New Short Anime by MAPPA and CONTRAIL Brings Awareness to Young Carers

Japanese anime studio MAPPA, in partnership with its affiliate Contrail, has released a short anime titled Kikasete Hoshii Kimi no Koto (I Want to Hear About You), focusing on the experiences of young carers (children and adolescents who take on caregiving responsibilities within their families). The short movie is now streaming on the official YouTube channel of Tokyo’s Nakano Ward.

Bringing Up a Social Issue in Japan

Young carers, as recognized by Japanese law, are minors who undertake significant care duties for family members, often at the expense of their own education, social life, and personal development. These situations can lead to isolation and long-term social challenges.

The short anime is part of a broader initiative launched by Nakano Ward after it was chosen as a model participant in the Cabinet Office’s public-private platform for addressing regional loneliness and social isolation. MAPPA and CONTRAIL joined the project in support of its goals, aiming to provide a means for young carers to reflect on their own situations and possibly seek help through shared stories.

Storyline and Themes

The anime centers on Yuma, a primary school student, who comes to understand the realities of being a young carer through his friendship with Kenta, a classmate burdened by caregiving duties at home. The video aims to highlight the importance of human connection and empathy, encouraging viewers to consider the unseen struggles some children face in their daily lives.

You can watch the short anime below.

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Exhibition to Accompany the Release

Alongside the anime’s launch, a special exhibition will also be held from April 26 to June 26 at the Nakano East Library. The exhibit will feature original production materials from the anime, including storyboards and character designs, giving insight into the creative process and the messages behind the animation.

Source: Tokyo’s Nakano Ward Official YouTube via Comic Natalie
©CONTRAIL/MAPPA