A Whisker Away (2020)

Sometimes, we wish we could escape our problems and become someone or something else. A Whisker Away (Nakitai Watashi wa Neko o Kaburu), a heartwarming and emotional fantasy romance, explores this idea through the eyes of a young girl who finds comfort in transforming into a cat.

With breathtaking animation, a touching story, and a unique take on love and self-acceptance, this film captures the struggles of growing up and the desire to be understood.

Movie Details

A Girl Who Wishes to Escape

Miyo Sasaki, nicknamed Muge (short for “Miss Ultra Gaga and Enigmatic”), is an energetic and quirky middle school girl. To outsiders, she seems cheerful and carefree, but deep inside, she hides a painful reality.

• Her home life is troubled—her mother left when she was young, and she lives with her father and stepmother, whom she struggles to accept.
• She harbors a deep crush on Kento Hinode, a quiet and serious classmate, but he doesn’t return her affections.

Desperate to escape her sadness, Miyo discovers a magical mask that allows her to transform into a white cat named “Tarō.”

A Secret Life as a Cat

In her cat form, Miyo is finally able to get close to Hinode. When she visits him, he opens up to her in ways he never does to humans, sharing his dreams and struggles.

• He wants to become a potter like his grandfather, but his family expects him to pursue a different career.
• He feels lonely and misunderstood, just like Miyo does.

As Tarō, Miyo sleeps beside him, listens to his thoughts, and experiences the warmth she longs for. But she also faces a growing problem—she starts losing her sense of identity as a human.

The Danger of Giving Up Humanity

The mask that allows Miyo to become a cat was given to her by the Mask Seller, a mysterious cat-like spirit. But there’s a price to pay—if she stays a cat for too long, she will never be able to return to her human form.

When Miyo’s sadness overwhelms her, she decides to abandon her human life entirely, giving up her mask as Miyo so she can stay with Hinode as Tarō forever.

But something unexpected happens—Hinode, who had never paid much attention to Miyo before, realizes how much he misses her when she disappears.

• He starts connecting the dots between Miyo and Tarō, suspecting they might be the same.
• He realizes he cares for Miyo in ways he never admitted before.

Meanwhile, another cat steals Miyo’s human face, fully transforming into “her” and taking her place in the human world. Now, Miyo must fight to reclaim her true self before she is lost forever.

Hinode’s Realization & The Journey to the Cat World

With the help of Kinako, a cat who regrets her own wish to become human, Hinode discovers the truth about the Mask Seller and the world of the “Invisible Island”, a hidden place where humans who become cats lose their memories and identity forever.

Determined to save Miyo, Hinode follows Kinako into this mysterious realm, facing trials and dangers along the way.

• He confronts the Mask Seller, demanding Miyo’s mask back.
• He declares his true feelings, finally understanding how much she means to him.
• Miyo, now aware that she wants to live as herself, fights back against the magic keeping her trapped.

Through their combined efforts, Miyo reclaims her human form, and they escape back to the real world.

A New Beginning

After returning, Miyo and Hinode share an emotional moment where they finally express their true feelings.

• Miyo confesses her love not just for Hinode, but also for herself—accepting both her strengths and weaknesses.
• Hinode, who once ignored her, now sees her as someone precious in his life.

They promise to be honest with each other and cherish the time they have together.

What A Whisker Away Teaches Us

This film explores deep themes that resonate with both young and adult audiences:

1. Running away doesn’t solve problems – Miyo tries to escape her pain by becoming a cat, but true happiness comes from facing reality.
2. Being seen and understood matters – Miyo feels invisible in her human life, but what she truly craves is connection.
3. Self-acceptance is key – Only when Miyo embraces her true self does she find genuine love and happiness.

My honest Review on A Whisker Away

• Beautiful Animation – The dreamy, vibrant visuals bring both the real world and the magical cat realm to life.
• A Unique Fantasy Story – The idea of turning into a cat to escape problems is both whimsical and emotional.
• Heartfelt Romance – Miyo and Hinode’s relationship evolves in a touching and meaningful way.
• Deep Themes – The movie tackles loneliness, family struggles, and self-worth in a relatable way.

This is a fantasy, romance, or emotional coming-of-age stories, A Whisker Away is a movie that will touch your heart.

FAQ – A Whisker Away

1. What is A Whisker Away about?
It’s a fantasy romance about a girl named Miyo who gains the ability to transform into a cat. As she spends time with her crush, Hinode, in cat form, she struggles with losing her human identity and must decide whether to return or stay a cat forever.

2. Is A Whisker Away sad?
While the movie has heartfelt and emotional moments, it ultimately has a hopeful and uplifting message about self-acceptance and love.

3. Where can I watch A Whisker Away?
The movie is available on Netflix worldwide.

4. Does A Whisker Away have a happy ending?
Yes! Miyo and Hinode find happiness together after overcoming their struggles.