"Tatsumi" is an anime film adaptation of the autobiographical manga by Yoshihiro Tatsumi, a pioneering figure in the gekiga genre of Japanese comics. The film is structured as an anthology, weaving together several short stories from Tatsumi's works, interspersed with biographical segments that chronicle his life and career. The narrative alternates between Tatsumi's personal journey as a manga artist and the fictional tales he created, reflecting the social and psychological struggles of post-war Japan.

The biographical segments depict Tatsumi's early passion for manga, his rise to prominence in the 1950s, and his eventual disillusionment with the industry's constraints. These segments highlight his development of the gekiga style, which aimed to tell more mature and realistic stories, contrasting with the lighthearted tone of mainstream manga at the time. The film explores his struggles with creative freedom, financial instability, and the evolving landscape of Japanese society.

The fictional stories included in the film are dark, introspective, and often tragic, reflecting the harsh realities of life in post-war Japan. "Hell" follows a photojournalist who uncovers a haunting secret about a family affected by the atomic bomb. "Beloved Monkey" portrays a factory worker who forms a deep bond with a monkey, only to face heartbreak as his life unravels. "Just a Man" delves into the midlife crisis of a salaryman who grapples with infidelity and existential despair. "Occupied" examines the psychological toll of war through the eyes of a soldier returning home. "Goodbye" tells the story of a young woman forced into prostitution to support her family, highlighting themes of sacrifice and societal neglect.

Through these interconnected narratives, "Tatsumi" offers a poignant exploration of human suffering, resilience, and the complexities of post-war Japanese society. The film captures the essence of Tatsumi's work, blending personal reflection with fictional storytelling to create a compelling and thought-provoking experience. The characters, whether based on Tatsumi's own life or his creations, are portrayed with depth and nuance, embodying the struggles and aspirations of a generation navigating a rapidly changing world.