Lu Over the Wall (2017) Review

Looking back,Scotland Loves Anime 2017 were thrilled by it. After watching it, I can see why.

Lu Over the Wall follows Kai, a musically gifted yet reserved kid. One day, his classmate Yuho discovers his music online, and while walking to school, she and Kunio invite Kai to their band, Sirens. Kai decides to attend a band practice, which takes place on Merfolk Island. While playing music, Kai notices a mermaid named Lu, who grows human legs whenever she hears music and dances along. Kai and Lu form a friendship that ultimately transforms both the band and the village they live in forever.

To describe this film as gorgeous feels almost like an understatement. Throughout its entire runtime, every frame is nothing short of exquisite and vibrant. The locations, as well as the animation of water and how it interacts with the environment, are unlike anything I’ve seen before. Yuasa’s signature style is evident in everything—from the unusual movements of characters’ legs while dancing to the minimalist character designs. However, what Yuasa does best is balance these simple designs with highly expressive characters. Some might consider his approach over-the-top, but he embraces anime’s animated nature. When a character turns red with anger, for instance, not only does their color shift, but their face also changes shape, becoming exaggerated and even menacing.

Menacing, however, is far from how I’d describe the story; the film is a delight while also touching on the complex, sometimes toxic, aspects of our relationships with animals in society today. When Lu becomes famous around town and online, Yuasa uses this to comment on the exploitation and performative treatment of sea life, criticizing practices seen in places like SeaWorld. At its core, this is a story about friendship and stepping out of one’s comfort zone to find like-minded friends. Watching Kai and Lu bond over their love of music is genuinely sweet and wholesome.

It would be ironic if a film so focused on music had a lackluster soundtrack, but that’s far from the case here. Takatsugu Muramatsu’s score beautifully complements the visuals and enhances the narrative, allowing the story to truly soar.

It would also be remiss not to mention how wonderful the English dub cast is. Michael Sinterniklaas shines as Kai, and the chemistry between Stephanie Sheh and Brandon Engman as Yuho and Kunio, respectively, is infectious.

Lu Over the Wall showcases Masaaki Yuasa at his best, creating a visually stunning and deeply heartfelt narrative that feels uniquely his own. Yuasa is one of the most distinctive voices in anime, and Lu Over the Wall perfectly exemplifies his artistry.

★★★★

Available on Blu-ray and DVD / Michael Sinterniklaas, Stephanie Sheh, Brandon Engman, Christine Marie Cabanos, Alyson Leigh Rosenfeld / Dir: Masaaki Yuasa / Anime Limited / PG