We Rent Tsukumogami (2018)

In the bustling city of Edo, the story begins with a young man named Tōta Matsukaze, who is struggling to make ends meet. He works at a small antique shop owned by his grandfather, who has recently passed away. Tōta is left with the responsibility of managing the shop, which specializes in tsukumogami--objects that have gained a spirit after a hundred years of existence. Tōta is initially skeptical about the existence of these spirits, but he soon finds himself drawn into their world.

One day, while cleaning the shop, Tōta accidentally awakens a tsukumogami named Kitarō, a sentient umbrella. Kitarō is cheerful and eager to help Tōta, but he also has a mischievous side. Tōta is taken aback by Kitarō's personality and begins to question the nature of the tsukumogami. As Tōta learns more about Kitarō, he discovers that the umbrella has a deep-seated desire to protect its owner and help him succeed.

As Tōta navigates the challenges of running the shop, he encounters various tsukumogami, each with their own unique personalities and backstories. One notable encounter is with a tsukumogami named Kōzō, a lantern spirit who is more serious and protective than Kitarō. Kōzō warns Tōta about the dangers of neglecting the tsukumogami and the importance of treating them with respect. This interaction deepens Tōta's understanding of the spirits and their connection to the objects they inhabit.

Tōta's life takes a turn when he meets a mysterious girl named Yuki, who is searching for her lost family heirloom. Yuki's determination to find the heirloom resonates with Tōta, and he decides to help her. Together, they embark on a journey through the city, encountering various challenges and obstacles along the way. Tōta's growing feelings for Yuki add an emotional layer to his character, as he grapples with his responsibilities and his desire to connect with her.

During their search, Tōta and Yuki come across a rival antique dealer, who is also interested in the same heirloom. This dealer, driven by greed, attempts to sabotage their efforts. A confrontation ensues, where Tōta, Kitarō, and Kōzō must work together to outsmart the dealer. The scene is filled with tension as they devise a plan to retrieve the heirloom, showcasing Tōta's growth as he learns to trust his tsukumogami companions.

As the story progresses, Tōta discovers that the heirloom holds a significant power that can affect the balance between the human world and the spirit world. This revelation adds urgency to their quest, as they must ensure that the heirloom does not fall into the wrong hands. Tōta's internal conflict intensifies as he realizes the weight of his responsibilities, not only to Yuki but also to the tsukumogami who depend on him.

In a climactic showdown, Tōta, Yuki, Kitarō, and Kōzō confront the rival dealer in a dramatic battle. The dealer unleashes a powerful spirit to aid him, leading to a chaotic confrontation. Tōta must summon all his courage and resourcefulness to protect Yuki and the tsukumogami. The fight is filled with dynamic action sequences, showcasing Tōta's growth as he learns to harness the strengths of his companions.

Ultimately, Tōta and his friends manage to defeat the dealer and reclaim the heirloom. In the aftermath, Tōta reflects on his journey and the bonds he has formed with the tsukumogami and Yuki. He realizes that he has grown not only as a shopkeeper but also as a person, learning the importance of friendship, trust, and responsibility.

The story concludes with Tōta embracing his role as a caretaker of the tsukumogami, vowing to protect them and honor their existence. He and Yuki share a heartfelt moment, hinting at the potential for a deeper relationship as they continue their adventures together. The final scene leaves viewers with a sense of hope and the promise of new beginnings in the world of tsukumogami.

In the ending of "We Rent Tsukumogami," the main characters confront their pasts and the significance of their relationships with the tsukumogami. The protagonist, Tōta, comes to terms with his feelings and the importance of the tsukumogami in his life. The series concludes with a sense of resolution as Tōta and his friends embrace their futures, acknowledging the bonds they have formed.

As the final episodes unfold, the atmosphere is thick with tension and anticipation. Tōta, the young man who has been navigating the complexities of life with the tsukumogami, finds himself at a crossroads. The weight of his responsibilities and the emotional turmoil surrounding his relationships with the tsukumogami come to a head.

In the first scene, Tōta stands in the dimly lit room of the tsukumogami rental shop, surrounded by the familiar faces of his companions. The air is heavy with unspoken words as they prepare for a final confrontation with the antagonistic forces that threaten their existence. Tōta's heart races; he feels a mix of fear and determination. He knows that this moment will define not only his future but also the futures of the tsukumogami he has come to care for deeply.

As they venture out, the group is met with a series of challenges that test their resolve. Each tsukumogami showcases their unique abilities, working in unison with Tōta and his friends. The visuals are striking, with vibrant colors illuminating the night as the tsukumogami unleash their powers. Tōta feels a surge of pride as he witnesses their strength, realizing that they are not just tools but companions who have shared in his journey.

In a pivotal scene, Tōta faces off against the main antagonist, who embodies the fear and misunderstanding surrounding the tsukumogami. The confrontation is intense, filled with emotional stakes as Tōta confronts his own insecurities and the prejudices that have plagued his community. The dialogue is charged, revealing Tōta's growth as he stands firm in his belief that the tsukumogami deserve respect and recognition.

As the battle reaches its climax, Tōta's friends rally around him, showcasing their unwavering support. The bond they share becomes a powerful force, allowing them to overcome the antagonist's dark intentions. In this moment, Tōta realizes that he is not alone; he is part of a larger family that transcends the boundaries of human and tsukumogami.

In the aftermath of the confrontation, the atmosphere shifts from one of conflict to one of healing. Tōta and the tsukumogami gather together, reflecting on their journey. The emotional weight of their experiences hangs in the air, but there is also a sense of hope. Tōta acknowledges the importance of the tsukumogami in his life, expressing gratitude for their companionship and the lessons they have taught him.

As the series draws to a close, Tōta stands at the threshold of a new beginning. The rental shop, once a place of uncertainty, now feels like a home filled with warmth and acceptance. The tsukumogami, having found their place in the world, are no longer seen as mere objects but as valued friends. Tōta's heart swells with a sense of belonging, and he looks forward to the future with optimism.

In the final moments, the camera pans out, capturing the vibrant scene of the rental shop bustling with life. Tōta, surrounded by his friends, smiles as they share stories and laughter. The bonds they have forged are unbreakable, and the message of acceptance and understanding resonates strongly. Each character, having faced their fears and embraced their identities, steps into the future with renewed purpose, leaving behind the shadows of their pasts.

In the anime "We Rent Tsukumogami," there is indeed a post-credit scene that adds a whimsical touch to the series. After the main credits roll, viewers are treated to a brief moment that showcases the lively interactions between the tsukumogami and their human companions.

In this scene, the camera pans over the bustling streets of the town, where various tsukumogami are seen engaging in playful antics. One notable moment features a tsukumogami resembling a traditional Japanese umbrella, who playfully opens and closes itself, causing a nearby character to dodge and laugh. This light-hearted exchange highlights the bond between humans and tsukumogami, emphasizing the theme of coexistence that runs throughout the series.

The scene encapsulates the joy and camaraderie that the characters have developed, leaving viewers with a sense of warmth and a smile as they reflect on the adventures shared throughout the episodes. It serves as a delightful reminder of the unique relationships formed between the tsukumogami and their human counterparts, reinforcing the series' charm and emotional depth.

The tsukumogami in 'We Rent Tsukumogami' are objects that have gained a spirit after existing for over a hundred years. They embody the emotions and memories of their previous owners, which adds depth to their characters. Each tsukumogami has its own unique personality and backstory, often reflecting the life of the object before it became a spirit. This significance is explored through various interactions with the main characters, particularly as they navigate their relationships with these spirits.

Tōru starts as a somewhat aloof and pragmatic character, focused on his family's tsukumogami rental business. As the series progresses, he becomes more empathetic and understanding of the tsukumogami's struggles and desires. His interactions with the spirits, especially with characters like the playful and mischievous tsukumogami, help him confront his own feelings of loneliness and responsibility, leading to significant personal growth.

Kōhei is a pivotal character who serves as Tōru's friend and confidant. He often provides comic relief but also has moments of depth, revealing his own insecurities and aspirations. Kōhei's interactions with the tsukumogami help to highlight the emotional stakes of the story, as he learns to appreciate the value of relationships, both with the spirits and with Tōru.

The tsukumogami face numerous challenges, primarily stemming from human misunderstanding and fear. Many humans view them as mere objects or are frightened by their supernatural abilities. This leads to conflicts where the tsukumogami must prove their worth and intentions, often resulting in emotional turmoil as they seek acceptance and recognition from the humans around them.

Tōru's relationship with the tsukumogami evolves from one of mere business to a deep, emotional connection. Initially, he sees them as just part of the family business, but as he learns their stories and struggles, he begins to form bonds with them. This evolution is marked by moments of vulnerability and understanding, where Tōru realizes that the tsukumogami are not just spirits but beings with their own hopes and fears, leading to a more profound respect and friendship.

"We Rent Tsukumogami" is generally considered family-friendly, but it does contain some elements that may be sensitive for younger viewers or those who are particularly sensitive. Here are a few aspects to consider:

1. Supernatural Themes: The show revolves around tsukumogami, which are objects that have gained a spirit after being used for a long time. Some viewers may find the concept of inanimate objects coming to life unsettling.

2. Mild Horror Elements: There are scenes that may evoke a sense of unease or mild horror, particularly when dealing with the backstories of certain tsukumogami, which can include themes of abandonment or loss.

3. Emotional Struggles: Characters often face emotional challenges, such as loneliness, regret, and the desire for connection. These themes may resonate deeply and could be upsetting for some viewers.

4. Conflict and Tension: There are moments of conflict between characters, including misunderstandings and confrontations that may create tension.

5. Visuals of Aging and Wear: The show features objects that are worn down or damaged, which may evoke feelings of sadness or nostalgia.

While these elements are not overtly graphic or violent, they may require parental guidance for younger audiences or those who are sensitive to emotional or supernatural themes.