Animated Film Featuring Pepe Vielhaben in the Lead Role

Poupelle and the Other Side of the Sky

Dubbing with Children

Yesterday was an incredibly special day for our family. Together with our son Pepe, we watched his first film, where he voiced the lead child role. Pepe voices the young chimney sweep Lubbichi in the heartwarming anime Poupelle and the Other Side of the Sky. This film has captured not only our hearts but also those of audiences around the world.

A Magical Journey Through the Sky

The film tells the story of Lubbichi, who must take on responsibility for himself and his mother after the death of his father, Bruno. He works as a chimney sweep in a city shrouded in thick smoke. But Lubbichi is convinced that behind this smoke lies a sparkling starry sky—a vision his father often spoke of. This idea never leaves him, and his life takes an unexpected turn when he meets a strange garbage monster named Poupelle.

Together, Lubbichi and Poupelle embark on a journey to uncover the secret of the stars. Along the way, a touching story unfolds about friendship, tolerance, and the search for truth.

The Vision of Author Akihiro Nishino

The story of Poupelle and the Other Side of the Sky comes from the mind of Japanese author Akihiro Nishino. Not only did he write the children’s book on which the film is based, but he also penned the screenplay for the anime adaptation. The story has received international acclaim and was celebrated at prestigious film festivals. In Germany, the wait is finally over, as the film had its German premiere at Nippon Connection in 2023, just before its DVD release.

Both visually and thematically, this film has much to offer and will delight not just anime fans. It’s impressive how the film touches on diverse themes, from friendship and tolerance to the search for personal truth. The smoke over the city becomes a powerful symbol, and the film even delves into social criticism.

A Thought-Provoking Journey

The film's narrative is classic, as Lubbichi and Poupelle encounter adventures and dark figures who try to stop them on their journey.

Yet within this adventure, deep themes are explored, prompting the audience to reflect. Poupelle and the Other Side of the Sky encourages viewers to seek their own answers and not simply accept old truths.

This film offers plenty of food for thought and is perfect for discussing important topics with children.

It’s a joy to stumble through this fascinating world with Lubbichi and Poupelle, to search and marvel together. Perhaps you too will start dreaming again about the things often overlooked in the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Working Creatively and Productively with Kids

Pepe thoroughly enjoyed spending several days at the Think Global Media dubbing studio with his team under director Tom Sielemann.

He especially loved being able to work intensively on his role with Tom. In a very child-friendly way, they watched parts of the film, discussed moving scenes, and shared laughs.

Pepe was often deeply affected by the events in the film, and it was important to give him space to process these emotions, both during the work and in conversations afterward.

 

Thank you to Crunchyroll for this special challenge!