Nov 23, 2009
"To children ardent for some desperate glory,
The old Lie; Dulce et Decorum est
Pro patria mori"
- Wilfred Owen
This film is personally one of the most emotional things I have ever witnessed. It takes place near the end of the second world war war in Kobe, Japan and follows the lives of two children: Seita and Setsuko.
(*Synopsis/Spoiler Warning*)
---+The children quickly become orphaned as their mother is killed in the fire bombing by the Americans, and their father is absent, serving in the Imperial Japanese Navy and are forced to live with their extended family. The cruel nature of a
...
war-torn country quickly reveals itself as the two children are shunned and resented by their fellow citizens and family for simply being children and are viewed as burden and miscreants by society. The two children flee their unloving second family and try to make it on their own, and a harsh struggle for survival quickly ensues as food and shelter are scarce in the war-time Japan. +---(*end*)
The animation is typical of a late 80's anime, however is still tastefully done, and the music provides an adequate undertone for the content of the movie. The characters and plot are unquestionably what makes this movie special. As Seita and Setsuko face the challenges that are inherent in their historical backdrop and specific circumstances of their lives, it becomes very easy to connect with them. The fates and actions of the characters become extremely thoughtfully and emotionally provoking and, in my case, forces self analysis to anyone living in a peaceful era. Riddled with sentimentality and symbolism, this film is a must-see.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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