I, Tsushima

I, Tsushima originated as a popular manga series by Opūnokiyudai, which began serialization in 2017. The work centers on a stray cat named Tsushima and his interactions with an elderly woman who rescues him, blending surreal comedy with a grounded, observant take on feline behavior. Its rapid rise in popularity among cat lovers led to an anime adaptation in 2021, produced by the animation studio Fanworks in collaboration with Space Neko Company.

The 2021 television series adaptation was directed by Jun Aoki, who opted for a distinctive aesthetic that preserves the raw, sketch-like quality of the original manga illustrations. By utilizing a minimalist animation style, the show emphasizes the quirky character designs and the humorous internal monologues of the cats. Upon its release, the series was well-received for its gentle pacing and its ability to capture the authentic, often mischievous spirit of feline companionship, solidifying its place as a niche favorite in the slice-of-life genre.