It’s time for a delightful transformation, as the beloved stop-motion series Pui Pui Molcar evolves into an exquisite 3D CG anime spectacle. The innovative team behind Shinei Animation has announced, via their official website, an exhilarating new 3D CG anime film set to premiere this year, courtesy of TOHO NEXT.
Fresh Direction with a Nod to the Past
The creative force propelling this project is none other than Mankyū, the visionary mind behind works like Sumikkogurashi – Good to be in the corner and The IDOLM@STER Shiny Colors. Steering the film with his directorial expertise and adding a fresh perspective to the Molcar universe, Mankyū will carry the legacy forward while paying homage to the original series.
Under the experienced guidance of Tomoki Misato, the original Pui Pui Molcar’s pioneer and stop-motion series director, the film will flourish with his input as the chief supervisor. Further adding to the creative mix, scriptwriter Yuuko Kakihara, known for her work on the second and third seasons of Chihayafuru and Cells at Work!, is set to craft the narrative, promising an enchanting tale that fans and newcomers alike will adore.
The Original Stop-Motion Sensation
Debuting with an atmosphere of innovation and charm in January 2021, the stop-motion series captured hearts with its placement on TV Tokyo’s Kinder TV children’s variety program, weaving stories about adorable guinea pig cars. These woolen felt puppets, whimsically named “Molcars,” brought joy and creativity to screens worldwide, as Netflix picked up the series for global streaming, extending beyond some Asian regions, in March 2021.
The series’ popularity skyrocketed, leading to Tobidase! Narase! Pui Pui Molcar, a compilation film that graced Japanese cinemas in July 2021. This warmhearted stop-motion venture marked the directorial debut of Tomoki Misato in the animated series realm, showcasing his multifaceted talents in scriptwriting and storyboard collaboration alongside Hana Ono and Kei Sato. A dedicated team of animators and artists, including the likes of Ikuko Iwatsuki and Harune Satō, brought the Molcars to life with meticulous craftsmanship and passion.
Digital Expansions and Creative Collaborations
The Pui Pui Molcar phenomenon has also ventured into the digital space with the launch of the Pui Pui Molcar Mogu Mogu Parking smartphone game, further expanding its interactive realm for fans in July 2021. Moreover, the versatility of Shinei Animation extends beyond the whimsical Molcars as they are well-known for their production of acclaimed titles such as Crayon Shin-chan and Doraemon. Meanwhile, Wit Studio has strengthened its commitment to stop-motion artistry by establishing a specialized studio with Misato as of December 2020.
Sources: Pui Pui Molcar anime’s website, Comic Natalie
Final Thoughts
As we anticipate the release of this all-new 3D CG anime film, the Pui Pui Molcar franchise continues to charm and innovate. With a rich blend of traditional stop-motion heritage and the dazzling promise of 3D technology, the Molcar family is set to embark on a groundbreaking journey, inviting audiences old and new to buckle up for a fresh adventure. Stay tuned for more updates on this wonderful blend of storytelling and cutting-edge animation that is sure to capture hearts and imaginations across the globe.
