A belated, yet remarkable directorial debut for the producer Akio Nishizawa is an award-winning historical drama set in the Meiji era and adopted from Kazuo Daijō’s novel. Its story revolves around a young man, Nitaro, who loses his eyesight at the age of eight and later becomes the creator of Tsugaru-shamisen style, through many tribulations and by virtue of his perseverance. In portraying Nitaro’s zeal and the vanity of his competitors, Nishizawa demonstrates a keen sense of humanity and characterization, as well as the clarity of expression. Simultaneously, he represents the Japanese society of the time – class distinctions, the extent of Western influence and theclash between the modern and the traditional – whereby he achieves a perfect balance of form and style.

Intoxicating, touching, mystical and ethereal melodies of a "three-stringed guitar" are performed by the shamisen virtuoso Hiromitsu Agatsuma, so "Nitaboh" is the anime that should not only be seen, but intently listened to as well. Its soundscapes establish a Zen-like atmosphere complemented by the calming imagery of the semi-realistic character design and beautifully painted backgrounds.