Kodansha's picture book has been adapted into a short anime for TV commercials and web release under the "Animehon" project, which started recently. The inaugural work in this series is "Lucica the Hedgehog," a beloved title for over a decade, cherished by everyone from toddlers to adults. The anime broadcast and streaming began at noon on May 10.

In this "Animehon 'Lucica the Hedgehog,'" the particularly popular first book of the "Lucica the Hedgehog" series has been produced in both a long and a short version.

The 30-second short version is being broadcast as a national TV commercial, while a 3-minute director's cut version, the long version, is available online. An English subtitled version is also released, making it accessible to international audiences. The voices featured include Minami Shinoda as Lucica, Fukuko Yukimiyama as Sol, and Hotakakeru as the narrator.

The animation production, which vividly and colorfully reproduces the warm and gentle world of the original, is handled by Fanworks, known for their work on the "Sumikko Gurashi" movie series and "Aggretsuko" (Netflix). The director Masanori Numaguchi, who has directed the 4th series of NHK E Tele's "Penelope tete en l'air," brings to life "a gentle tale of friendship among the curious creatures of the country of Feriel" through delicate and fantastical 3D animation.

Moreover, aiming for further development of this animated work, plans include a booth exhibition and a stage presentation during the Annecy Festival (June 9-15, 2024) at MIFA, Europe's largest animation content market.

Synopsis:

Lucica the hedgehog, who loves making jam and singing.
This is a heartwarming story about the curious creatures of the country of Feriel.
One day, she and the mole Sol go searching for Akasuguri berries to make a sweet red jam...

Director Masanori Numaguchi's Comment:

"I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to be involved in the production of 'Lucica the Hedgehog.' It is an honor to undertake the visualization of such a wonderfully charming world, created over many years by Ms. Kanno and Ms. Kitami. In production, we were careful to preserve the warm atmosphere of the original, while maximizing the appeal of the characters and striving for a vibrant, lifelike expression. Thanks to the earnest cooperation of the entire staff, I believe we have created a fine work. I hope you will watch it and appreciate the charm of the original in a new way. Although it was produced as a short animation, I sincerely hope this series will continue to evolve."

Original Author Comment by Yuko Kanno:

"I began writing 'Lucica the Hedgehog' in 2011. Born from the desire to light a small lamp in the hearts of those saddened by the disaster, I never imagined the day would come when Lucica and friends would come to life so vividly. If I could tell my past self, she would surely be amazed. The completed anime work, warm, beautiful, and filled with kindness, clearly conveys how carefully it was created while preserving the world of the original. I hope the animated 'Lucica the Hedgehog' will be loved by many."

Original Illustrator Comment by Yoko Kitami:

"When I started drawing this story, I wondered what kind of world Lucica the hedgehog lived in. I remember how my imagination expanded: a slightly mysterious forest, Lucica with a basket shaped just like her, and the mole Sol with a shovel over his shoulder. It's overwhelming to see them animated! The warm narration and beautiful music, with the adorable voices and actions scurrying about, are truly charming. The animated 'Lucica the Hedgehog,' faithfully recreating Lucica's compassionate world, would be a joy for many to watch."

Edit By Taimu Tsuji
Source ORICON NEWS