Movie
Description
Medama Oyaji is the father of Kitaro and a member of the ghost tribe. Originally a fully formed adult ghost, he perished from a disease and was reborn as an anthropomorphic eyeball with a tiny body measuring about 9.9 centimeters in height and weighing roughly 33 grams. He typically resides in Kitaro's empty eye socket or perches on his shoulder, serving as a constant companion and guide. Despite his small and fragile appearance, he possesses a resilient spirit and an immense love for his son. His personality is characterized by paternal devotion, a calm and rational demeanor, and a deep well of knowledge about yokai and the supernatural. He enjoys taking hot baths in a small bowl and is often seen doing so when at ease.
In the story of Gegege no Kitaro: Yokai Tokkyu! Maboroshi no Kisha, Medama Oyaji receives a prophetic dream from Enma Daio, the ruler of hell, warning that Western yokai have stolen the phantom train, a mystical vehicle capable of traveling anywhere, including the past and future. He takes on the role of gathering Kitaro and their yokai allies to pursue the train and stop the villains from using it to gain dominion over all yokai. When Kitaro is captured and turned into demon coal to fuel the train, Medama Oyaji remembers that the train can go anywhere and cleverly redirects its destination to the past, allowing Kitaro to be restored before the transformation occurred. This act demonstrates his quick thinking and willingness to risk himself for his son's safety. His most notable ability is the power to summon the phantom train itself, though doing so comes at the cost of his life due to a supernatural decree, highlighting his self-sacrificial nature.
Medama Oyaji's key relationship is with Kitaro, whom he raises, mentors, and protects. He also works closely with other yokai such as Neko-musume and Nezumi-otoko, often providing strategic advice and encyclopedic knowledge. His development in the film centers on his role as a devoted father who will go to any length to save his child, reinforcing his legacy as a wise and caring figure in the yokai world. Beyond his knowledge, he can communicate telepathically with other yokai and has a commanding presence among them despite his size. His background as a former adult ghost grants him insight into both the human and spirit realms, making him an indispensable guide in Kitaro's adventures.
In the story of Gegege no Kitaro: Yokai Tokkyu! Maboroshi no Kisha, Medama Oyaji receives a prophetic dream from Enma Daio, the ruler of hell, warning that Western yokai have stolen the phantom train, a mystical vehicle capable of traveling anywhere, including the past and future. He takes on the role of gathering Kitaro and their yokai allies to pursue the train and stop the villains from using it to gain dominion over all yokai. When Kitaro is captured and turned into demon coal to fuel the train, Medama Oyaji remembers that the train can go anywhere and cleverly redirects its destination to the past, allowing Kitaro to be restored before the transformation occurred. This act demonstrates his quick thinking and willingness to risk himself for his son's safety. His most notable ability is the power to summon the phantom train itself, though doing so comes at the cost of his life due to a supernatural decree, highlighting his self-sacrificial nature.
Medama Oyaji's key relationship is with Kitaro, whom he raises, mentors, and protects. He also works closely with other yokai such as Neko-musume and Nezumi-otoko, often providing strategic advice and encyclopedic knowledge. His development in the film centers on his role as a devoted father who will go to any length to save his child, reinforcing his legacy as a wise and caring figure in the yokai world. Beyond his knowledge, he can communicate telepathically with other yokai and has a commanding presence among them despite his size. His background as a former adult ghost grants him insight into both the human and spirit realms, making him an indispensable guide in Kitaro's adventures.