Chibi Maruko-chan (1990) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

Release, runtime and language

1990 · 94 mins · Japanese

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Directed by

Yumiko Suda

Starring

Megumi Urawa, Nobuo Tobita, Kappei Yamaguchi, Kyousei Tsukui, Yuri Amano, Miki Narahashi

Maruko, a mischievous nine‑year‑old, constantly teases her grandfather, agonises over how to spend her allowance, and dreads sitting beside boys she finds unattractive. Like any child, she talks, feels and behaves authentically. When the second term starts, she and her classmates regroup; Maruko’s circle contains two trouble‑making boys, placing her as their subordinate and increasing the pressure she feels at school.