Hasegawa Machiko's Story

The film follows 6-year-old Machiko Hasegawa, who lives in Fukuoka in 1926. A bright and creative child, she enjoys drawing and playing outdoors. The story takes a turn when her father, a mining engineer, passes away, prompting her family to relocate to Tokyo. At 15, she begins her apprenticeship with manga artist Tagawa.

As the narrative unfolds, the impacts of war loom over Machiko’s life, leading her family back to Fukuoka. Toward the end of the war, Machiko is approached by a local newspaper to publish a serial manga. Facing creative challenges, she finds inspiration while visiting Momochi Seaside Park, ultimately leading to the creation of her famous series "Sazae-san." This film presents a significant chapter in the development of manga in Japan, making it a notable piece for collectors interested in the genre's history.