Hashire Melos

“Hashire Melos” (1979): A Timeless Tale of Trust and Friendship

If you’re into classic anime with deep themes and emotional storytelling, Hashire Melos (1979) is a hidden gem you shouldn’t miss. This standalone short film, produced by Gakken, is a condensed adaptation of Osamu Dazai’s beloved story Run, Melos!—a tale that’s been retold in various forms over the decades. While it might not be as flashy as modern anime, its simplicity and heartfelt message about trust and sacrifice make it a standout piece.

The Story: A Promise Worth Dying For

Set in ancient Syracuse, Hashire Melos follows the journey of Melos, a young shepherd who’s wrongly accused of plotting against the tyrannical king. He’s sentenced to death but begs for a three-day reprieve to attend his sister’s wedding. The king agrees—on one condition: Melos must leave his best friend, a sculptor named Celine, as a hostage. If Melos doesn’t return in time, Celine will be executed in his place.

What unfolds is a race against time, filled with obstacles that test Melos’s resolve. The film’s tension lies not just in whether Melos will make it back, but in whether he should. The king, a cynic who believes all humans are inherently selfish, bets that Melos will abandon his friend. But Melos’s unwavering determination to keep his promise challenges this belief, making for a powerful narrative about loyalty and human nature.

Why It Stands Out

1. A Simple Yet Profound Message
   Fans on MyAnimeList and other forums often praise Hashire Melos for its exploration of trust. One viewer wrote:

   “Trusting a stranger is nearly impossible, but the sculptor’s painful past and need to believe in someone made it feasible. This is one of the most beautiful friendships I’ve seen in anime.”

The film doesn’t shy away from showing the darker sides of humanity—paranoia, betrayal, and cruelty—but it balances this with hope. Another fan noted:

“Despite all the horrible things in the world, there’s hope in something better. We should strive for it, even if it means trusting a complete stranger.”

1. Classic Animation with Heart
   Though the animation is dated by today’s standards (many fans lament the lack of a high-quality remaster), the artistry still shines. The Greco-Roman setting is beautifully rendered, and the character designs—especially the expressive faces of Melos and Celine—add depth to their emotions. One commenter pointed out:

   “The animation is pretty good for an old movie. It’s a shame we don’t have a Blu-ray version.”

2. A Story That Resonates Across Generations
   Hashire Melos is based on a story that’s been adapted multiple times in Japan, much like The Dog of Flanders. Its universal themes make it timeless. As one fan put it:

   “The Japanese really love this story. It’s like ‘The Dog of Flanders’—a childhood favorite that stays with you.”

What Fans Are Saying

The discussions around Hashire Melos reveal a mix of nostalgia and admiration for its execution. Here’s a snapshot of fan reactions:
– On the Ending: Some felt the conclusion was a bit too neat. One viewer mentioned:

“The ending felt consequence-free. I wish we’d seen more of the aftermath.”
Others, however, loved the emotional payoff, calling it “intense and touching.”

• Comparisons to Other Adaptations: Many fans prefer this version over the 1981 TV adaptation, citing better pacing and emotional impact. A commenter noted:

  “This one was executed better! Both are nice, but this one feels more complete.”

• Voice Acting: The cast, including Kouichi Yamadera (who later voiced Spike Spiegel in Cowboy Bebop), received praise for bringing the characters to life.

Final Verdict: A Must-Watch for Classic Anime Lovers

Hashire Melos might not be the most visually stunning anime out there, but its story is a masterclass in emotional storytelling. It’s a film that makes you think—about trust, about promises, and about what it means to be human. As one fan perfectly summarized:

“An absolute gem of a movie. God knows why it’s rated so low here—it’s a masterpiece.”

If you’re looking for something short but impactful, give Hashire Melos a chance. Just be prepared for a bittersweet journey that’ll stay with you long after the credits roll.

Rating: 8.5/10
“A beautiful, underrated classic that deserves more love.”