The Eccentric Family

The Eccentric Family, or Uchōten Kazoku, was produced by P.A. Works and released in 2013 as an adaptation of the novel by Tomihiko Morimi. Set in a contemporary Kyoto where tanuki, tengu, and humans coexist in a hidden society, the series was directed by Masayuki Yoshihara. The production aimed to capture the whimsical yet melancholic tone of Morimi’s prose, utilizing a vibrant, painterly color palette that highlights the architectural beauty and seasonal changes of the Kyoto setting.

The character designs were handled by Kousuke Kawazura, based on the original concepts by Kōji Kumeta. The series received significant critical acclaim for its intricate world-building and its unique exploration of familial grief and reconciliation, moving beyond standard folklore tropes. It was noted for its nuanced character development and became a landmark title for P.A. Works, eventually securing a second season that continued the narrative exploration of the Shimogamo family’s complicated legacy.