‘Tenshi no tamago’ is a 1985 Japanese animated film directed by Mamoru Oshii (also known for the famous ‘Ghost in the Shell’) which, since its theatrical release, has managed to surprise all viewers with its style reminiscent of a constantly moving pictorial fresco.

The plot centres on a mysterious little girl who carries a large egg with her as she travels through a post-apocalyptic world. Once she arrives in a rather “unusual” town, the girl meets a boy who wanders silently. From that moment on, the stories of the two characters intertwine and they keep each other company for the rest of the film.

One of the things that immediately strikes you is the extraordinary visual beauty. Yoshitaka Amano’s illustrations are unique and manage to create a unique and engaging atmosphere. The soundtrack, composed by Yoshihiro Kanno, is equally impressive and plays a fundamental role in further immersing the viewer in the film. Furthermore, although the plot may seem too minimalist, the continuous shots and very few dialogues between the characters invite the viewer to reflect on profound themes such as the meaning of life and the illusion of religion.

All of this can be quite difficult for some viewers to follow due to the stripped-down narrative and slow pace. The lack of explanatory dialogue may also leave some viewers confused or dissatisfied after a single viewing. For this reason, the film requires a certain degree of patience and open-mindedness to fully appreciate its various layers.

In summary, ‘Tenshi no tamago’ is a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating work of art. Although it may not be suitable for everyone due to its enigmatic nature, it represents a unique cinematic experience that is well worth exploring. If you are willing to immerse yourself in a surreal world and reflect on profound themes, this film is definitely worth watching.

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