The Structure and Characteristics of the Japanese Animation “Suzume's Locking Up” as a Road Movie

This study examines the structure and characteristics of the Japanese animation “Suzume's Locking Up” as a road movie genre. The main findings are as follows: Firstly, the narrative characteristics within the animation were analyzed through travel motivation, conflict structure, and conflict resolution process. The internal conflict structure appeared as the past Suzume constantly torments the present Suzume. Suzume resolves this internal conflict by traveling to various abandoned places in Japan to prevent earthquakes. Secondly, conventions in the animation were examined by dividing them into spatiality of travel destinations, the embodiment of others, and sudden events. Spatiality is shown by Suzume recognizing spaces through TV weather forecasts or traffic signs while traveling across Japan. The embodiment of others is revealed when Suzume searches for her destination on her smartphone map, indicating she is a stranger in new spaces. Sudden events include the male protagonist character Sohta turning into a chair due to magic, the cat Dainji being able to speak, or Suzume having to switch to a bicycle because her car breaks down on the way to the final destination. Thirdly, examining the characters reveals that Suzume appears as a female high school student and the sole protagonist. She only has an aunt as family, which reflects a common characteristic of incomplete family relationships in road movies. Finally, communication tools in the animation reflect real-world characteristics with smartphones. Various means of transportation, such as ships, trains, bullet trains, bicycles, and cars, are also depicted. Orientation devices, like Dainji guiding Suzume's journey step by step, help her navigate her long journey. This animation showcases typical road movie structures and unfolds as a mythological narrative combining real and virtual spaces. This animation, therefore, adheres to the classic road movie framework while integrating elements of reality and fantasy, creating a unique blend of mythological storytelling.