| Here we are, the most ambitious title of the producer Kokusai Eigaisha, also known as MIC (Movie International Company Ltd.). It is by far the very first place of my wish list. I don't know how much one of the very rare VHS would fetch for, but I'd be effectively ready to pay 100 or 200$ for it. Unfortunately, it mostly circulates, from Japan-only auctions to a restricted circle of connoisseurs, it seems. The music single and the soundtracks are then more readily available, unfortunately. By the account of those who watched it when in aired, during Christmas 1982, this TV Special is a cross of "City of Joy" with Patrick Swayze and "The fugitive", with an once renowned but disgraced surgeon (the eponymous Doctor Norman) in search of a spiritual makeover while living humbly on a slum area. It is a very sad story. The magnificent opening "Santa Vida" and the presence of Yoshitaka Amano as an animation director make me want to watch it. More than 40 years later after its initial airing, we are many pacing back and forth in hope it sees the light of day, for a much needed digitization... |
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