Following the sudden passing of her father, 11-year-old Momo Miyaura relocates from Tokyo along with her mother to an ancient remote island in Seto Inland Sea. The only keepsake she has left behind is a half-finished letter containing just two words: "Dear Momo." This discovery leaves her feeling unsettled and confused, as she tries to make sense of the sudden change in her life.
As she settles into her new surroundings, Momo finds herself struggling to adapt to the outdated wooden structures, barren fields, and enigmatic secluded shrines that populate the small town. Despite her initial reluctance, she perseveres and tries to make the best of her situation.
One day, while exploring the attic of her new home, Momo stumbles upon a tattered picture book about youkai. This discovery sets in motion a series of strange events that begin to unfold around town. Soon enough, Momo is confronted by the arrival of three mischievous youkai who wreak havoc on the small community.
Throughout this journey, Momo e no Tegami tells the story of a young girl as she grapples with her new reality and tries to make sense of her father's mysterious letter. As she navigates through the challenges that come her way, Momo learns valuable lessons about acceptance, courage, and the power of community support.
The Toronto International Film Festival hosted the world premiere of A Letter to Momo (Momo e no Tegami) anime film as part of the September 8-18, 2011 events TIFF Kids program. During the 14th Future Film Festival, held in Italy during 2012, the film won the Future Film Platinum Grand Prize. It also won the 2012 Asia Pacific Screen Award for Best Animated Feature Film.
Yuuko Hara