Another movie night!
Hey everyone I am back again with my favorite hobby: going to the cinema. I finally get to watch Chiikawa the Movie: The Secret of Mermaid Island, and I honestly wasn’t prepared for how much it would surprise me. Going in, I expected a simple, adorable adventure with plenty of cute moments, but the movie turned out to be much more emotional and thought-provoking than I imagined. It perfectly captures what makes the Chiikawa series so special—its ability to balance sweetness with unexpectedly serious themes.
The animation is absolutely gorgeous. Every scene, from the sparkling ocean to the mysterious Mermaid Island, feels colorful and alive. The soundtrack also deserves praise because it enhances both the lighthearted moments and the emotional scenes without ever feeling overwhelming. The voice actors once again bring Chiikawa, Hachiware, and Usagi to life, making their friendship feel genuine and heartwarming.
What impressed me the most was the story. Although it begins as a cheerful trip filled with delicious food and exciting adventures, the plot gradually reveals a darker mystery surrounding the island and its mermaid legend. Instead of relying on a typical “good versus evil” storyline, the film presents characters with understandable motivations, making the conflicts feel more realistic and emotionally impactful. By the end, I found myself thinking about the choices each character made long after the credits rolled.
Of course, the movie never forgets that it is still Chiikawa. There are plenty of funny moments, adorable expressions, and the quirky humor that fans love. These lighter scenes help balance the emotional weight of the story, making it enjoyable for both children and adults. Even viewers who are new to the franchise can appreciate the lovable characters and beautiful visuals, although longtime fans will probably notice more references and emotional details.
I would give Chiikawa the Movie: The Secret of Mermaid Island a 9.5/10. It’s much more than a cute animated film—it is an adventure about friendship, courage, and the difficult choices people make. If you’re expecting only fluffy entertainment, this movie may surprise you in the best possible way. I left the theater smiling, but also thinking about its deeper messages, which is probably the biggest compliment I can give.
My favorite character in this movie is Chiikawa, they are the cutest one in my opinion, what is yours? Have you watch the cartoon series as well? Let me know later!