OVA
Description
"Hello Kitty's The Bamboo Princess" is a 2005 anime film based on the Japanese folktale "The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter," reimagined with Hello Kitty and her friends in the central roles. The story begins with a bamboo cutter discovering a tiny, glowing princess inside a bamboo stalk. He brings her home, and she grows into a beautiful young girl named Kiki, who becomes known as the Bamboo Princess. Kiki’s presence brings prosperity and happiness to the bamboo cutter and his wife, but her origins remain mysterious.

As Kiki grows, she attracts the attention of several suitors, including Prince Richard, a charming but self-centered nobleman, and Daniel, a kind-hearted commoner. Kiki, however, feels out of place in the human world and longs to return to her true home. Her journey is marked by trials, including challenges set by the suitors to prove their worthiness. These tasks are often whimsical and reflect the lighthearted tone of the series, blending traditional folklore with the playful charm of the Hello Kitty universe.

Throughout the story, Kiki’s friends, including Hello Kitty, My Melody, and Keroppi, play supportive roles, helping her navigate her emotions and the challenges she faces. The narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, and the contrast between superficial appearances and genuine character. The climax reveals Kiki’s celestial origins, as she is revealed to be a princess from the moon. Despite her affection for her human friends, she must eventually return to her true home, leaving behind a bittersweet farewell.

The film maintains a gentle, family-friendly tone, staying true to the Hello Kitty brand while incorporating elements of the original folktale. The characters’ interactions and the moral lessons embedded in the story are presented in a straightforward manner, making it accessible to younger audiences. The plot balances moments of humor, adventure, and emotional depth, creating a cohesive narrative that aligns with the whimsical yet heartfelt style of the Hello Kitty franchise.
Information
Hello Kitty's The Bamboo Princess
ハローキティのかぐや姫
Type: OVA
Date: 09/21/1993
Registration required to rate this anime.
Cast
Comment(s)
Staff
  • Director
    Yasuo Ishikawa
  • Unit Director
    Masami Takebuchi
  • Character Design
    Maya Matsuyama
  • Animation Director
    Junko Isaka
    Mikiharu Akabori
  • Producer
    Tsunemasa Hatano
  • Music
    Akihiro Iketani
  • Art Director
    Yukio Abe
    Aiichiro Hirose
    Yōko Nagashima
  • Sound Director
    Katsuyoshi Kobayashi
  • Executive producer
    Shintarō Tsuji
Production
  • Production
    Sanrio
  • Animation Production
    Grouper Productions