老人Z
Original Title:老人Z
Languages:
- French: Roujin Z
- Spanish: Roujin Z
- Japanese: 老人Z
- Chinese: 老人Z
Roujin Z is a 1991 Japanese science fiction action anime film directed by Hiroyuki Kitakubo and written by Katsuhiro Otomo. Set in early 21st-century Japan, the film follows the development of the Z-001, a computerized hospital bed with robotic features designed to care for elderly patients. The first test subject is an elderly widower named Kijuro Takazawa. However, the bed is revealed to be a government-designed experimental weapons robot. The story revolves around a young nurse named Haruko and a group of hackers who attempt to stop the Z-001 from going out of control and rescue Takazawa. Known for its distinctive visuals, dark humor, and social commentary, the film explores themes of elder care, the clash between traditional values and modern technology, and Japanese remilitarization. Produced by A.P.P.P., the film features a story and screenplay by Katsuhiro Otomo, character designs by Hisashi Eguchi, and music by Bun Itakura. Upon its release, Roujin Z received critical acclaim and won the Mainichi Film Award for animation.