“20.000 Leagues Under the Sea” (海底3万マイル, Kaitei Sanman Mile), should not be confused with the novel of the same name by Jules Verne, the anime film is a forgotten masterpiece of Japanese animation, emerged from the creativity of Shōtarō Ishinomori and brought on the screen by Toei Animation in 1970. This rare pearl, distributed in Italy in 1971, deviates from typical oceanic narratives, weaving a compelling and original plot that still resonates with contemporary themes today.
What the series is about?
The film revolves around the adventures of Isamu, the young and courageous son of an eminent oceanographer. Accompanied by his loyal cheetah Cheetah and Princess Angel of the underwater kingdom, Isamu comes face to face with a threat that darkens the depths of the sea: Magma VII, the ruler of a dark subterranean kingdom, whose ambition extends to world conquest on the surface.
The fight for the future
The dynamism of the characters is revealed through daring battles and precarious alliances under the sea. While Magma VII embodies arrogance and the lust for power, Isamu and Angel represent hope, courage and determination in the face of the darkness that threatens to engulf their worlds. It's a race against time as the trio tries to foil Magma's plans for global domination, thus protecting the biodiversity and balance of the ocean depths.
Style and animation
In terms of animation, “20.000 Leagues Under the Sea” stands out for its characteristic style of the time. The vivid color palette, detailed drawings of sea creatures and fantastical underwater setting are a tribute to the craftsmanship of its creators. However, it is the humanity of its characters and the universality of the conflict at the heart of the story that, even decades later, continues to speak to viewers of all ages.
Conclusion
“20.000 Leagues Under the Sea” is a journey into human ingenuity and the perpetual struggle between good and evil, a recurring theme that transcends generations. Although it does not enjoy the fame of other contemporary works, it remains an essential title for anime fans and those who wish to explore the rich heritage of Japanese animation. In an age of digital productions, this film reminds audiences of the importance of craftsmanship, storytelling and boundless imagination.
Technical data
Original title: 海底3万マイル (Kaitei San-man Mile)
Original language: Japanese
Country of Production: Japan
Production year: 1970
Duration: 60 minutes
Gender: Animation, Adventure, Fantasy
Directed by: Takeshi Tamiya
Subject: Shōtarō Ishinomori
Production House: Toei Animation
Original voice actors:
- Masako Nozawa: Isamu
- Kurumi Kobato: Angel
- Tetsuya Kaji: Isamu's father
- Reiko Seno: Isamu's mother
- Akira Hitomi: Tortuga
- Gorō Naya: Metropolitan King
- Umino Katsuwo: Octopus
- Yonehiko Kitagawa: King of Atlas
- Keiichi Noda: Narrator
Italian voice actors:
- Loris Loddi: Isamu
- Ferruccio Amendola: Tortuga
- Luciano De Ambrosis: Magma VII
- Manlio De Angelis: Isamu's Father
- Romano Ghini: Soldier of the Underground Kingdom
- Daniele Tedeschi: Soldier of the Underground Kingdom
- Vittorio Cramer: Commentator
Synopsis: Set in the unexplored depths of the ocean, this animated film follows the adventures of Isamu, a courageous boy who, together with the underwater princess Angel and a series of faithful companions, pledges to stop the evil Magma's plans to conquer the world VII, king of an underground kingdom. With its mix of action, adventure and a hint of fantasy, “20.000 Leagues Under the Sea” transcends time, continuing to enchant and inspire new generations of anime and animated film fans.
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