The Concierge at Hokkyoku Department Store Parents Guide:
The Concierge at Hokkyoku Department Store is an enchanting Japanese animated film that has captivated audiences with its unique story and beautiful animation. Directed by Yoshimi Itazu, the movie was first released in Japan on October 20, 2023. Following its success in Japan, the film is set for a limited release on September 11, 2024, giving international viewers a chance to experience this magical tale.
Age Rating: PG (Parental Guidance)
“The Concierge at Hokkyoku Department Store” has been given a PG rating. This means that the film is generally suitable for children, but some scenes may require parental guidance, especially for younger viewers.
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Reasons for the PG Rating:
- Mild Fantasy Elements: The movie includes fantasy themes where animals, including extinct species, talk and interact in a human-like manner. While charming and imaginative, these elements might confuse or slightly unsettle very young children who are not yet familiar with the concept of fantasy.
- Emotional Themes: The storyline involves characters dealing with personal issues and emotional challenges, such as fulfilling difficult customer requests or facing job-related stress. These themes are handled sensitively, but they might be more meaningful and impactful for older children and adults.
- Mild Peril: There are moments of mild tension or peril when the characters face challenges or obstacles. However, these scenes are not intense or frightening, making them appropriate for most audiences, though younger viewers may need reassurance.
Viewer Discretion Advised:
While The Concierge at Hokkyoku Department Store is a family-friendly film, parents should be aware of the mild fantasy elements and emotional themes that could require explanation or discussion with younger viewers. It’s a great movie to watch together, allowing parents to guide their children through any questions or feelings that might arise during the film.
Movie Details:
| Title | The Concierge at Hokkyoku Department Store |
|---|---|
| Release Date | October 20, 2023 (Japan), September 11, 2024 (Limited Release) |
| Director | Yoshimi Itazu |
| Writers | Tsuchika Nishimura, Satomi Ôshima |
| Genres | Animation, Adventure, Family, Fantasy |
| Country of Origin | Japan |
| Language | Japanese |
| Alternate Title | The Concierge |
| Production Companies | ADK, Aniplex, KDDI Corporation |
| Runtime | 1 hour 10 minutes |
| Age Rating | PG |
Top Cast:
| Actor | Character (Voice) |
|---|---|
| Natsumi Kawaida | Akino |
| Takeo Otsuka | Eruru |
| Nobuo Tobita | Todo |
| Megumi Han | Mori |
| Natsumi Fujiwara | Iwase |
| Eiji Yoshitomi | Maruki |
| Jun Fukuyama | Maitre D |
| Yûichi Nakamura | Tokiwa |
| Kenjirô Tsuda | Wally |
| Danshun Tatekawa | Laughing Owl (Husband) |
| Sumi Shimamoto | Laughing Owl (Wife) |
| Minako Kotobuki | Sea Mink (Daughter) |
| Hiroshi Yanaka | Sea Mink (Father) |
| Hiroki Nanami | Male Peacock |
| Marika Kôno | Female Peacock |
| Kana Hanazawa | Female Japanese Wolf |
| Kyôko Hikami | Caribbean Monk Seal |
| Miyu Irino | Japanese Wolf |
Storyline:
In this magical tale, Akino starts her new job as a concierge at the elegant Hokkyoku Department Store. However, this is no ordinary department store. Here, the customers are all animals, with some being extinct species like sea minks, laughing owls, and even
a woolly mammoth named Mr. Woolly, a famous sculptor. Akino’s job is to assist these special customers and fulfill their wishes, whether they are looking for hard-to-find items or need help with personal problems. As Akino tries to meet their expectations, she is constantly being watched by her strict floor manager, Mr. Todo, and a mysterious store president. Will Akino be able to keep her job and satisfy her unusual customers?