Panda! Go Panda! 1972
"Go Panda, Go!"
Directed by the legendary Isao Takahata, *Panda! Go Panda! (1972)* is a delightful slice of early Studio Ghibli magic that blends whimsy, fantasy, and heartwarming family chaos.
Director: Isao Takahata
Cast
Kazuko Sugiyama
Mimiko (voice)
Kazuo Kumakura
Papa Panda (voice)
Yoshiko Ohta
Panny / Tiny (voice)
Yuko Maruyama
Panny (voice)
Yasuo Yamada
Policeman (voice)
Osamu Ichikawa
Bully (voice)
Tetsuya Kaji
Store Clerk (voice)
Hiroko Maruyama
Nana (Friend A) (voice)
Yoneko Matsukane
Cayo (Friend B) (voice)
Eken Mine
Teacher (voice)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Panda! Go Panda! (1972) about?
The film follows Mimiko, a spirited young girl living with her panda father and his son, Panny, who pretends to be a stuffed bear to avoid trouble. When Panny's true identity is almost exposed at school, hilarious chaos ensues, leading to a heartwarming friendship with a stray tiger cub named Tiny.
Who directed Panda! Go Panda!?
Isao Takahata, a visionary behind Studio Ghibli classics like *Grave of the Fireflies*, directed this enchanting animated short.
Who stars in Panda! Go Panda!?
The film features Kazuko Sugiyama as Mimiko, Kazuo Kumakura as Mimiko's father, and Yasuo Yamada as the voice of Panny, among others.
Is Panda! Go Panda! (1972) worth watching?
With its heartfelt themes, charming animation, and infectious humor, *Panda! Go Panda!* is a hidden gem for fans of classic animation. Its lighthearted yet touching story makes it a perfect watch for all ages, offering a nostalgic trip into the whimsical world of early Japanese animation.
How long is Panda! Go Panda!?
The runtime is 73 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Panda! Go Panda! (1972) — A Whimsical Animated Adventure for All Ages
Directed by the legendary Isao Takahata, *Panda! Go Panda! (1972)* is a delightful slice of early Studio Ghibli magic that blends whimsy, fantasy, and heartwarming family chaos. The story follows Mimiko, a cheerful young girl whose unconventional household includes her father and his mischievous panda son, Panny, who masquerades as a teddy bear to keep Mimiko out of trouble. When Panny's antics accidentally expose his true nature at school, a series of comedic mishaps unfolds, culminating in an unlikely friendship with Tiny, a stray tiger cub. With its playful tone and gentle humor, the film captures the joy of childhood imagination while celebrating the bonds that tie families together, even the most unusual ones.
Crafted with the signature warmth and creativity that would later define Ghibli's legacy, *Panda! Go Panda!* offers a unique 73-minute escape into a world where animals and humans coexist in a vibrant, dreamlike setting. The animation, though from an earlier era, sparkles with charm, making it a hidden gem for fans of classic animation and anyone who appreciates stories about found family and the magic of the everyday.
