This little gem of an interview comes from the scenerio writer himself. Mewtwo Strikes Back began as a “movie concept” by Shoudou Takeshi, who worked for several years as one of the main writers for the anime show. Here are his comments in an interview at the time of the film's release. But first, a little about this writer...
Shoudou Takashi has written scripts, and screenplays for many anime series. His best known works include Magical Princess Minky MOMO(which was remade in '92), Sengokumajin GOSHOGUN and Idol Angel Youkoso YOUKO He has also written a personal novel. Shoudou prefers to write young female characters, which he bases on people he has known. Musashi (Jessie, for example, was based on a high school girlfriend. Sadly, Shoudou learned in 2000 that he had developed liver disease due to his heavy drinking. He has since retired from series construction. However, he is now writing more scripts.
Shoudou Takeshi on Myutsuu No Gyakushuu
"Where is this? Who am I?"
Mewtwo strikes back is opened with these, Mewtwo's lines.
It is not a Shakespearean tragedy, but a film for children in summer holidays.
“The question of raison d'etre is out of place! Don't put on airs!”
If you say this so, I will be at my wits' end. Perhaps, this anime is not only for children but also for their guardians: Where is this? Who am I? If you answer,
"This is a movie theater where I seldom come. I am a parent who has a child. --Ah, child rearing is expensive, tiring job."
I will be embarrassed slightly by your answer
I hope the movie gives some diversion to adults too. This film is seen by children and their guardians, I must make the anime not to satisfy children only, and not to satisfy otaku only. Well, I wrote the scenario of this anime in the hope that you, who are children's guardians, think--
"I spend my time seeing this movie once---it was not such a waste of time."
I think, originally, raison d'etre is a question for all children ever since they learn the word "why?". If this movie becomes the start of you and your child's discussion about some question, it has theraison d'etre as an anime movie, one which is seen by children and their guardians.
Quoted from the book"Pocket monsters Mewtwo no gyakusyuu/ Pikachu no Natsuyasumi"(Shogakukan ink.)
Back to Print ReviewsTake Me Home!