Captain Tsubasa
2018
Original language: Japanese
- animation
- comedy
- drama
The story
The passionate story of an elementary school student whose thoughts and dreams revolve almost entirely around the love of soccer. 11-year-old Tsubasa Oozora started playing football at a very young age, and while it was mostly just a recreational sport for his friends, for him, it developed into something of an obsession. In order to pursue his dream to the best of his elementary school abilities, Tsubasa moves with his mother to Nankatsu city, which is well-known for its excellent elementary school soccer teams. But although he was easily the best in his old town, Nankatsu has a lot more competition, and he will need all of his skill and talent in order to stand out from this new crowd.
What it’s like
Bright, saturated colours and bold outlines give this anime a sunny, sharply cut look, with schoolyards, sunlit fields and packed stands rendered in clean, high-energy frames. Matches lean on fast cuts, speed lines, dramatic zooms and freeze-frames, while quieter scenes of training and walks home settle into soft afternoon light. The score is upbeat and orchestral, swelling into bright, driving themes during kick-offs and comebacks, and crowd noise and whistles keep the sound busy. The vibe is earnest, sunny and competitive, with a steady stream of comic exaggeration in the faces and reactions. It moves in episodic, tournament-shaped arcs, with each match building toward a big moment, and its young protagonist's arc is about hard work, rivalry and friendship. Intensity is mild: sporting tension, slapstick knockdowns and the occasional bruised knee, with no gore, no sexual content and nothing frightening. It suits a comfort watch on a weekend afternoon, background viewing while doing something active, or a family evening. It is for people who want uplifting, unpretentious sports drama with heart and no real menace.
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