimsical narrative style that fans of the series will undoubtedly appreciate. It’s a delightful blend of comedy and science fiction that keeps you on your toes. I remember when I first watched “The Tatami Galaxy.” The animation style was like nothing I had ever seen before. The rapid-fire dialogue and surreal situations left me both bewildered and amused. There was this moment when the protagonist, referred to as “Watashi,” finds himself in an utterly bizarre club, and I couldn’t help but laugh out loud—it felt like a reflection of my own university days, albeit minus the time loops!
Suggested Viewing Order
If you’re considering a viewing or reading order, I’d suggest starting with “The Tatami Galaxy.” Immerse yourself in the short stories of Watashi’s escapades, and then follow it up with “The Tatami Time Machine Blues” to see how those characters evolve yet remain hilariously true to their nature. After that, you can take a delightful detour into “The Night is Short, Walk on Girl.” This way, you’ll have a richer understanding of the characters that pop up across these narratives. And if you find yourself with a craving for more, I would encourage exploring other anime or novels that play with similar themes of time, memory, and the whimsical nature of life. There’s something wonderfully relatable about seeing characters navigate their choices, even if it’s through a quirky lens.
Your Thoughts?
Have you had any memorable moments while exploring these shows or other anime? Maybe you stumbled upon a hidden gem or had a laugh at a particular scene that resonated with your own experiences. I’d love to hear your stories and any recommendations you might have in the comments below! Sharing these journeys makes the experience all the more enriching.
