Urusei Yatsura Movie 1: Only You

Released in 1983, Urusei Yatsura: Only You served as the first feature-length theatrical outing for Rumiko Takahashi’s iconic manga and anime franchise. Produced by Studio Pierrot and directed by Mamoru Oshii, the film capitalized on the massive popularity of the television series that had premiered two years prior. The production moved the chaotic, supernatural romantic comedy into a cinematic scope, introducing the original character Elle to challenge the central relationship between Lum and Ataru.

Mamoru Oshii’s direction for this project marked an early point in his career before he became known for his more philosophical works like Ghost in the Shell. He leaned into the surrealist and frenetic humor characteristic of the source material while utilizing the higher budget of a theatrical production to refine the visual presentation. The film was well-received by fans of the series, effectively establishing the precedent for the annual Urusei Yatsura theatrical releases that would follow throughout the decade.