Run Melos! (1992)

"Run, Melos!" (1992) is a Japanese animated film directed by Masaaki Osumi and produced by Visual 80. It is the second adaptation of Osamu Dazai's 1940 short story of the same name, and a remake of the 1981 animated film. This 107-minute movie tells the story of Melos, an honest shepherd, who is arrested for plotting to assassinate the tyrant Dionysius. To attend his sister's wedding, Melos asks for a three-day reprieve, with his friend Selinuntius acting as a hostage. Despite facing numerous challenges on his return journey, Melos keeps his promise, demonstrating his friendship and loyalty. This forces the tyrant to reconsider his views, showcasing the story's core theme: unwavering friendship. The film is the second of three animated versions of "Run, Melos!", with the others released in 1981 and 2009.