Movie
Description
In the 2012 anime short BUTA, Kitsune is a young anthropomorphic fox child who serves as one of the two central protagonists. He comes from a family entrusted with protecting an old and valuable treasure map that supposedly leads to a great hidden fortune. The story begins on his birthday, when his father intends to gift him this very map. Before he can truly celebrate, their home is invaded by the bumbling Tufugu Pirates, who kidnap Kitsune and steal the map for themselves.

Kitsune is portrayed as a clever and resourceful boy with sharp-witted dialogue that belies his young age. After being captured, he is locked away below deck on the pirate ship. It is here that he encounters Buta, a disgruntled and apprehensive samurai who is a pig, hired by the pirates to help them on their treasure hunt. Kitsune quickly uses his intelligence to manipulate the situation, tricking Buta into helping him escape. This event kicks off the film's central dynamic: a reluctant partnership between the cynical mercenary and the enterprising young fox.

Once free, Kitsune's primary motivation is to reclaim his family's treasure map and likely find the treasure itself, though his journey quickly becomes tied to his new companion. Rather than a helpless figure needing rescue, he is an active agent in the story, and his actions force the grumpy Buta into an adventure he never wanted. The core of the narrative focuses on the developing bond between the two as they flee from the pirates, who remain in hot pursuit throughout the film.

Kitsune's key relationship is undoubtedly with Buta. Their dynamic is central to the story, beginning with mistrust and trickery but evolving into genuine camaraderie over the course of their shared ordeal. The film showcases several bonding moments between the pair as they learn to rely on one another, leading to a humorous and action-packed finale. He also has a significant off-screen connection to his father and family, who are the original guardians of the treasure map.

Over the course of the short film, Kitsune undergoes noticeable development, shifting from a kidnapped victim to an active and clever partner in the adventure. His sharp dialogue and quick thinking serve as a contrast to Buta's more world-weary and reluctant personality, and their interactions drive much of the film's charm and humor. As for notable abilities, Kitsune does not display any supernatural powers or combat skills. His primary assets are his intelligence, his quick wit, and his persuasive abilities, which he uses to outmaneuver the incompetent pirates and steer the course of his and Buta's journey.