We recently watched Grave of the Fireflies, and let’s just say, we were not prepared for how much it would hit us right in the feels. This Studio Ghibli film, directed by Isao Takahata, tells the story of two siblings, Seita and Setsuko, as they struggle to survive during the final months of World War II in Japan. Right from the start, we knew it wasn’t going to be an easy watch, especially with the heartbreaking opening scene. Even though it’s an animated movie, it doesn’t hold back when it comes to showing the harsh realities of war. We definitely recommend having some tissues nearby because this one is a tear-jerker.
The animation itself is stunning, which we’ve come to expect from Studio Ghibli. What really stood out to us was the choice to use brown outlines instead of the usual black. It gave the film a softer, vintage vibe that fit perfectly with the story’s flashback style. Every scene was packed with tiny details, from the vibrant landscapes to the more somber moments that felt almost painfully real. We couldn’t help but admire how the colours shifted with the moo; warm tones during the siblings’ happy moments and cooler, darker shades when things took a turn for the worse.
One of the things that stuck with us was how well the film balanced the innocence of childhood with the harshness of war. Watching Setsuko’s playful nature and Seita’s determination to protect her brought some light to the story, even if it was just for a little while. The fireflies were such a powerful symbol, representing both fleeting beauty and the fragility of life. It’s heartbreaking to see how these small moments of joy are so short-lived in the midst of all the chaos. We were all a bit speechless when the scene came where Setsuko buried the fireflies, and you could just feel the weight of what was coming next.
We couldn’t help but compare the tone of this movie to other Ghibli films, especially since Takahata’s style is so different from Miyazaki’s more hopeful approach. There’s no sugar-coating here; it’s a brutally honest look at the cost of war, especially on the most vulnerable. It reminded us of films like Schindler's List, where you’re not exactly left feeling uplifted, but you know you’ve watched something important. And that’s the thing; even though we probably won’t be rushing to watch it again anytime soon, we’re glad we experienced it.
TSHC Score: 9.5/10
Grave of the Fireflies is not just a war movie or an animated film, it’s a powerful story that leaves a lasting impact. The combination of beautiful animation, a haunting soundtrack, and an emotionally charged story makes it unforgettable, even if it’s a tough watch. It’s the kind of film that makes you appreciate the little things and reminds you of the real cost of war.
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