Personal rating - 8.5/10
I understood going into this movie that it wasn't a happy feel-good kind of film. But nothing prepares you for the harsh depths of reality this movie explores.
The name, "Seita" is still ringing in my mind, yelled by Setsuko as tears streamed down her face. Haunting is certainly the only way to describe it. The relationship between the two siblings that are the protagonists of this film is beautiful, for anyone with younger siblings this movie hits even harder, believe me.
I want to briefly talk about fireflies. You'll never look at them the same after this movie, the symbolism and visuals tied to those small creatures was breathtaking. Proving it's usually the overlooked things that shine the brightest but fade the quickest. You have to appreciate what you have before it's gone.
I don't want to dive too deep that I get into spoiler territory, so let me just highly recommend you watch it. If anything the level of appreciation this film imparts for just simply living is worth it. Couple the hauntingly enchanting story with a beautiful soundtrack Studio Ghibli is so known for having, wonderful artistry, voice acting, and the piece of history this film is; it's a must-watch, but never watch again movie.
Disclaimer: I watched the original version with English subtitles, and the emotion behind the original vocal performances alone left your heart breaking.
I understood going into this movie that it wasn't a happy feel-good kind of film. But nothing prepares you for the harsh depths of reality this movie explores.
The name, "Seita" is still ringing in my mind, yelled by Setsuko as tears streamed down her face. Haunting is certainly the only way to describe it. The relationship between the two siblings that are the protagonists of this film is beautiful, for anyone with younger siblings this movie hits even harder, believe me.
I want to briefly talk about fireflies. You'll never look at them the same after this movie, the symbolism and visuals tied to those small creatures was breathtaking. Proving it's usually the overlooked things that shine the brightest but fade the quickest. You have to appreciate what you have before it's gone.
I don't want to dive too deep that I get into spoiler territory, so let me just highly recommend you watch it. If anything the level of appreciation this film imparts for just simply living is worth it. Couple the hauntingly enchanting story with a beautiful soundtrack Studio Ghibli is so known for having, wonderful artistry, voice acting, and the piece of history this film is; it's a must-watch, but never watch again movie.
Disclaimer: I watched the original version with English subtitles, and the emotion behind the original vocal performances alone left your heart breaking.