“If only fire and water can be as one like the reflection of fire on water.” Released by Sanrio films in 1981, Sea Prince and the Fire Child (Shiriusu no densetsu) is a beautiful retelling of Romeo and Juliet. Created and produced by Shintaro Tsuji, the founder of Sanrio, the film proves that Sanrio is not only a company that makes great Hello Kitty paraphernalia, but also touching animated films that cater to the young at heart.
Unlike the Little Mermaid, which pleases the American audience by turning it into a lighthearted comedy when the original story is a tragic one, Sea Prince and the Fire Child tells the story like it is. Love, friendship, jealousy, honor, and courage are all central themes to the story.
The siblings Oceanus the God of Water, and Hyperia the Goddess of Fire, used to live together in harmony until one day Algaroc the God of Wind, split them apart by turning them against one another. After this incident, the fire and water people are forbidden to see each other. Syrius, a young innocent sea prince, ventures out to the edge of the ocean, meets Malta the fire child and eventually falls in love. A water child cannot survive the bright sun light. Similarly a fire child cannot be touched by water. The two young hearts find themselves isolated from their friends and parents, only longing for the night where they can see each other by the seashore, far away from suspicious eyes.
The audience is never quite sure if the forbidden love will succeed in the end. There always seems to be a turn of events in the most desperate of times that keep the audience’s hope up.
In the age of computer graphics animation, it’s a delight to see hand drawn animation cells in action. All characters move with fluidity and have great facial expressions. The background scenery is colorful in a style similar to the Disney film Fantasia that debuted in 1941. The water and fire worlds contrast each other greatly, further showing that there is no middle ground for the young couple.
Besides the wonderful animation, the music works exceptionally in capturing the mood of the different scenes. The main music theme is unforgettable. It’s been stuck in my head ever since I’ve first watched the film in childhood.
In our jaded society where divorces are frequent and friendships are few, Sea Prince and the Fire Child is a film for adults and children alike, and reminds us of the importance of friendship, love, and doing what’s right. Unfortunately the film is out of print. Good luck in getting yourself a copy!
