The treatment of neurodivergent and disabled individuals is always evolving. How we approach these topics, and the language we use, constantly changes, and with every shift, we move in a more positive direction. Inclusivity is essential, especially in schools, where our experiences can set us on various life paths. When we are young, we are impressionable, and without good teachers and role models to guide us, our lives can take drastically different courses. Totto-chan: The Little Girl at the Window, set in the 1940s as Japan’s involvement in World War II intensifies, beautifully highlights the importance of school. Even though some people are neurodivergent or disabled, the story reminds us that we are all equal and capable of anything if we try.
Based on the memoir of TV personality Tetsuko Kuroyanagi, Totto-chan: The Little Girl at the Window follows Totto-chan, a young girl expelled from her school for being too disruptive. Her mother takes her to Tomoe Gakuen to see if they will accept her as a student. After a long conversation, Sōsaku Kobayashi, the principal of Tomoe Gakuen, agrees to enroll her. Over the years, we witness the valuable life lessons Totto-chan learns, even as Japan descends into war.
Although Totto-chan is not explicitly described as neurodivergent, she exhibits traits that might be considered on the spectrum, from interpreting instructions literally to experiencing strong sensory reactions, such as when she touches a wooden table. Other students at Tomoe Gakuen are also neurodivergent or disabled. Yasuaki Yamamoto, a fellow student and friend of Totto-chan, has polio and limited mobility in one leg and arm. Through Totto-chan’s experiences at school, we see powerful lessons of acceptance and unity: everyone is treated the same, and everything is done together. This beautiful message unfolds in many ways, from climbing trees to participating in sports days.
As the film progresses, we begin to sense Japan’s descent into a dark period, signaled by announcements of alliances with Germany and Italy, and eventually, Japan’s direct involvement in the war with Pearl Harbor. We know, from basic history, the direction Japan is heading. Yet, these events are viewed from a child’s perspective, with Totto-chan’s innocence and limited understanding contrasting with the deeper awareness held by the adults around her. This all builds to an emotional climax when Totto-chan experiences sadness, and the horrors occurring around her become more central.
Though the tone grows darker to reflect the times, the film remains visually delightful, with bright colors popping in every frame. The animation is striking and fluid, capturing a genuine childlike quality in Totto-chan and her classmates’ every action. There are moments where the film becomes surreal, using unique animation styles that stand out as vivid portrayals of a child’s perspective—like the wonder of entering a classroom for the first time or the thrill of swimming.
Totto-chan: The Little Girl at the Window is truly spellbinding—a work of art that is both emotional and uplifting. Visually stunning, beautifully told, and unlike any other animated film this year, it stands out as one of the best films of the year.
★★★★★
Played as part of Scotland Loves Anime 2024 / Liliana Ohno, Koji Yakusho, Shun Oguri, Anne Watanabe, Karen Takizawa / Dir: Shinnosuke Yakuwa / Anime Limited
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