Now let's begin the analysis. The story revolves around essentially two characters, Josee, our female protagonist and Tsuneo, our male protagonist. How two individuals met by pure coincidence and how their circumstances allowed them to stay connected. Pride, Resilience and the Tragedy of Loss. This is a story of having no direction, losing ones direction, and having the resolve to find it.
The story starts off in a rather odd fashion. Introduction between the protagonists was unceremoniously dramatic. Most often or not, the pairing of drama and romance in movies tends to be conveyed with input of melodrama. This introduction, was no different but it does carry significant value in the longer term. The abrupt meeting between the two was an avenue to create tension between them. Coupled with circumstances from Josee's disability, communication between the two was indisputably tough and tiresome. Having been kept away from the world for most of ones life, any individual would be inexperienced with interactions thus carry a different perspective of the world. Differing views are the fuel for dissent and this in itself, was one of the hurdles to overcome. I enjoyed how this was executed: the realistic nature and how it may resonate with viewers.
'Direction'. This movie was the very depiction of ones direction in life. Josee being disabled was one of the core aspects of the movie that reinforces the idea of 'having no direction'. Tsuneo, had a contrasting portrayal with his initial sense of direction being clear. Though it carries several cliches and may have a generic story outline, they do not fail to convey the associated hardships. Additionally, the story is coherent without any loopholes. Sure, some parts are initially questionable and, on surface level, are slightly difficult to comprehend. But these are just a matter of inference, and by simply re-analysing those scenes you should be able to connect the dots.
Now let's talk about the characters. The interactions and relationship between Josee and Tsuneo are extremely entertaining. A considerable amount of it is conflict but that's precisely what makes the development meaningful. I strongly feel that engagement between two characters of contrasting character are often more enjoyable to watch than others who simply 'get along' so this aspect was certainly gratifying to watch. As for the side characters? There really isn't anything special as they serve to support the realism and entertainment of the story such as Josee's grandmother and her adamance towards Josee stepping outside the house. As I have stated earlier, the story quite literally revolves around the two protagonists.
Finally, the aesthetics and sound of the film. I was initially intrigued to watch this film because of the art and music, and am most certainly pleased. The art style is simple yet extremely satisfying. Similar to animated film Koe no Katachi, the movie adopts a more realistic art style which makes it outstanding as compared to many others. Moreover, this makes the characters expression more heartfelt, and along with the visual effects, creates several beautiful moments in the film. Theme song, Ao no Waltz, by Eve is an amazing piece seemingly embodying the feeling of joy, sorrow, hope and empowerment thus a fitting theme for this story.
Overall, 'Josee, the Tiger and the Fish' is an enjoyable and heartening movie. For those who enjoyed other romance themed movies, I believe this should be no exception as it is really worth the watch.
