Hippo Director's Zoo Diary

The story follows aging zookeeper Nishiyama Toshio as he navigates the challenges of mentoring two young trainees: the short-tempered former chef Takeshi Ishizawa and the gentle vet Ichiro Hasegawa. Their seemingly simple job becomes a series of unexpected trials, including an escaped pelican, a dying camel, and the joyful arrival of a baby hippo.

Produced by Toei Animation and Fuji Television Network, Hippo Director's Zoo Diary is notable for its engaging storyline and character development. With a runtime of 75 minutes, the film offers a compact yet rich viewing experience, showcasing the ups and downs of life in a zoo. The film's animation style is representative of its era, appealing to both nostalgic viewers and new fans of anime alike.