I'd like to point out that the original fairytale's main moral is "don't trust strangers", and Tomoki showed that while yes that's true, strangers can be dangerous, they also showed that sometimes danger takes the form of people we know and hold dear. Sometimes the worst cases of abuse and trauma come from the people we're supposed to trust and love, and I adore that message and truth
That is totally true, it's an excellent addition to the original message. People don't like to hear it, but in most cases of child abuse, the perpetrator is someone close (up to 90% if you count educators, teachers, babysitters, etc... And at least 70% are from the family). It's a hard to swallow truth. The "white van man with candy" is really the odd case.
It's not that hard. Grimm fairy tales, even at their darkest, are still straightforward and whimsical. There are no twists, no sinister turns. Things pretty much are what they are in virtually all the tales. Taking them down a 'grimdark' path is simple.
@@Alondro77 The Juniper Tree’ is a disturbing account of a young boy who is murdered by his stepmother - clearly, stepmothers are often evil in these stories. Knowing that the son will inherit everything upon his father’s death, the stepmother decapitates the young boy when he reaches into a box for an apple. Not wanting anyone to know what happened, the stepmother devises a plan to make her daughter believe she did it, and then, the stepmother cooks the poor boy and feeds him to his father! The young girl then buries the bones underneath the juniper tree where the little boy’s mother is also buried.
seeing the comments filled with victims of child abuse is heartbreaking. it's so unfair and infuriating, I can't fathom how anyone could do something so vile to a little kid. I don't think I've ever cried this hard to an animated short. it's a tragic masterpiece of animation and I still can't bear to watch the scene of the father holding him down without shrinking into myself. it's nauseating and absolutely horrific.
My dad had to stop seeing me & my older sister. He allegedly harmed her, but since she can’t probably talk, she didn’t say what happened. I can’t see him either, because even though he do anything to me, In case the allegations are true, he can’t be near me. ( I usually don’t like talking about this on TH-cam, but I feel safe talking about it here )
THIS is why I love animation. I’m so sick of people who blatantly says “it’s just for kids.” Or are mad that any non-“live action” thing ISN’T for kids but has adult themes… There’s just some things that CAN’T be portrayed by humans like it can be in art.
The mirror scene hit hard. Those that have childhood trauma like that know what that feeling was. The realisation of your trauma, it is pushed back until something triggers is and it comes back and suddenly you are aware of the trauma that has been controling your life. It feels exactly like that scene.
Yeah, it does. You see all your scars, and how abnormal you might be. In a way, though, the feeling is comforting. At least it was for me, I can't speak for others of the same predicament.
I remember bawling in the shower for hours after I unrepressed being sexually abused, and it still effects me to this day. Child trauma doesn’t go away, no matter how much help you get. You just have to walk in a world and let it follow you, your only goal not to try and rid it, but rather to not let it get in front of you.
I'm so glad that, despite being extremely different species, the goats jump in to help the human child. Not a lot of victims get that type of help and have to live with that turama alone and sometimes they have to continue to live through it over and over. It just goes to show that, if you know someone is a victim, help them.
Someone said "the less fur you have, the less innocence you have." Meaning due to Natsuki father's sexual abuse, he lost all his innocence. So i think thats why he looks the most human.
True, although it's not always that simple unfortunately. Way too many abusers are good at hiding the abuse, and the victim is almost always too afraid of the abuser to tell anyone. And the abuser might respond by making the abuse worse. In those cases, your only choice is to just simply give the victim as much support as you can and hope that they can get out of the situation soon.
@@PlayerZeroStart Sadly true, and it should also be addressed that most abuse victims fear societal judgement, as that also makes it hard to come forward. People that are abuse victims are humans with shades of gray to them and their own virtues/flaws, just as every human is. And sadly, society judges harshly if victims aren't publically portrayed in specific ways to garner sympathy/biases, otherwise they face just as much (if not worse) abuse from society as they did from their abusers. Considering how badly most humans treat each other in general, it's little wonder how hard it is for abuse victims to come forward.
That short did NOT go the way I expected. Also, that twist humanises (goatises?) the mother, explaining why she'd seemingly randomly kidnapped a human child, dressed him like a little goat, renamed him after her dead son and decided to make him her son. At first, it portrays her in a bad light, but the twist clarifies and explains so much without even needing to. She must have been out in the woods, noticed the boy and his father and she'd recognised the signs of a predator, so she took the boy to save him, dressed him like a goat to hide his appearance and called him by her dead son's name so, if the father was nearby, wouldn't notice so she could get the boy to her home where he'd be safe from the predator. Holy heck, that's good story telling
I think you are reading too much into it. He wore that cloth from the start, so it can be more easily assumed that the traumatized mother mistook him for her child. I mean, she talked to him as if he was after all. That is also the reason why this work, while great, is flawed. We have after all the mother kidnapping a boy. But I guess it was alright because of the mere coincidence that the father was abusive? That is a harmful message. Her kidnapping was bad, even if it turned out good in the end. And even assuming, she thinks the boy is abused, kidnapping him because she thinks he "might" be abused is no justification. After all, the boy could simply have been a jerk and the dad was fuming at him because of it. There is so much that can go wrong. It all hinges on the boy actually being abused, heavily. What she did was immoral and illegal, albeit understandable as she seemed to be mentally unstable.
I didn’t even think of it like that! At first I thought she genuinely just mistook him for her son but when you put it that way it makes more sense! She’s wanting to protect him!
I assumed the first goat was hunted and skinned by humans and the kid was wearing his wool and that's why the mother and the other goats mistook him for their own
I also like how the mother grew to be courageous. In the being after the incident, she is fearful, cautious, and filled with anxiety. All women can relate to her after any aggressive incident. Then she leaves her kids confident that they will be okay and walks out with equipment to protect herself.
I don't blame her, she just lost a child (Toruku was the eldest of her children) and appears to been in denial over his death. Losing a child is the worst feeling for a parent (especially a mother).
I think the mother leaving by herself with a bear trap is very clever. It reminds me of bear spray/mace which many women will use to protect themselves when alone.
As someone who has been sexually assaulted as a child, the way that this animation is concluded was perfect, even though it breaks my heart just how much I sympathize with the kids. This is the first time I've heard of this animation and I'm definitely not gonna watch from how much trauma I still hold, but this animator is very talented and I'm glad that he put such a healing light at the end of "My Little Goat" it brings me hope that I can still go out in the world and regain trust and hope for myself while still being able to protect myself.
for me the strongest moment was when, after defeating the abusive father, the mother hugged toruku/natsuki and then the other children came to share the hug, the more disfigured sister put her little hand on the human skin and took off the cover he gave her, as if she felt they're the same, even though she lost her wool. It made me tear up immediately
His name is Natsuki the reason why he was called Toruku was because the mother was still grieving over losing the eldest (you can see his corpse inside the wolf that's halfway digested in the beginning) so she started projecting until the end she was able to move on and adopt Natsu into the family.
@@kyaos_Meteor I know. That's why I wrote Toruku/Natsuki, because in the short they call the human both. witch one ends up being the final name for him does not really matter.
@@Pandastuck for some it does matter because Natsuki is his birth name while Toruku is the name of somebody's dead child so in the finale of him being called by his birth name is a sign that he's finally accepted and isn't being used like some sort of replacement to fill in gaps so in the end he's called Natsuki only. (There's even a scene where Natsu tries to explain that he isn't Toruku)
One very dark thing I noticed was that I believe the taser was not the mother's. It was the dad's who dropped it when he approached the boy. Giving off the horrible implication that he probably used it on him to make him behave and that's where the marks in his arms came from.
I think it was the mom’s, she dropped her bag in shock when she walked in and saw what was happening (hence the scattered strawberries) The marks on Natsuki’s arm looked more like fingerprint bruises than taser marks
what also hit me personally, is that at the end, we see that the house is still destroyed. we can safely assume the ending scene takes place at least a few weeks or even months after the father/wolf incident, so you'd think they had enough time to clean the house. for me it shows how the victims, despite appearing okay, still have their house/private life ruined and destroyed. because appearing fine, wearing a mask or hiding your scars, doesn't fix the trauma inside you
At the same time, you can see that the goats were starting to regrow their wool as well, along with all of them having their bright colorful hoods to cover them. I can appreciate how it showed both aspects at the same time. You can tell a lot of effort and heart went into this!
While the message is endearing, I still wonder if the human boy ever saw his mother again. He was a basically kidnapped and forced to live amongst the goat family.
@@theopulentone1650 yeah, true. though for me it could be a metaphor of trauma survivors finding comfort in living/surrounding themselves with other trauma survivors, since they understand each other's pain the best. but i wonder, where is the boy's mother...
I watched this and was SO happy when i saw that you were reviewing it. I was abused sexually as a child and teenager but dont worry im an adult and fine now. This made me cry, churned my stomach and kind of triggered some trauma responses in me when i watched it .But I loved it because it was so effective in what it was showing, there are lots of layers to the symbolism and it made me feel oddly better after watching it. One of the things I at least interpreted was the level of digestion each of the children experienced, a lamb's coat is a symbol of purity and innocence ,the eldest lamb had most of her wool gone and each of her siblings had more wool the less time they were in the wolf's stomach. I think this might be a way of showing how a child's purity and innocence is taken away from them when theyre sexually abused...and when she saw herself in the mirror and had to come to terms with what she "looked like" and what happened. Really hit home for me.
I like how the sheep come together to form a fuzzy mech to fight the wolf. Simultaneously funny but also beautiful to see them stand up to protect the boy.
As a CSA survivor this short deeply resonated with me, it was so hard to watch because of the brutal way it was portrayed. And about how horrifyingly relatable it was, I became a shivering mess with the wolf/human scene, because yes, that's exactly how that felt. But even so, not matter how hard this short was to watch, it perfectly portrayed a very real and very dark situation, and I hope this helps bring some awareness that sometimes the "wolfs" can be people one thinks they can trust. Also I love that animation is taking a firmer stance on not being "only for kids".
I really appreciate that, as dark in tone as the film is, it still has a happy ending. Bad things happen, but it can get better. We need more of that, and less "everyone died, everything sucks forever" endings in media.
I feel the opposite. I love love LOVE happy endings, but whether the ending is happy, sad or bitter sweet shouldn't be a merit of quality. There are a few pieces of media that's some of my favorite out there that have bitter sweet or sad endings but I still consider masterpieces in their own right.
Domestic abuse survivor here. I find most mainstream shows and media abhorrent. I love dark things and art that forces you to confront the dark side of humanity- and yourself. Thank you for sharing this.
Right? I love reading dark stories and the "dead dove do not eat" but only in the view of the victims or views of recovery But so often this tag/kind of content is either miss used/used to glorafiy such activities or labeled as horrible to read because people can't understand reading form a point of recovering/relating
It's not common to see animations that talk about sexual abuse towards children as young as Natsuki, sometimes even younger. It's sad seeing how this actually happens to people all over the world, all ages, all races, and all genders. Thank you for making this animation, it allows people to start noticing these things even though they've been happening for decades, unnoticed. It also allows people who have had these kinds of experiences to be heard.
@@viviaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaan also "all over the world", makes ya wonder if not culture, what causes people to be so shitty? Something I hadn't really considered
I'm so sorry that you, your mother and your three sisters had to go through such a huge trauma, I hope you're ok and your psychological is stable at least, I wish you peace in your life and that you don't have to go through that again . must have been traumatizing, take care okay!
This is so beautiful but at the same time, absolutely horrifying. The father taking off Natsuki's clothing and acting like that to him was just revolting, and you portrayed all the symbolism so well. Amazingly done.
As a victim of sexual assault, this hit me really hard. I cried a lot after watching this. And yet, I still felt that sense of empowerment that you talk about in the short period and that’s unfortunate, but I’m really glad that someone has taken this story, and reflected in a beautiful way. I know you’re gonna get 1 million comments talking about it, but can you please talk about only look at me next? That is another really hard, hitting one, and I’d love to see your thoughts on it.
To add some things about Japan for context in regards to child abuse - when it comes to matters like this, it used to be considered a "private issue". As in, it's between the family, and it shouldn't be in the public eye or discussed by outsiders due to the whole idea of filial piety (devotion to family which is not just a Japan issue but an Asia issue: I'm SEA, so yes, that sadly applies to us, too). That being said, it's a horrible way to deal with it, especially in a country that has a more socialist view since the abuser can simply pretend to show remorse or show a different face to the audience while behind closed doors it gets worse. Child abuse is also not only rampant between family but even at school - particularly with starring athletes and their coaches with punishments ranging from being beaten in front of the team, to getting your head shaved in front of the team. The age range of athletes getting abused is from 13-53 so yes, children can get badly punished. While child abuse is considered illegal in Japan with corporal punishment being banned, it still happens and has alarmingly increased especially during Covid. And this banning rule only started taking fruition because Human Rights Associations in Japan fought hard for years. I do think this all fits together and is shown in the film. Noticeably, even if the children were scarred horribly, there's no law enforcement involved at all. The mother takes care of her children by herself and the children have become more independent too where they stand up to Natsuki's abusive father, and also take initiative with helping to enforce the door at the end. Someone also mentioned in the comments about how to never judge first impressions, and it definitely does seem that way since the mother can be seen as "bad" by society (even more scrutinised as she's a single mother with a lot of children) while Natsuki's dad is the "good" party (father looking everywhere for his child, including a "dangerous" forest). However, we see behind closed doors with the children, the mother, while having emotional scars is still very loving and nurturing to her children and protecting them from a stranger, while the father is utterly horrific and depraved to his son. I honestly don't think the drowning scene is meant to be literal like a lot of the film, and can simply symbolise dropping contact in general, or even just submerging an experience to simply a "pool" of memories and being able to move on. The traps the mother was carrying can also mean that she's now "guarded" or will remain vigilant to outsiders, especially any men who come into her life now. This also again adds to the first impressions idea where we only see the mother with the children in private - we never see her interacting when she goes outside: she could be much colder, harsher, and unfriendly to people, and in the end, it's very understandable why she'd be like that. However, again, people don't really know the full story and will simply judge. Anyway, that's just my two cents. Enjoying your reviews as always, Saber!
To add to your post, the abuser can also sue their victims for defamation if they speak out. I don't know if it is true and hope it isn't true since that would just terrorize the victims even more.
The creator's take on the seven goats is very clever. We've forgotten that the original fairy tales, especially Grimm, were intended as cautionary tales exchanged between people warning about the horrors of the world. For example Little Red Riding was originally intended as warning for young ladies and children to not casually interact and trust strange men for they could be predators aka the wolf. The creator took the original story and added more to the subject. Mad respects to his craft and storytelling. Also Saber excellent and respectful presentation on your part. Thank you for the recommendations as well.
Tackling topics such as sexual assault is such a difficult thing to do, and the way it’s portrayed here is absolutely legendary. You hit every mark, it’s beautiful. The quality, the meaning, the symbolism, everything is just perfect. Of course there’s a happy ending, but you showed exactly how scarring these events can be even after the event itself is over. Well done.
Hazbin fan hell yea!!! Yes I'm gonna expand on this because all this baffonery of people with platforms defending "Doll*eg*ts" or "p*ppym*lk" "cut*es" or as far as "b*ku n* pic*" saying that it's just "art" and calling survivors, parents and such who backlashed it "too sensitive", just gotta stop. Not only that but those said people are always ones you'd think you'd look up to and then are turning around choosing to bash things like "clarissa" and "my little goat" that never get recognition probably because they don't explicitly show the depicted child characters "in the act". And it's such a huge issue that it's damaging to everyone it spreads to, with no control over it. I'm so glad Saberspark is not one of them! But fr tho people really do need to wake up and learn how these topics should actually be approached and have it gone over with those who've actually survived and processed and lived with this thing long enough because in no way are we ever taken seriously with "art" that's made by a single person who claims to have "survived it as well" and shown off and promoted by a big platform or corporate media who just want to look at kids the wrong way. I'm so effin sick and tired of seeing it time and time again but yea that's it, rant over. You could have never said it more beautifully and thank you for reminding me that there is still some hope in this world, that was really cathartic!
@Sabersраrk 🅥 It's good that asometimes you bring up films that are dark or scary. Would you like to review "Cathedral" by Tomasz Bagiński? It is inspired by Beksiński's paintings and Jacek Dukaj's book but you don't have to know these pieces of art to analize the animation
I agree that the ending is bittersweet. We are all happy the child and the goat kids are okay, but seeing the goats fearful of past events, and their fears forcing them to hide away and miss out on the good parts of life, it’s really sad. If they made a sequel on this, I hope we can see the goats feeling more safe and secure, and going outside more. :c
It covers subjects we find distressful, but need to address, the world has evil people in it. But this dark story ends on a positive heartwarming note. Plus the loving Mother Goat taking Natuski as her own, treating him as her own flesh and blood, the children overcoming their trauma and abuse, is as uplifting as it is adorable. I hope we see more from the creator.
One nice piece of symbolism I'm surprised wasn't mentioned was how the mother has horns. Yes adult goats tend to have them in real life but I feel that, in this one, they represent the fact that she is able to defend herself and her kids. She is still a vulnerable goat but she has a means (and willpower) to fight back regardless. This should be a lesson that, even if you are a victim or someone who could be made a victim, you can always fight back and have the ability/duty to protect others who could and have fallen victim.
As a victim of abuse by my stepfather back then for eight years, I watched the short before I watched this review and it broke me. What a way to tell a story in a respectful and empowering manner.
@@princeprimrose00 I completely understand and my heart goes out to you, I almost stopped watching it, until I pushed through, seeing as I had people who reacted that way once they realized what was happening. I do hope you are healing.
@@cyan789 I am okay, the scars stay for long and they will stay there but I am getting help and now thanks to my family and fiancée I'm getting better, it's a struggle and I get frustrated with myself sometimes blaming myself for the things that happened to me but, I just have to look in the horizon and keep going on to be better.
exact same situation here, hope you're doing okay, it was also repulsive to see the escene, really hits close when you've been through these kinds of awful situations
The mirror scene is so hard hitting for me I was never SA'ed, but I was abused. I 've had all sorts of trauma in my live that's scarred me in so many ways. The time that I found out that everything I had been through was traumatic, It all came crashing down. It was a horrifying feeling, but at the same time, it was comforting. My feelings on the matter were valid, and some things I did were explained. I got to figure out my feelings and find people I could relate to. It was bittersweet.
very true, as a general life rule, stepping outside your comfort zone isnt always bad, but it can be detrimental to your health both physical and mental if you expose yourself to things you really cannot handle. hell even seeing the blurred out clip saber used after hearing "intestine scene" and seeing a knife? yeah thats enough for me FJKFDJHGH
@@Jaypupp Then i recommend destroying everything that can connect to the internet. This isn't a safe place, no matter how much some people think it is or should be.
Thank you for reviewing this, I am a csa survivor and mother of a lost lamb. I couldn’t watch this, but your review has given me mad respect for it. I’m glad we have you as a sort of buffer between things some of us couldn’t watch ourselves, but want to appreciate still. Thank you so much. I really, really appreciate your efforts and perspective. You’ve gotten me through a lot of dark times over the last few years. You really do make a difference.
@@marcoasturias8520 Sure The Wolf and the Seven Young Goats is somewhat obscure in the West, but in Europe (mainly Belgium and The Netherlands), Russia, and Asia (especially Japan) that story is very popular.
My girlfriend is getting her degree in animation. I'm very excited for the next few years of her schooling when she'll get to fully invest her learning into this medium. There are a lot of college animated films on TH-cam that deserve so much praise and recognition. I hope when the time for my girlfriend's film comes her work will also get recognition.
That's amazing! I honestly respect anyone who can do animation because I know the process of making animations can be exhausting I'm happy for your gf :)
I really thought this was going to be one of those animations that's gonna be just gory™️ and dark™️ for pure glorious Edge™️, but then I became legitimately heartbroken for the goats and kid. I'm hurt and disgusted by the wolf, and the reality of how many wolves are lurking out there in the real world. My heart goes out to all the victims and anyone who was affected by these horrible acts.
Yea i've forgotten what made me have such a cautious fear of stopmotion films, especially on YT but it never fails to make my spine shiver before something gruesome even shows up. I can never trust stop motion to rarely ever be sum wholesome or cute unless it's overly cute looking in a very plain way ig? (Like that one show on Netflix, the woman and her animal roommates)
as a survivor of sexual abuse, this hit really hard and reminded me that i dont need to feel alone in my trauma and that i can help others who are going through what i went through. this short made me feel very comforted at the end
It’s such a touching story that portrays sexual abuse in family that feels shockingly real, and the message it carries about the effects it has on children being exposed to such abuse for so long was beautifully symbolic. (Why the children were deformed) I was once a victim to this abuse as a child. Watching this felt- surreal? At least for me it had. It’s different for everyone. This is a very moving and astounding animation. But also very dark and triggering- you all do not have to watch it if you don’t want to, but I’m also glad Saber brought attention to this animation. My heart goes out to all of you.
@@SaltRatz They just link to other YT videos because the creators don't want to play the long game of creating good videos that attracts a viewer base.
As a CSA survivor and a person who suffered from severe parental abuse I spent weeks linking this to people because it's exactly as disgusting and uncomfortable and awful feeling and for the people watching it's only a few minutes. For us survivors it's decades of our life and all about recovering from another person's abuse and cruelty.
I watched this short before this video because I saw a review for it. From an artistic standpoint, it's very well executed, and the stop motion is brilliant. All of that aside, it also traumatised me, as I watched late in the evening, on my bed. It was weirdly heart warming though, I don't know why, but the idea of all these scared goat children coming together to help this struggling young boy going through something similar to what they went to.
It hit hard. I'm a victim of sexual harassment since I was 15. Is felt more like an animation of hope that people are kind and will help you when they see that you're getting abused instead of crowding around round and falling in with the harassment. Or outright ignoring the problem is letting it happen. My little goat is a very powerful piece.
i know this will be lost in the sea of comments, but i just wanted to say: thank you, saber. as a survivor, myself, i really appreciate you talking about this film and story, and mentioning the impact it has on people like me. i appreciate you handling the subject with tact and empathy. thank you so much.
Stop motion animation deserves a lot of love. And I actually really like the animated short for basically creating a rather clever twist in which the wolf antagonist isn't a wolf (though the original wolf villain does appear at the very beginning where the mum dissected the corpse, but doesn't really have much of an actual role besides kickstarting the plot), but an ordinary human man who you'd expect to be a normal loving father finally reuniting with his human son before it's revealed that he's much more horrible than we initially see. Also, like maybe it's just me, but the goat mother is pretty much a more three-dimensional take of the "stern and protective mother" trope. It is quite common in certain anime and manga where like as befits the standards of Japanese society, the mother would always be strict, overbearing and straight-up clingy. It is usually played for comedy, but in a clever way can be used in a more serious manner (i.e. the mother turning out to be far worse or having a legitimate traumatic history that led to her current behaviour). The goat mother seemingly kidnapping an innocent human boy from his family and dressing him up as her dead child sounds disturbing (and it is). But when we realised just how abusive the father was to the boy, it's shows that the mother had EVERY reason to keep him away and protect him. One thing I also like is the fact that the human boy eventually found love from the goat family than the human father. Idk why, but the general "found family" trope in which a family that isn't biological is still very much as valid as biological families. To put the whole short, it is quite chilling and actually knows what it is doing. I might give it another watch if I have time. Honestly, some guy who does stop motion animation has a lot more passion in work than many massive film companies. 12:29 Also, I like that you watched the short too. I did and oh boy it did give me some chills.
I cried when I found out the twist. I was sexually abused by someone in my family as a child. This completely described the defeated way I felt. The animator did an amazing job at this
Oh. I hope you're OK. I was also very sad at the end because I know people who have also been assaulted. It's a dark topic that nobody deserves to go through
for real, japanese people are so good in making plots, wether in videogames, films or music, I'm always so flashed by what they create and I appreciate it so much
Well, Japan does have a very long history when it comes to literature, especially when the Tale of Genji could be the World’s first novel as well as the world’s first psychological novel.
I find it to be actually really wholesome. It's a story about this sexually abused human boy, who gets adopted by a goat family whose children also suffer from trauma(though a different kind of trauma) and together, these kids can help each other overcome their trauma and live a happy life, as their mother takes extra measures to keep them safe(like walking around with a taser or a bear trap in case any literal or sexual predators are around their home).
@-FL00FK1NS!-🌙 I've clicked on a few of these, and they've all veen random videos from small channels, usually cooking or some outdoors presentation. Some of them probably manage to skim personal info from your browser.
The short was both gut wrenching and visually impressive. It really nails this unnerving feeling and yet the goats, as disturbing as they look, are very expressive and you can see him their faces how much they care for each other and the little boy Natsuki. The lighting is beautiful and the visual design is just amazing. And for as disturbing at the top is and how how it can be to watch it, it has to be said ans has to be brought to life in order to continue the fight to protect kids from predators and people who turn a blind eye.
I remember when this short first came out--it had gripped the art community by the throat. I personally loved the visuals and the stopmotion. It's an interesting take on an old fairytale combined with pressing social issues. Not gonna lie, it was super uncomfortable watching what happened to the kid the first time (and still is every subsequent viewing). The plot twist was one of the most wretched heart-dropping-into-stomach moments you'll ever find in animation. But seeing all the kids band together and the predator getting what was coming to him was indescribable. I still can't get over how dark it is in the opening when she's searching for her baby that had already been digested, and you just see the blood and limbs in the corners of the screen.
I remember a majority of fanart (which are super sweet and melancholy) for the short was from Spanish viewers (since the short was previously uploaded with English and Spanish subtitles during the Spring of 2020).
@@nyanpirethecat2257 True! I actually found out about it from some of my Spanish-speaking art friends. This was before the English version was ever available online. I'd been in the early stages of making my own subtitled version with a transcript I found online only for a subtitled version to be uploaded like, a couple days after. I've been watching it every so often ever since then. It's one of those films that just kind of sticks with you.
when the father is alive, and the kid feels unsafe, the lighting feels very dim and creepy. when the father is dead, and the kid feels comfortable and welcomed, the lighting feels like a warm spring day.
THANK YOU FOR THE WARNING!!! As someone who has had to deal with these themes I genuinely appreciate it. I don’t know if I’m going to watch the rest of this video because of it, but I want to express how grateful I am that you included a warning
It’s a good short, but if I had known it had that topic I probably wouldn’t have had watched it. It’s only for a small bit, but it made me so so so upset. I still love the short tho
This short is and always will be one of my favorites. It makes you feel sick, it SHOULD make you uncomfortable. And I love that. I cry everytime I watch it as I for one can unfortunately relate. This short speaks volumes and I truly believe that it's timeless.
This animation is amazing! It truly is one of the greatest representations in media of abuse and trauma. If this was the first way you was explained to it would have improved my original mindset of it. It both teaches and sympathizes with its audience. All of this made by one person is astounding to me.
This and so many others should stand to show that animation has the potential to tell a story 1000x more effectively than ANY other media. There’s just so many layers that can be added when you can make your characters look however you want.
I had seen this before done by another reviewer. It really is so sad. But the message is so well done. This kind of story NEEDS to be told. To show you can recover. People care about you.
My interpretation is that the little human boy IS the little goat boy who “died” - it’ and the scaring are symbols of the mother being unable to intervene until after some form of abuse has already occurred - that they’ve all been “hurt” by their father in one way or another but only one was “consumed”
There's so much about this short that I have to say but I can't put them into words. I love it a lot. One thing I want to mention is the mother. She clearly saw the corpse of her son in the stomach of the wolf. She must have been in such grief she was in denial of the fact. But by the end, I believe she decided to see Natsuki as who he was and took him in as part of the family regardless. She is such an amazing mother.
I saw a theory that maybe the son was just in there so long he wasn't even remotely recognizable. Which if you think of the allegory and how he obviously didn't make it, makes the story just a bit more disturbing.
it's nice to see a japanese production using the topic of SA as it really is; something terrible and a traumatic experience for those who are victims. Japan is a really patriarch country and even tends to glorify sexualt assault of abuse, even included in more terrible things like incest and pedophilia, someone as a consumer can see it mostly in anime and manga. this short is dark but it's great, it treats dark topics with the horrible nature they represent without being disrespectful. it is just amazing, thank you Saber for covering this short! sorry for bad english lol
I remember watching this when it came out and I thought it was gonna be a cool horror short, but I started crying when the boy's father entered. It did such a good job at putting the message out.
Thank you so much for reviewing this, I saw it a few months ago and was blown away. As a CSA survivor myself, it was nice to see something that spoke about how victims see their abusers, and how terrifying it makes the rest of the world. There’s so much more to be said about this terrifying yet beautiful story that I unfortunately don’t have the words to describe. Much love to my fellow survivors.
I remember reading this particular Grimm fairy tale for the first time, and really liking it. I was hoping it would be adapted someday, but knew the chances were slim because it's a pretty dark story already. Cool to see someone leaned into that, and made something really great out of it
I'm still not able to face my demons yet, but I genuinely appreciate that the short concludes with it getting better. Yes, the scars remain, but we live with them. It wasn't about getting rid of them, but saying it was okay to have scars and that we can all have our own metaphorical coat to cover them. I watched the Steven review, which was my first time hearing of the short, and I couldn't even finish the review video. I want to proudly say I've healed some since then, but I still need time. This short really touched my heart on all levels. I really love stop motion and so to see a short like this it was really influential. Thanks Saberspark
I watched Pui Pui Molcar and loved it. If it wasn't for this video, I would've never known the creator for that and My Little Goat to be the same person. Just goes to show how talented Tomoki is at setting the tone for his series. He clearly knows what he's doing.
Assemble across this a couple months ago out of the blue and I'm really glad I found it because it's beautiful it's heartwarming it's heartbreaking but it's so life affirming. It's about how trauma can change us but not break us. Going from a victim to a survivor. It's beautiful. Simple as that, absolutely beautiful.
My theory was that the wolf or A wolf had sexually assaulted the goats as well, and that’s why the mother goat is so insistent on keeping them hidden after rescuing them. The older the goats are, the more scars they have, showing that they had been abused before their younger siblings and suffer the most trauma. All in all, every scar in the film would represent how much trauma the children had received. And of course the eldest goat who had died, had been abused so terribly that he had passed away. Just a theory but I hope I explained it decently lol.
This one just hit different fr. It will always be one of the most thought provoking and interesting short films I’ve seen, and I honestly love how the symbolism is so good while maintaining a level of respect.
Something else that really stuck with me is the oldest boy/goat died. In some cultures, the oldest son is the strongest and most reliable. Just goes to show that no matter what, some can’t survive their trauma.
This short actually comes off as relatable once you realize how one can interpret it. Ir almost feels like realizing that your trauma is not reversible, You cannot get rid of it and it never leaves you. The part when the mother pulls the children from the wolf feels like when its finally over but the damage was done. Nothing can change that. I love this story so much, It really does help me.
This short scared me at first. The melted wool and the gore was something I hated seeing. But then I saw the true meaning, and I couldn’t stop watching. Even though it scared me, it made me feel sad for the little boy and the goat children. I think the fact that it’s in stop motion really aids to that feeling. Great short, hope you do more reviews on shorts!
I watched about half of this video but couldn't take watching more. The mention of what happens with the human boy brought back some of my own memories. Kudos to the short's creator, though, for spending so many years making something so heavy and while I have to bow out, I appreciate you Saber for covering this.
i can’t really put into words exactly how i felt watching this short but i’m so thankful you posted about it. i’ve been a stop motion fan for ages and i’ve always admired how people use art to vent their traumas / touch on sensitive topics. this was an absolutely beautiful, horrifying short that i’m glad i saw. the baby goats and the little boy ending the short in their own colorful little capes, beginning to heal from their traumas together had me near tears, as did the most disfigured goat making sure the little boy was okay after his attack before holding onto him. the topic is one that’s so terrifying and hard to talk about and experience. the metaphor of the goats’ fur having been destroyed and melted away was tragic and hit home, that feeling of being a little more broken when you look in the mirror, not knowing what to do with yourself. im not a victim of csa, but as someone who dealt with a form of sa a few years back, it still touched a nerve in a way i didn’t expect. what an absolutely gorgeous, depressing, artful film, and what an interesting way to address such a horrifying subject. thank you for putting me onto this, saber. forgive the fact that i already commented before this, i needed to better express my thoughts with a longer comment. i don’t have the right words for this short.
I love how this animated short film shows what happens to an individual and the people around them when it come to trauma. I wont speak on everybody that went through the same thing but I'm a victim of r-pe and i cried so much seeing how they accurately portrayed how sexual abuse affects the kid and how heart broken their guardian can be, i know some people ended up getting scolded/punished after telling others what happened and i just feel very sorry about it, that's why I consider myself lucky that my mom tried her best not to react the way i didn't want her to
I binged watch majority of Tomoki’s content, and each video left me stunned. My Little Goat was truly one of the most disturbing one out of all of the one I already watched, but it truly was a masterpiece.
As a survivor, I always appreciate shorts like these. It makes me feel less alone seeing someone represent this trauma with so much care. Also if anyone wants to see any more animated shorts that are great like these, I really recommend OPAL by Jack Staubers :)
I probably will not watch this on it’s own (I get squeamish with gore in any 3d environment), but I will say that it’s an amazing message and actually well made from the small parts shown!
I, an author myself, strive to be able to convey messages like this. To shock, surprise, sadden, and reveal things to the reader. I enjoy dark, "scary" content because if done well, it can tell a meaningful and impactful story. Then again, most genre's can and do so, but with dark themes added in; it reveals a new level of depth, and can hit much harder than more happy, cheerful stories. Not every story has a happy ending, but they all have lessons. You just have to look deeper, look past the characters. I want people who read my works to feel multiple feelings at once. Happy the danger has passed or been defeated, Sad of the cost, Fearful yet excited of what might come next, and that they can connect to the story and or the characters, or at least have their eyes opened to real struggles, and then mental, physical, and social impact it has on a person, creature, or even a monster. There isnt always a big plan to hurt and to gain power, sometimes it's just a bad situation. There doesn't always have to be a villain, especially with mental disorders and fear. Negative emotions are powerful, most often more impactful than positive emotions. Fear, Anxiety, Depression, Losing sight of who you are, Hating the person who you see in the mirror, Can be lessened and bettered by positive interactions/experiences/feelings, yes, but in most cases, They hold the victim back. Anyone, even the bravest, once subjected to enough fear will run away. Anyone, even the happiest, once subjected to enough sadness will crumple and cry. Destruction will always, ALWAYS be there. But; Destruction clears things away; whether you liked it or not, and will always leave space for you to start again. Every forest that burns to the ground leaves its once blooming with life floor as a fertile spread, ready for the new seeds and trees to grow. It's hard to get back up and run, but everytime you do, it gets a little easier. It wont be flat out easy, but... Easier.
That short really hits home for me, I went through something really similar, only I didn't have anyone like the mom character when I was going through it. It's made fantastically and I think it does a great job at showing how much of an issue CSA is through the brutal truth of what it is
oh my god i’m so glad more people are finding out about this short film!! i found it over the summer and have been completely obsessed with this man’s work since! thanks so much for reviewing this absolute GEM saber
Clicked as soon as I saw the notif I love this short film sm 😩👌 Edit: seriously tho, this short is absolutely amazing and is super respectful in tackling such a heavy topic. It deeply resonated with me and just watching this video made me cry. 13/10
I decided to watch the short for myself before getting too far into this video and I'm very glad I did. It's a beautiful, engaging short with brilliantly executed storytelling and characters. The way I expected a certain twist only for it to be completely flipped on its head was impressive. I'm very interested in seeing more of Tomoki Misato's work and hope that he's able to pursue larger productions in the future (if only so he doesn't have to spend a decade making it all by himself).
I remember first watching this short early December of 2020 (which contained Spanish and English subtitles) which is no longer up. I still love this short because of how beautiful the lighting for some shots turned out and the voice acting (especially Mother Goat's voice). The short gained a lot of Spanish viewers to the point that a majority of fanart was from Spanish viewers. Also, "The Wolf And The Seven Young Goats" is very popular in Japan where it gained a lot of anime adaptations between the 70s and 80s on children's anime.
I watched this after seeing it covered at Steve Reviews. I find it very hopeful and positive despite the subject matter. It's not "about" abuse, it's about grieving and recovery.
I'm a survivor of years of CSA, and my little goat spoke to me in a way very few short films about the subject ever did. It does not ignore the despair of the situation, it gives the small children physical scars that survivors have on their mind. It's disturbing, but it's supposed to be. Honestly, I related to the oldest girl lamb so much throughout it, some of her actions, her words, her mistrust reminded me of how I was when I was younger. When I had been hurt and was so scared of having those I love around me be hurt in the same way, so scared of being hurt again. But at the same time, it shows some bittersweet hope. The little lambs and child don't "get better", but they adapt, they heal. The scars didn't leave, they probably will never leave, but they faded to an extent. They also have better ways to protect themselves now, and while of course they shouldn't even have to need these things, and of course it doesn't *erase* the chance of it happening again, but it helps, not just bc of the protection it brings, but also bc of the comfort that feeling more prepared, more protected can give to a survivor. I myself started lifting weights, getting more muscle, because it makes me feel a bit safer. Logically, it doesn't do all that much, but knowing that I can throw a few punches now makes me feel a bit better, it's a small comfort you know? I watch this short movie whenever I have a "bad trauma" day, honestly. Because seeing these little lambs go through something awfu like I did, suffer like I did, and still, at the end, be able to keep going, keep living, keep adapting, helps me alot. I just really hope the creator of the short is doing well, bc it really feels like it was made from some sort of personal experience.
I watched this when it first came out and it broke me. I wasn’t abused by a member of my family, but by a family friend’s older child. This short really put this in a great way.
I love this short so much, it’s breathtakingly beautiful and handled such a difficult topic amazingly well. Also like I’d just recently learned about Annihilation and first found the clip of the bear scene, which already deeply disturbed me, but I was not at all prepared for the intestines scene and felt very ill for the rest of the day. I can handle certain body horror, but that was definitely beyond what I was prepared for and left an impact.
The mother was definitely in a state of coping and grief.She thought Yoruku was a sheep and took care of Yoruku because of the trauama of not wanting to let go.This short was so powerful with such cute looking characters like smiling friends
Damn this movie sounds pretty hardcore, I got respect for the creator for taking the time to create such a story no matter how uncomfortable it makes people.
Honestly, I am glad that all of the kids finally found a community in each other. I think this is to show how many abuse survivors mostly have to find a community with each other as everyone else is more hostile or misunderstanding.
Dude I started crying just watching your review saber, I'm probably not going to be able to watch the short. I have never even been abused that way. But it still tickles a deeper sadness in me it seems
Saw the title and decided to watch it before I watched this. It was emotionally hard to watch once the symbolism revealed itself, but a story that needed to be done. Tomoki Misato did a fantastic job with it.
this.. really hits home for me. although he wasn't sexually abusive, my father was very manipulative, and emotionally abusing. my mom was the only thing that really protecting me from him. me and my brothers have gone through a lot of stuff cus of him, but thank god it didn't rob me of my innocence back then. i could still somewhat enjoy life for a few more years.
This meaningful animated short along with others that aren't afraid to tackle very heavy , mature, serious, sometimes fucked-up but realistic themes also subject matter is the reason why I love animation so much. My Little Goat is a fine example of why this medium can be seen as so much more then just "Kids STuff ", when it's basically can be for anyone as well as be used to tell a multitude of vast stories and important topics such as CSA or other Iffy themes within life that needs to be talked about instead of pretending things like this don't happen or try to hide it like it's not a real problem in our world. While I do like live-action series / movies...I swear nothing will beats the ever creative, unlimited imaginative tool that is animation as a medium, especially when it comes to shorts like these.
I'd like to point out that the original fairytale's main moral is "don't trust strangers", and Tomoki showed that while yes that's true, strangers can be dangerous, they also showed that sometimes danger takes the form of people we know and hold dear. Sometimes the worst cases of abuse and trauma come from the people we're supposed to trust and love, and I adore that message and truth
💯
If you can't get a natural family, store bought is fine too
That is totally true, it's an excellent addition to the original message. People don't like to hear it, but in most cases of child abuse, the perpetrator is someone close (up to 90% if you count educators, teachers, babysitters, etc... And at least 70% are from the family). It's a hard to swallow truth.
The "white van man with candy" is really the odd case.
Yes
Moral of the story: YOU ARE SAFE NOWHERE AND FROM NO ONE
The fact that he was able to make a brothers Grimm story darker than the brothers Grimm made it is honestly really impressive
now that is impressive
It's not that hard. Grimm fairy tales, even at their darkest, are still straightforward and whimsical.
There are no twists, no sinister turns. Things pretty much are what they are in virtually all the tales.
Taking them down a 'grimdark' path is simple.
@@Alondro77 The Juniper Tree’ is a disturbing account of a young boy who is murdered by his stepmother - clearly, stepmothers are often evil in these stories. Knowing that the son will inherit everything upon his father’s death, the stepmother decapitates the young boy when he reaches into a box for an apple. Not wanting anyone to know what happened, the stepmother devises a plan to make her daughter believe she did it, and then, the stepmother cooks the poor boy and feeds him to his father! The young girl then buries the bones underneath the juniper tree where the little boy’s mother is also buried.
Just another Tuesday for the Japanese.
feels like a vocaloid song
It still breaks my heart when the eldest daughter sees her reflection for the first time.
Stop spamming in replies.
It's such a powerful moment. But she always will have her family, and the future.
E
@Be Straight You’re a bot in disguise.
@Sabersраrk 🅥 Along with you.
seeing the comments filled with victims of child abuse is heartbreaking. it's so unfair and infuriating, I can't fathom how anyone could do something so vile to a little kid. I don't think I've ever cried this hard to an animated short. it's a tragic masterpiece of animation and I still can't bear to watch the scene of the father holding him down without shrinking into myself. it's nauseating and absolutely horrific.
My dad had to stop seeing me & my older sister. He allegedly harmed her, but since she can’t probably talk, she didn’t say what happened. I can’t see him either, because even though he do anything to me, In case the allegations are true, he can’t be near me.
( I usually don’t like talking about this on TH-cam, but I feel safe talking about it here )
-you should see the comment section on the creator's youtube itself...
THIS is why I love animation. I’m so sick of people who blatantly says “it’s just for kids.” Or are mad that any non-“live action” thing ISN’T for kids but has adult themes…
There’s just some things that CAN’T be portrayed by humans like it can be in art.
a lot of things in my opinion
Fax
que
So true
and yet "adult animation" is stereotyped as a bunch of overly crass and sexual Family Guy clones
The mirror scene hit hard.
Those that have childhood trauma like that know what that feeling was.
The realisation of your trauma, it is pushed back until something triggers is and it comes back and suddenly you are aware of the trauma that has been controling your life.
It feels exactly like that scene.
Yeah, it does. You see all your scars, and how abnormal you might be.
In a way, though, the feeling is comforting. At least it was for me, I can't speak for others of the same predicament.
I remember bawling in the shower for hours after I unrepressed being sexually abused, and it still effects me to this day. Child trauma doesn’t go away, no matter how much help you get. You just have to walk in a world and let it follow you, your only goal not to try and rid it, but rather to not let it get in front of you.
I'm so glad that, despite being extremely different species, the goats jump in to help the human child. Not a lot of victims get that type of help and have to live with that turama alone and sometimes they have to continue to live through it over and over. It just goes to show that, if you know someone is a victim, help them.
Thank you for that post
Someone said "the less fur you have, the less innocence you have." Meaning due to Natsuki father's sexual abuse, he lost all his innocence. So i think thats why he looks the most human.
True, although it's not always that simple unfortunately. Way too many abusers are good at hiding the abuse, and the victim is almost always too afraid of the abuser to tell anyone. And the abuser might respond by making the abuse worse. In those cases, your only choice is to just simply give the victim as much support as you can and hope that they can get out of the situation soon.
@@PlayerZeroStart
Sadly true, and it should also be addressed that most abuse victims fear societal judgement, as that also makes it hard to come forward. People that are abuse victims are humans with shades of gray to them and their own virtues/flaws, just as every human is. And sadly, society judges harshly if victims aren't publically portrayed in specific ways to garner sympathy/biases, otherwise they face just as much (if not worse) abuse from society as they did from their abusers. Considering how badly most humans treat each other in general, it's little wonder how hard it is for abuse victims to come forward.
Hehe undertale
That short did NOT go the way I expected.
Also, that twist humanises (goatises?) the mother, explaining why she'd seemingly randomly kidnapped a human child, dressed him like a little goat, renamed him after her dead son and decided to make him her son.
At first, it portrays her in a bad light, but the twist clarifies and explains so much without even needing to.
She must have been out in the woods, noticed the boy and his father and she'd recognised the signs of a predator, so she took the boy to save him, dressed him like a goat to hide his appearance and called him by her dead son's name so, if the father was nearby, wouldn't notice so she could get the boy to her home where he'd be safe from the predator.
Holy heck, that's good story telling
I think you are reading too much into it. He wore that cloth from the start, so it can be more easily assumed that the traumatized mother mistook him for her child. I mean, she talked to him as if he was after all.
That is also the reason why this work, while great, is flawed. We have after all the mother kidnapping a boy. But I guess it was alright because of the mere coincidence that the father was abusive? That is a harmful message. Her kidnapping was bad, even if it turned out good in the end.
And even assuming, she thinks the boy is abused, kidnapping him because she thinks he "might" be abused is no justification. After all, the boy could simply have been a jerk and the dad was fuming at him because of it. There is so much that can go wrong. It all hinges on the boy actually being abused, heavily. What she did was immoral and illegal, albeit understandable as she seemed to be mentally unstable.
True
I thought she kidnapped him because she believed it was the child she lost, grieving still
I didn’t even think of it like that! At first I thought she genuinely just mistook him for her son but when you put it that way it makes more sense! She’s wanting to protect him!
I assumed the first goat was hunted and skinned by humans and the kid was wearing his wool and that's why the mother and the other goats mistook him for their own
I also like how the mother grew to be courageous. In the being after the incident, she is fearful, cautious, and filled with anxiety. All women can relate to her after any aggressive incident. Then she leaves her kids confident that they will be okay and walks out with equipment to protect herself.
I don't blame her, she just lost a child (Toruku was the eldest of her children) and appears to been in denial over his death. Losing a child is the worst feeling for a parent (especially a mother).
@Psycho Raccoon Many men can relate to the nanny goat as well. She is courageous.
@Psycho Raccoon thank you!
She did kidnap a kid though. Not sure if I can approve 100% with that.
I thought you said gorgeous
The goat children welcoming the boy into the family is definitely my favorite part about the whole film.
I think the mother leaving by herself with a bear trap is very clever. It reminds me of bear spray/mace which many women will use to protect themselves when alone.
The bear trap could also represent a self defense weapon like a handgun.
As someone who has been sexually assaulted as a child, the way that this animation is concluded was perfect, even though it breaks my heart just how much I sympathize with the kids. This is the first time I've heard of this animation and I'm definitely not gonna watch from how much trauma I still hold, but this animator is very talented and I'm glad that he put such a healing light at the end of "My Little Goat" it brings me hope that I can still go out in the world and regain trust and hope for myself while still being able to protect myself.
Damn thats damn messed up
I’m sorry you had to experience that
@@ThEcOoL_pErSoN Thank you, it was my father, but I'm learning to set boundaries and protect myself
@@maetrashfire1213 your father is just horrid and needs to be in jail for that if he hasn't!
I truly hope the rest of your life is filled with joy & hope. Stay safe.
for me the strongest moment was when, after defeating the abusive father, the mother hugged toruku/natsuki and then the other children came to share the hug, the more disfigured sister put her little hand on the human skin and took off the cover he gave her, as if she felt they're the same, even though she lost her wool. It made me tear up immediately
His name is Natsuki the reason why he was called Toruku was because the mother was still grieving over losing the eldest (you can see his corpse inside the wolf that's halfway digested in the beginning) so she started projecting until the end she was able to move on and adopt Natsu into the family.
@@kyaos_Meteor I know. That's why I wrote Toruku/Natsuki, because in the short they call the human both. witch one ends up being the final name for him does not really matter.
@@Pandastuck for some it does matter because Natsuki is his birth name while Toruku is the name of somebody's dead child so in the finale of him being called by his birth name is a sign that he's finally accepted and isn't being used like some sort of replacement to fill in gaps so in the end he's called Natsuki only. (There's even a scene where Natsu tries to explain that he isn't Toruku)
One very dark thing I noticed was that I believe the taser was not the mother's. It was the dad's who dropped it when he approached the boy. Giving off the horrible implication that he probably used it on him to make him behave and that's where the marks in his arms came from.
Oh my god
I didn't notice that before
I thought it was the phone he dropped, but this is so much more horrifying
I think it was the moms (it was her white bag and she said she’d grab strawberries for her kid because it was his “favourite”).
OH MY GOD
I think it was the mom’s, she dropped her bag in shock when she walked in and saw what was happening (hence the scattered strawberries)
The marks on Natsuki’s arm looked more like fingerprint bruises than taser marks
what also hit me personally, is that at the end, we see that the house is still destroyed. we can safely assume the ending scene takes place at least a few weeks or even months after the father/wolf incident, so you'd think they had enough time to clean the house. for me it shows how the victims, despite appearing okay, still have their house/private life ruined and destroyed. because appearing fine, wearing a mask or hiding your scars, doesn't fix the trauma inside you
At the same time, you can see that the goats were starting to regrow their wool as well, along with all of them having their bright colorful hoods to cover them. I can appreciate how it showed both aspects at the same time. You can tell a lot of effort and heart went into this!
At least they fixed the door.
While the message is endearing, I still wonder if the human boy ever saw his mother again. He was a basically kidnapped and forced to live amongst the goat family.
@@theopulentone1650 yeah, true. though for me it could be a metaphor of trauma survivors finding comfort in living/surrounding themselves with other trauma survivors, since they understand each other's pain the best. but i wonder, where is the boy's mother...
@@satinizer8021 All things considered, I think if we ever got an answer, it'd be that she isn't alive...
I watched this and was SO happy when i saw that you were reviewing it. I was abused sexually as a child and teenager but dont worry im an adult and fine now. This made me cry, churned my stomach and kind of triggered some trauma responses in me when i watched it .But I loved it because it was so effective in what it was showing, there are lots of layers to the symbolism and it made me feel oddly better after watching it. One of the things I at least interpreted was the level of digestion each of the children experienced, a lamb's coat is a symbol of purity and innocence ,the eldest lamb had most of her wool gone and each of her siblings had more wool the less time they were in the wolf's stomach. I think this might be a way of showing how a child's purity and innocence is taken away from them when theyre sexually abused...and when she saw herself in the mirror and had to come to terms with what she "looked like" and what happened. Really hit home for me.
I hope you will finally be healed from the pain of your past
@TwizzShorts thanks for being respectful, I'm in a much better situation now.
I wasn't ever SA'd (Btw, I'm very happy you're away from that now), but the mirror scene hit close to home for me too.
I like how the sheep come together to form a fuzzy mech to fight the wolf. Simultaneously funny but also beautiful to see them stand up to protect the boy.
Their goats
GOAT GOAT POWER RANGERS!
@@dracodracarys2339 Get out
Godzilla VS Kong (2021)
@@dracodracarys2339 damn :/
As a CSA survivor this short deeply resonated with me, it was so hard to watch because of the brutal way it was portrayed. And about how horrifyingly relatable it was, I became a shivering mess with the wolf/human scene, because yes, that's exactly how that felt. But even so, not matter how hard this short was to watch, it perfectly portrayed a very real and very dark situation, and I hope this helps bring some awareness that sometimes the "wolfs" can be people one thinks they can trust.
Also I love that animation is taking a firmer stance on not being "only for kids".
I really appreciate that, as dark in tone as the film is, it still has a happy ending. Bad things happen, but it can get better. We need more of that, and less "everyone died, everything sucks forever" endings in media.
I feel the opposite. I love love LOVE happy endings, but whether the ending is happy, sad or bitter sweet shouldn't be a merit of quality. There are a few pieces of media that's some of my favorite out there that have bitter sweet or sad endings but I still consider masterpieces in their own right.
Eh,i more like the "everything is suck,but there still hope"
Or the happy ending,but not the perfect one kind of ending (aka many disney movie)
Domestic abuse survivor here. I find most mainstream shows and media abhorrent. I love dark things and art that forces you to confront the dark side of humanity- and yourself. Thank you for sharing this.
Right?
I love reading dark stories and the "dead dove do not eat" but only in the view of the victims or views of recovery
But so often this tag/kind of content is either miss used/used to glorafiy such activities or labeled as horrible to read because people can't understand reading form a point of recovering/relating
It's not common to see animations that talk about sexual abuse towards children as young as Natsuki, sometimes even younger. It's sad seeing how this actually happens to people all over the world, all ages, all races, and all genders. Thank you for making this animation, it allows people to start noticing these things even though they've been happening for decades, unnoticed. It also allows people who have had these kinds of experiences to be heard.
Imposter
@@Hu_c2680 Sussy
Honestly, I appreciate the fact that you added “and all genders”. Not many people realize that.
@@viviaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaan also "all over the world", makes ya wonder if not culture, what causes people to be so shitty? Something I hadn't really considered
If the short wasn’t so… graphic, I’d show my three sisters and mom this short. We’re victims ourselves, and I think this would really speak to them.
im so sorry
I'm so sorry that you, your mother and your three sisters had to go through such a huge trauma, I hope you're ok and your psychological is stable at least, I wish you peace in your life and that you don't have to go through that again . must have been traumatizing, take care okay!
This is so beautiful but at the same time, absolutely horrifying. The father taking off Natsuki's clothing and acting like that to him was just revolting, and you portrayed all the symbolism so well. Amazingly done.
@Sabersраrk 🅥 imposter!!!!!
Quick question, what’s the source of your profile picture? Looks cool!
Bruh you literally just copied my comment from the original video wtf
@griffy it talks?
wtf- why are there so many bots-
As a victim of sexual assault, this hit me really hard. I cried a lot after watching this. And yet, I still felt that sense of empowerment that you talk about in the short period and that’s unfortunate, but I’m really glad that someone has taken this story, and reflected in a beautiful way.
I know you’re gonna get 1 million comments talking about it, but can you please talk about only look at me next? That is another really hard, hitting one, and I’d love to see your thoughts on it.
To add some things about Japan for context in regards to child abuse - when it comes to matters like this, it used to be considered a "private issue". As in, it's between the family, and it shouldn't be in the public eye or discussed by outsiders due to the whole idea of filial piety (devotion to family which is not just a Japan issue but an Asia issue: I'm SEA, so yes, that sadly applies to us, too). That being said, it's a horrible way to deal with it, especially in a country that has a more socialist view since the abuser can simply pretend to show remorse or show a different face to the audience while behind closed doors it gets worse. Child abuse is also not only rampant between family but even at school - particularly with starring athletes and their coaches with punishments ranging from being beaten in front of the team, to getting your head shaved in front of the team. The age range of athletes getting abused is from 13-53 so yes, children can get badly punished. While child abuse is considered illegal in Japan with corporal punishment being banned, it still happens and has alarmingly increased especially during Covid. And this banning rule only started taking fruition because Human Rights Associations in Japan fought hard for years.
I do think this all fits together and is shown in the film. Noticeably, even if the children were scarred horribly, there's no law enforcement involved at all. The mother takes care of her children by herself and the children have become more independent too where they stand up to Natsuki's abusive father, and also take initiative with helping to enforce the door at the end. Someone also mentioned in the comments about how to never judge first impressions, and it definitely does seem that way since the mother can be seen as "bad" by society (even more scrutinised as she's a single mother with a lot of children) while Natsuki's dad is the "good" party (father looking everywhere for his child, including a "dangerous" forest). However, we see behind closed doors with the children, the mother, while having emotional scars is still very loving and nurturing to her children and protecting them from a stranger, while the father is utterly horrific and depraved to his son. I honestly don't think the drowning scene is meant to be literal like a lot of the film, and can simply symbolise dropping contact in general, or even just submerging an experience to simply a "pool" of memories and being able to move on. The traps the mother was carrying can also mean that she's now "guarded" or will remain vigilant to outsiders, especially any men who come into her life now. This also again adds to the first impressions idea where we only see the mother with the children in private - we never see her interacting when she goes outside: she could be much colder, harsher, and unfriendly to people, and in the end, it's very understandable why she'd be like that. However, again, people don't really know the full story and will simply judge.
Anyway, that's just my two cents. Enjoying your reviews as always, Saber!
There's 4 bots in this comment
I know this is out of context a bit but the young boy’s name being Natsuki is weirdly fitting
@@Brady_Sharky for...?
This is such a detailed comment about an issue that i never learned about til now and never noticed how this was
To add to your post, the abuser can also sue their victims for defamation if they speak out. I don't know if it is true and hope it isn't true since that would just terrorize the victims even more.
The creator's take on the seven goats is very clever. We've forgotten that the original fairy tales, especially Grimm, were intended as cautionary tales exchanged between people warning about the horrors of the world. For example Little Red Riding was originally intended as warning for young ladies and children to not casually interact and trust strange men for they could be predators aka the wolf. The creator took the original story and added more to the subject. Mad respects to his craft and storytelling.
Also Saber excellent and respectful presentation on your part. Thank you for the recommendations as well.
Tackling topics such as sexual assault is such a difficult thing to do, and the way it’s portrayed here is absolutely legendary. You hit every mark, it’s beautiful. The quality, the meaning, the symbolism, everything is just perfect. Of course there’s a happy ending, but you showed exactly how scarring these events can be even after the event itself is over. Well done.
They didn’t make it
Hazbin fan hell yea!!!
Yes I'm gonna expand on this because all this baffonery of people with platforms defending "Doll*eg*ts" or "p*ppym*lk" "cut*es" or as far as "b*ku n* pic*" saying that it's just "art" and calling survivors, parents and such who backlashed it "too sensitive", just gotta stop.
Not only that but those said people are always ones you'd think you'd look up to and then are turning around choosing to bash things like "clarissa" and "my little goat" that never get recognition probably because they don't explicitly show the depicted child characters "in the act". And it's such a huge issue that it's damaging to everyone it spreads to, with no control over it. I'm so glad Saberspark is not one of them!
But fr tho people really do need to wake up and learn how these topics should actually be approached and have it gone over with those who've actually survived and processed and lived with this thing long enough because in no way are we ever taken seriously with "art" that's made by a single person who claims to have "survived it as well" and shown off and promoted by a big platform or corporate media who just want to look at kids the wrong way. I'm so effin sick and tired of seeing it time and time again but yea that's it, rant over.
You could have never said it more beautifully and thank you for reminding me that there is still some hope in this world, that was really cathartic!
@Sabersраrk 🅥 It's good that asometimes you bring up films that are dark or scary. Would you like to review "Cathedral" by Tomasz Bagiński? It is inspired by Beksiński's paintings and Jacek Dukaj's book but you don't have to know these pieces of art to analize the animation
@@orange_tangie216 I was gonna say that myself. How can someone watch the review and still think the reviewer made it?
@@finezyjnafantazja2495 The V in a circle is not the same as a checkmark. Fake bot channel.
I agree that the ending is bittersweet. We are all happy the child and the goat kids are okay, but seeing the goats fearful of past events, and their fears forcing them to hide away and miss out on the good parts of life, it’s really sad. If they made a sequel on this, I hope we can see the goats feeling more safe and secure, and going outside more. :c
It covers subjects we find distressful, but need to address, the world has evil people in it. But this dark story ends on a positive heartwarming note. Plus the loving Mother Goat taking Natuski as her own, treating him as her own flesh and blood, the children overcoming their trauma and abuse, is as uplifting as it is adorable. I hope we see more from the creator.
"We got him, still don't go out alone though" It's depressing but at least they find some love in their own circle. Until the manboy gets hungry ;)
@@chrisakaschulbus4903 Bonus content from the creator shows Mother made him go vegetarian. :)
@@abloogywoogywoo "Bonus content from the creator shows Mother made him go vegetarian. :)" That's cringe.
"It's just a phase, he'll grow up"
@@chrisakaschulbus4903 Development stuff.
@@abloogywoogywoo Hold on, I wonder
Is the "him" referring to the child, or the animation's creator?
One nice piece of symbolism I'm surprised wasn't mentioned was how the mother has horns. Yes adult goats tend to have them in real life but I feel that, in this one, they represent the fact that she is able to defend herself and her kids. She is still a vulnerable goat but she has a means (and willpower) to fight back regardless. This should be a lesson that, even if you are a victim or someone who could be made a victim, you can always fight back and have the ability/duty to protect others who could and have fallen victim.
As a victim of abuse by my stepfather back then for eight years, I watched the short before I watched this review and it broke me. What a way to tell a story in a respectful and empowering manner.
Sorry to hear that, hope you're ok now
As someone who's also a victim, I had to stop watching it because it just brought back horrible memories.
@@princeprimrose00 I completely understand and my heart goes out to you, I almost stopped watching it, until I pushed through, seeing as I had people who reacted that way once they realized what was happening. I do hope you are healing.
@@cyan789 I am okay, the scars stay for long and they will stay there but I am getting help and now thanks to my family and fiancée I'm getting better, it's a struggle and I get frustrated with myself sometimes blaming myself for the things that happened to me but, I just have to look in the horizon and keep going on to be better.
exact same situation here, hope you're doing okay, it was also repulsive to see the escene, really hits close when you've been through these kinds of awful situations
The mirror scene is so hard hitting for me
I was never SA'ed, but I was abused. I 've had all sorts of trauma in my live that's scarred me in so many ways.
The time that I found out that everything I had been through was traumatic, It all came crashing down.
It was a horrifying feeling, but at the same time, it was comforting.
My feelings on the matter were valid, and some things I did were explained. I got to figure out my feelings and find people I could relate to.
It was bittersweet.
You’re not alone ❤️😔✊
As someone with PTSD, therapy or even just talking helps a lot, and you are doing wonderful. Thank you so much for sharing. You are loved ❤
that conversation about warnings and avoiding content you can't stomach is really important, I'm glad you get it
very true, as a general life rule, stepping outside your comfort zone isnt always bad, but it can be detrimental to your health both physical and mental if you expose yourself to things you really cannot handle. hell even seeing the blurred out clip saber used after hearing "intestine scene" and seeing a knife? yeah thats enough for me FJKFDJHGH
@@Jaypupp Then i recommend destroying everything that can connect to the internet.
This isn't a safe place, no matter how much some people think it is or should be.
@@chrisakaschulbus4903 There is no absolutely safe place, but placing warnings helps us know what we need to handle if we want to proceed.
Thank you for reviewing this, I am a csa survivor and mother of a lost lamb. I couldn’t watch this, but your review has given me mad respect for it. I’m glad we have you as a sort of buffer between things some of us couldn’t watch ourselves, but want to appreciate still. Thank you so much. I really, really appreciate your efforts and perspective. You’ve gotten me through a lot of dark times over the last few years. You really do make a difference.
The Wolf and Seven Kids was my favorite fairy tale as a child, so seeing an adult interpretation of it is really interesting.
This one is somewhat obscure. I think I remember watching an old looney toon like animation one like a decade ago.
@@marcoasturias8520 Sure The Wolf and the Seven Young Goats is somewhat obscure in the West, but in Europe (mainly Belgium and The Netherlands), Russia, and Asia (especially Japan) that story is very popular.
My girlfriend is getting her degree in animation. I'm very excited for the next few years of her schooling when she'll get to fully invest her learning into this medium. There are a lot of college animated films on TH-cam that deserve so much praise and recognition. I hope when the time for my girlfriend's film comes her work will also get recognition.
That's amazing! I honestly respect anyone who can do animation because I know the process of making animations can be exhausting
I'm happy for your gf :)
I really thought this was going to be one of those animations that's gonna be just gory™️ and dark™️ for pure glorious Edge™️, but then I became legitimately heartbroken for the goats and kid. I'm hurt and disgusted by the wolf, and the reality of how many wolves are lurking out there in the real world. My heart goes out to all the victims and anyone who was affected by these horrible acts.
^bot™️
@@THEncrtrooper I agree ™️
Yea i've forgotten what made me have such a cautious fear of stopmotion films, especially on YT but it never fails to make my spine shiver before something gruesome even shows up. I can never trust stop motion to rarely ever be sum wholesome or cute unless it's overly cute looking in a very plain way ig? (Like that one show on Netflix, the woman and her animal roommates)
@@sundalosketch4769 ™️
@@josephisherelol5302 Ty, forgot it™
as a survivor of sexual abuse, this hit really hard and reminded me that i dont need to feel alone in my trauma and that i can help others who are going through what i went through. this short made me feel very comforted at the end
It’s such a touching story that portrays sexual abuse in family that feels shockingly real, and the message it carries about the effects it has on children being exposed to such abuse for so long was beautifully symbolic. (Why the children were deformed) I was once a victim to this abuse as a child. Watching this felt- surreal? At least for me it had. It’s different for everyone.
This is a very moving and astounding animation. But also very dark and triggering- you all do not have to watch it if you don’t want to, but I’m also glad Saber brought attention to this animation. My heart goes out to all of you.
@im sacred Thank you
@@SaltRatz um..that's a bot
@@shaylynn926 💀 I had no idea bruhhh
@@shaylynn926 I didn’t click it though
@@SaltRatz They just link to other YT videos because the creators don't want to play the long game of creating good videos that attracts a viewer base.
As a CSA survivor and a person who suffered from severe parental abuse I spent weeks linking this to people because it's exactly as disgusting and uncomfortable and awful feeling and for the people watching it's only a few minutes. For us survivors it's decades of our life and all about recovering from another person's abuse and cruelty.
I watched this short before this video because I saw a review for it. From an artistic standpoint, it's very well executed, and the stop motion is brilliant. All of that aside, it also traumatised me, as I watched late in the evening, on my bed. It was weirdly heart warming though, I don't know why, but the idea of all these scared goat children coming together to help this struggling young boy going through something similar to what they went to.
The bots are talking over...
@@Silverboa yeah
@Be Straight there getting smarter
Gonna make a guess it was Steve Reviews. He did a video a few months ago on the short which was how I've heard a lot of people heard of it
@@pokefanalex9504 Actually I think you're right, I remember checking out his channel a few months ago.
It hit hard. I'm a victim of sexual harassment since I was 15. Is felt more like an animation of hope that people are kind and will help you when they see that you're getting abused instead of crowding around round and falling in with the harassment. Or outright ignoring the problem is letting it happen. My little goat is a very powerful piece.
i know this will be lost in the sea of comments, but i just wanted to say: thank you, saber. as a survivor, myself, i really appreciate you talking about this film and story, and mentioning the impact it has on people like me. i appreciate you handling the subject with tact and empathy. thank you so much.
Stop motion animation deserves a lot of love. And I actually really like the animated short for basically creating a rather clever twist in which the wolf antagonist isn't a wolf (though the original wolf villain does appear at the very beginning where the mum dissected the corpse, but doesn't really have much of an actual role besides kickstarting the plot), but an ordinary human man who you'd expect to be a normal loving father finally reuniting with his human son before it's revealed that he's much more horrible than we initially see.
Also, like maybe it's just me, but the goat mother is pretty much a more three-dimensional take of the "stern and protective mother" trope. It is quite common in certain anime and manga where like as befits the standards of Japanese society, the mother would always be strict, overbearing and straight-up clingy. It is usually played for comedy, but in a clever way can be used in a more serious manner (i.e. the mother turning out to be far worse or having a legitimate traumatic history that led to her current behaviour). The goat mother seemingly kidnapping an innocent human boy from his family and dressing him up as her dead child sounds disturbing (and it is). But when we realised just how abusive the father was to the boy, it's shows that the mother had EVERY reason to keep him away and protect him.
One thing I also like is the fact that the human boy eventually found love from the goat family than the human father. Idk why, but the general "found family" trope in which a family that isn't biological is still very much as valid as biological families.
To put the whole short, it is quite chilling and actually knows what it is doing. I might give it another watch if I have time. Honestly, some guy who does stop motion animation has a lot more passion in work than many massive film companies.
12:29 Also, I like that you watched the short too. I did and oh boy it did give me some chills.
I cried when I found out the twist. I was sexually abused by someone in my family as a child. This completely described the defeated way I felt. The animator did an amazing job at this
Oh. I hope you're OK. I was also very sad at the end because I know people who have also been assaulted. It's a dark topic that nobody deserves to go through
Lol
Wow
@@Tommyknocker. and
@@peachy_lili then
for real, japanese people are so good in making plots, wether in videogames, films or music, I'm always so flashed by what they create and I appreciate it so much
Well, Japan does have a very long history when it comes to literature, especially when the Tale of Genji could be the World’s first novel as well as the world’s first psychological novel.
This disturbed me a bit at first but then I became intrigued in this, it’s actually a good short story
You 3 are 🤓.
Please don't click on the FUCKING LINKS FOR GODS SAKE PLEASE
I find it to be actually really wholesome. It's a story about this sexually abused human boy, who gets adopted by a goat family whose children also suffer from trauma(though a different kind of trauma) and together, these kids can help each other overcome their trauma and live a happy life, as their mother takes extra measures to keep them safe(like walking around with a taser or a bear trap in case any literal or sexual predators are around their home).
@-FL00FK1NS!-🌙 That's the point
@-FL00FK1NS!-🌙 I've clicked on a few of these, and they've all veen random videos from small channels, usually cooking or some outdoors presentation. Some of them probably manage to skim personal info from your browser.
The short was both gut wrenching and visually impressive. It really nails this unnerving feeling and yet the goats, as disturbing as they look, are very expressive and you can see him their faces how much they care for each other and the little boy Natsuki. The lighting is beautiful and the visual design is just amazing. And for as disturbing at the top is and how how it can be to watch it, it has to be said ans has to be brought to life in order to continue the fight to protect kids from predators and people who turn a blind eye.
I remember when this short first came out--it had gripped the art community by the throat. I personally loved the visuals and the stopmotion. It's an interesting take on an old fairytale combined with pressing social issues. Not gonna lie, it was super uncomfortable watching what happened to the kid the first time (and still is every subsequent viewing). The plot twist was one of the most wretched heart-dropping-into-stomach moments you'll ever find in animation. But seeing all the kids band together and the predator getting what was coming to him was indescribable. I still can't get over how dark it is in the opening when she's searching for her baby that had already been digested, and you just see the blood and limbs in the corners of the screen.
I remember a majority of fanart (which are super sweet and melancholy) for the short was from Spanish viewers (since the short was previously uploaded with English and Spanish subtitles during the Spring of 2020).
@@nyanpirethecat2257 True! I actually found out about it from some of my Spanish-speaking art friends. This was before the English version was ever available online. I'd been in the early stages of making my own subtitled version with a transcript I found online only for a subtitled version to be uploaded like, a couple days after. I've been watching it every so often ever since then. It's one of those films that just kind of sticks with you.
when the father is alive, and the kid feels unsafe, the lighting feels very dim and creepy. when the father is dead, and the kid feels comfortable and welcomed, the lighting feels like a warm spring day.
THANK YOU FOR THE WARNING!!! As someone who has had to deal with these themes I genuinely appreciate it. I don’t know if I’m going to watch the rest of this video because of it, but I want to express how grateful I am that you included a warning
It’s a good short, but if I had known it had that topic I probably wouldn’t have had watched it. It’s only for a small bit, but it made me so so so upset. I still love the short tho
This short is and always will be one of my favorites. It makes you feel sick, it SHOULD make you uncomfortable. And I love that. I cry everytime I watch it as I for one can unfortunately relate. This short speaks volumes and I truly believe that it's timeless.
This animation is amazing! It truly is one of the greatest representations in media of abuse and trauma. If this was the first way you was explained to it would have improved my original mindset of it. It both teaches and sympathizes with its audience. All of this made by one person is astounding to me.
@Be Straight sureeeee
This and so many others should stand to show that animation has the potential to tell a story 1000x more effectively than ANY other media.
There’s just so many layers that can be added when you can make your characters look however you want.
I had seen this before done by another reviewer. It really is so sad. But the message is so well done. This kind of story NEEDS to be told. To show you can recover. People care about you.
My interpretation is that the little human boy IS the little goat boy who “died” - it’ and the scaring are symbols of the mother being unable to intervene until after some form of abuse has already occurred - that they’ve all been “hurt” by their father in one way or another but only one was “consumed”
There's so much about this short that I have to say but I can't put them into words. I love it a lot. One thing I want to mention is the mother. She clearly saw the corpse of her son in the stomach of the wolf. She must have been in such grief she was in denial of the fact. But by the end, I believe she decided to see Natsuki as who he was and took him in as part of the family regardless. She is such an amazing mother.
I saw a theory that maybe the son was just in there so long he wasn't even remotely recognizable. Which if you think of the allegory and how he obviously didn't make it, makes the story just a bit more disturbing.
@@penguinstarlette4028 Oh christ I am about to burst to tears
@@fuzzybuzzy3159 *gives you some tissues*
As a person who got sexually assaulted by my father
This hits so close to home and I’m so glad it showed that kind of abuse respectfully
Im very sorry for what happened hope ur better ily 🤟
@@Ramenn_thank you
Oh my god! That's messed up, I really hope you to have a beautiful future that you deserves!❤🫂 And over come the past.
it's nice to see a japanese production using the topic of SA as it really is; something terrible and a traumatic experience for those who are victims. Japan is a really patriarch country and even tends to glorify sexualt assault of abuse, even included in more terrible things like incest and pedophilia, someone as a consumer can see it mostly in anime and manga. this short is dark but it's great, it treats dark topics with the horrible nature they represent without being disrespectful. it is just amazing, thank you Saber for covering this short!
sorry for bad english lol
Your English was brilliant, no worries! I didn't notice anything wrong with it!
Wouldn't have known if you hadn't apologised XP
Your english is good 👍 I agree with you.
I remember watching this when it came out and I thought it was gonna be a cool horror short, but I started crying when the boy's father entered.
It did such a good job at putting the message out.
Thank you so much for reviewing this, I saw it a few months ago and was blown away. As a CSA survivor myself, it was nice to see something that spoke about how victims see their abusers, and how terrifying it makes the rest of the world. There’s so much more to be said about this terrifying yet beautiful story that I unfortunately don’t have the words to describe. Much love to my fellow survivors.
I remember reading this particular Grimm fairy tale for the first time, and really liking it. I was hoping it would be adapted someday, but knew the chances were slim because it's a pretty dark story already. Cool to see someone leaned into that, and made something really great out of it
I've actually seen this short before, so hearing saber talk about the father sent a shiver down my spine.
I'm still not able to face my demons yet, but I genuinely appreciate that the short concludes with it getting better. Yes, the scars remain, but we live with them. It wasn't about getting rid of them, but saying it was okay to have scars and that we can all have our own metaphorical coat to cover them. I watched the Steven review, which was my first time hearing of the short, and I couldn't even finish the review video. I want to proudly say I've healed some since then, but I still need time. This short really touched my heart on all levels. I really love stop motion and so to see a short like this it was really influential. Thanks Saberspark
I watched Pui Pui Molcar and loved it. If it wasn't for this video, I would've never known the creator for that and My Little Goat to be the same person. Just goes to show how talented Tomoki is at setting the tone for his series. He clearly knows what he's doing.
🐹🚘 still unpacking this plot
Same!
Assemble across this a couple months ago out of the blue and I'm really glad I found it because it's beautiful it's heartwarming it's heartbreaking but it's so life affirming. It's about how trauma can change us but not break us. Going from a victim to a survivor. It's beautiful. Simple as that, absolutely beautiful.
My theory was that the wolf or A wolf had sexually assaulted the goats as well, and that’s why the mother goat is so insistent on keeping them hidden after rescuing them. The older the goats are, the more scars they have, showing that they had been abused before their younger siblings and suffer the most trauma. All in all, every scar in the film would represent how much trauma the children had received. And of course the eldest goat who had died, had been abused so terribly that he had passed away. Just a theory but I hope I explained it decently lol.
Why are there so many links-
This is actually a good theory because it makes sense most theory’s are random garbage but this is well thought out nice job:)
Dude, Saber bot, impersonation is _not_ cool.
Saw this exact same comment word for word on Steve Reviews' video lmao
@@ItsMeLarky so they wanted to share their theory on two different videos
I’m really happy animation is pushing boundaries like this. Telling uncomfortable topics like this is amazing
This one just hit different fr. It will always be one of the most thought provoking and interesting short films I’ve seen, and I honestly love how the symbolism is so good while maintaining a level of respect.
Something else that really stuck with me is the oldest boy/goat died. In some
cultures, the oldest son is the strongest and most reliable. Just goes to show that no matter what, some can’t survive their trauma.
i remember watching this and it was a disturbing experience, thanks for covering it!
Can you 3 shut up.
This short actually comes off as relatable once you realize how one can interpret it. Ir almost feels like realizing that your trauma is not reversible, You cannot get rid of it and it never leaves you. The part when the mother pulls the children from the wolf feels like when its finally over but the damage was done. Nothing can change that. I love this story so much, It really does help me.
This short scared me at first. The melted wool and the gore was something I hated seeing. But then I saw the true meaning, and I couldn’t stop watching. Even though it scared me, it made me feel sad for the little boy and the goat children. I think the fact that it’s in stop motion really aids to that feeling. Great short, hope you do more reviews on shorts!
I watched about half of this video but couldn't take watching more. The mention of what happens with the human boy brought back some of my own memories. Kudos to the short's creator, though, for spending so many years making something so heavy and while I have to bow out, I appreciate you Saber for covering this.
i can’t really put into words exactly how i felt watching this short but i’m so thankful you posted about it. i’ve been a stop motion fan for ages and i’ve always admired how people use art to vent their traumas / touch on sensitive topics. this was an absolutely beautiful, horrifying short that i’m glad i saw. the baby goats and the little boy ending the short in their own colorful little capes, beginning to heal from their traumas together had me near tears, as did the most disfigured goat making sure the little boy was okay after his attack before holding onto him. the topic is one that’s so terrifying and hard to talk about and experience. the metaphor of the goats’ fur having been destroyed and melted away was tragic and hit home, that feeling of being a little more broken when you look in the mirror, not knowing what to do with yourself. im not a victim of csa, but as someone who dealt with a form of sa a few years back, it still touched a nerve in a way i didn’t expect. what an absolutely gorgeous, depressing, artful film, and what an interesting way to address such a horrifying subject. thank you for putting me onto this, saber.
forgive the fact that i already commented before this, i needed to better express my thoughts with a longer comment. i don’t have the right words for this short.
@Deadpool. Bot + Ratio
I love how this animated short film shows what happens to an individual and the people around them when it come to trauma. I wont speak on everybody that went through the same thing but I'm a victim of r-pe and i cried so much seeing how they accurately portrayed how sexual abuse affects the kid and how heart broken their guardian can be, i know some people ended up getting scolded/punished after telling others what happened and i just feel very sorry about it, that's why I consider myself lucky that my mom tried her best not to react the way i didn't want her to
I binged watch majority of Tomoki’s content, and each video left me stunned. My Little Goat was truly one of the most disturbing one out of all of the one I already watched, but it truly was a masterpiece.
As a survivor, I always appreciate shorts like these. It makes me feel less alone seeing someone represent this trauma with so much care. Also if anyone wants to see any more animated shorts that are great like these, I really recommend OPAL by Jack Staubers :)
I probably will not watch this on it’s own (I get squeamish with gore in any 3d environment), but I will say that it’s an amazing message and actually well made from the small parts shown!
@Bully peter funny how I’m getting this FROM a bot!😂
I, an author myself, strive to be able to convey messages like this. To shock, surprise, sadden, and reveal things to the reader. I enjoy dark, "scary" content because if done well, it can tell a meaningful and impactful story. Then again, most genre's can and do so, but with dark themes added in; it reveals a new level of depth, and can hit much harder than more happy, cheerful stories. Not every story has a happy ending, but they all have lessons. You just have to look deeper, look past the characters. I want people who read my works to feel multiple feelings at once. Happy the danger has passed or been defeated, Sad of the cost, Fearful yet excited of what might come next, and that they can connect to the story and or the characters, or at least have their eyes opened to real struggles, and then mental, physical, and social impact it has on a person, creature, or even a monster. There isnt always a big plan to hurt and to gain power, sometimes it's just a bad situation. There doesn't always have to be a villain, especially with mental disorders and fear. Negative emotions are powerful, most often more impactful than positive emotions. Fear, Anxiety, Depression, Losing sight of who you are, Hating the person who you see in the mirror, Can be lessened and bettered by positive interactions/experiences/feelings, yes, but in most cases, They hold the victim back. Anyone, even the bravest, once subjected to enough fear will run away. Anyone, even the happiest, once subjected to enough sadness will crumple and cry. Destruction will always, ALWAYS be there. But; Destruction clears things away; whether you liked it or not, and will always leave space for you to start again. Every forest that burns to the ground leaves its once blooming with life floor as a fertile spread, ready for the new seeds and trees to grow. It's hard to get back up and run, but everytime you do, it gets a little easier. It wont be flat out easy, but... Easier.
That short really hits home for me, I went through something really similar, only I didn't have anyone like the mom character when I was going through it. It's made fantastically and I think it does a great job at showing how much of an issue CSA is through the brutal truth of what it is
oh my god i’m so glad more people are finding out about this short film!! i found it over the summer and have been completely obsessed with this man’s work since!
thanks so much for reviewing this absolute GEM saber
Clicked as soon as I saw the notif
I love this short film sm 😩👌
Edit: seriously tho, this short is absolutely amazing and is super respectful in tackling such a heavy topic. It deeply resonated with me and just watching this video made me cry. 13/10
I decided to watch the short for myself before getting too far into this video and I'm very glad I did. It's a beautiful, engaging short with brilliantly executed storytelling and characters. The way I expected a certain twist only for it to be completely flipped on its head was impressive. I'm very interested in seeing more of Tomoki Misato's work and hope that he's able to pursue larger productions in the future (if only so he doesn't have to spend a decade making it all by himself).
I remember first watching this short early December of 2020 (which contained Spanish and English subtitles) which is no longer up. I still love this short because of how beautiful the lighting for some shots turned out and the voice acting (especially Mother Goat's voice). The short gained a lot of Spanish viewers to the point that a majority of fanart was from Spanish viewers. Also, "The Wolf And The Seven Young Goats" is very popular in Japan where it gained a lot of anime adaptations between the 70s and 80s on children's anime.
I watched this after seeing it covered at Steve Reviews. I find it very hopeful and positive despite the subject matter. It's not "about" abuse, it's about grieving and recovery.
This film literally broke my heart. It’s terrifying and sad
I'm a survivor of years of CSA, and my little goat spoke to me in a way very few short films about the subject ever did.
It does not ignore the despair of the situation, it gives the small children physical scars that survivors have on their mind. It's disturbing, but it's supposed to be. Honestly, I related to the oldest girl lamb so much throughout it, some of her actions, her words, her mistrust reminded me of how I was when I was younger. When I had been hurt and was so scared of having those I love around me be hurt in the same way, so scared of being hurt again.
But at the same time, it shows some bittersweet hope. The little lambs and child don't "get better", but they adapt, they heal. The scars didn't leave, they probably will never leave, but they faded to an extent.
They also have better ways to protect themselves now, and while of course they shouldn't even have to need these things, and of course it doesn't *erase* the chance of it happening again, but it helps, not just bc of the protection it brings, but also bc of the comfort that feeling more prepared, more protected can give to a survivor.
I myself started lifting weights, getting more muscle, because it makes me feel a bit safer. Logically, it doesn't do all that much, but knowing that I can throw a few punches now makes me feel a bit better, it's a small comfort you know?
I watch this short movie whenever I have a "bad trauma" day, honestly. Because seeing these little lambs go through something awfu like I did, suffer like I did, and still, at the end, be able to keep going, keep living, keep adapting, helps me alot.
I just really hope the creator of the short is doing well, bc it really feels like it was made from some sort of personal experience.
Not to worry, Misato-san is still working. In fact, he's working on Pui Pui Molcar right now!
i actually got disturbed when i watched this. thank you for reacting to it!
I watched this when it first came out and it broke me. I wasn’t abused by a member of my family, but by a family friend’s older child. This short really put this in a great way.
I love this short so much, it’s breathtakingly beautiful and handled such a difficult topic amazingly well.
Also like I’d just recently learned about Annihilation and first found the clip of the bear scene, which already deeply disturbed me, but I was not at all prepared for the intestines scene and felt very ill for the rest of the day. I can handle certain body horror, but that was definitely beyond what I was prepared for and left an impact.
The mother was definitely in a state of coping and grief.She thought Yoruku was a sheep and took care of Yoruku because of the trauama of not wanting to let go.This short was so powerful with such cute looking characters like smiling friends
Damn this movie sounds pretty hardcore, I got respect for the creator for taking the time to create such a story no matter how uncomfortable it makes people.
Honestly, I am glad that all of the kids finally found a community in each other. I think this is to show how many abuse survivors mostly have to find a community with each other as everyone else is more hostile or misunderstanding.
"And then it takes a dark turn."
Oh come on how BAD could it possibly BE-?
"The father s*xually assaults the boy."
Oh.
Dude I started crying just watching your review saber, I'm probably not going to be able to watch the short. I have never even been abused that way. But it still tickles a deeper sadness in me it seems
Saw the title and decided to watch it before I watched this. It was emotionally hard to watch once the symbolism revealed itself, but a story that needed to be done. Tomoki Misato did a fantastic job with it.
this.. really hits home for me. although he wasn't sexually abusive, my father was very manipulative, and emotionally abusing. my mom was the only thing that really protecting me from him. me and my brothers have gone through a lot of stuff cus of him, but thank god it didn't rob me of my innocence back then. i could still somewhat enjoy life for a few more years.
This meaningful animated short along with others that aren't afraid to tackle very heavy , mature, serious, sometimes fucked-up but realistic themes also subject matter is the reason why I love animation so much. My Little Goat is a fine example of why this medium can be seen as so much more then just "Kids STuff ", when it's basically can be for anyone as well as be used to tell a multitude of vast stories and important topics such as CSA or other Iffy themes within life that needs to be talked about instead of pretending things like this don't happen or try to hide it like it's not a real problem in our world. While I do like live-action series / movies...I swear nothing will beats the ever creative, unlimited imaginative tool that is animation as a medium, especially when it comes to shorts like these.
This video was one of my favorite animations I’ve seen in a very long time. It’s absolutely stunning