Kemurigusa Monogatari

Rate a 6
English Subtitled

Story
Not what i thought it would be. I was expecting more of comical spin on cigarettes history. However, what i got instead was more gag and hardly anything historical. There are far too many questions that arrived from this skit. Such as what is the relationship between the two main characters? What story did the male have to offer? what was his reasoning for thinking of his comparison in the beginning? All of which makes me think if this was purely meant for cheap laughs or required some in-depth thinking?

Art
Animation/character design surprised me. The cutout animation blend with live action shot worked ... out wonderfully. Although there was a scene or two that did not make sense. Such as a 2 or so second frame clip of a 'woman' who doesn't appear later on. Also, shortly before her appearance the animation seemed to pause/skip. Similar transition if you recall skips to either records or cds.

Overall: Comedy is apparent. While the story is not meant for sustainable plot the whole show is worth a 3 minute watch. Given how it was probably the first of its kind for this particular art style.

Now this was interesting. it was the first including of RL footage and animation. The premise is quit interesting but have to admit that the animation was quit ugly. Now dunno if the character was animated ugly in purpose or not. Also the story is kinda dull. And yes, I know it's short but still, there are way better short films, with better story and animation, so the runtime can't be a excuse for lacking. I forgot if I watched other works from the director or not, but he has done better story shorts if I had watched them. So yeah, kinda feels you left ... a bit confused and a bit disapointed about this one.