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Time of India
20 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
War, Peace and Pop Culture
picture credits - What happens when the struggle for political supremacy between two nations ends up becoming the life of a commoner? In some cases, it brings out the worst in people, whereas in others, it destroys their hopes for a better future. Some of the greatest animated works ever created stem from a single, haunting question, 'What are the effects of war on those who had no part in it?' It is time for the world to decide whether they would fight for power or for peace. War Through the Eyes of Animation From post-war trauma to modern-day globalisation, animation has come a long way. Once introduced as a gateway to fantasy and child-centric entertainment, animation has now evolved into a medium for social commentary, cultural reflection and emotional depth. Animated masterpieces like One Piece, Naruto, Grave of the Fireflies, and even video games such as Warcraft and Wolfenstein have at times offered rich narratives into the impact of war. image credits - Studio Ghibli by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Keep Your Home Efficient with This Plug-In elecTrick - Save upto 80% on Power Bill Learn More Undo Case Studies: Fireflies, Pirates, and Pain Back in 1988, when Studio Ghibli was a relatively new entity, it gave us Grave of the Fireflies. Set against the backdrop of the brutal Hiroshima-Nagasaki bombings during World War II, the film explores the lives of a young war-orphaned duo navigating life with whatever sliver of hope they can find just to keep their heads above water. Throughout this film, we experience different stages of emotions, including grief, betrayal, trauma, loss and apathy. Between 2014 and 2016, One Piece aired one of its greatest storylines, Dressrosa Arc, with primary antagonist Donquixote Doflamingo. A high-borne noble, forced to the life of common folk due to a decision made by his father. He was shown guilty of many crimes, such as forcing slavery, fratricide, trafficking, attempted genocide, mass murder and usurpation, among many others. While it is difficult to appreciate someone like him, one of his quotes struck a universal chord. 'Kids who have never seen peace and kids who have never seen war have different values!' Img credits - Eichiro Oda/One Piece anime/Toei Animation Naruto, another highly appreciated anime, once brought to life what can be called as the 'physical embodiment of one's true pain.' One of the most intimidating villains in the history of fantasy entertainment, Pain was one of the three war-orphaned kids barely surviving in a desolate land. Arguably Pain's motive was justifiable, but his actions weren't. While most of Pain's screentime was about sharing philosophical reflections about trauma, sacrifice and loss, there are some that truly stand out. 'No matter how pathetic the reason, it's enough to start a war,' indicating that the leaders don't always need a reason to send their men to die for them. 'Those who do not understand true pain can never understand true peace,' echoing Doflamingo's quote on acceptance, 'If you don't share someone's pain, you can never understand them,' indeed. Img credits - Masashi Kishimoto/Naruto Anime/Pierrot and Aniplex What Pop Culture Teaches Us About Peace Animation is no longer confined to childhood nostalgia or niche fandoms. It's a living, evolving reflection of our collective hopes, traumas, and curiosities. Whether it's a war film like Grave of the Fireflies or the swashbuckling, freedom-loving world of One Piece , these stories have not only depicted pop culture but have become pillars of it. The only thing we win from a war is orphans and the only thing worth fighting for is peace. As Varian Wrynn, a protagonist from Blizzard Entertainment's popular video game series World of Warcraft, once said, 'Peace is the noblest aspiration. But to preserve it, you must be willing fight.' Img credits - of Warcraft/Blizzard Entertainment As global conflicts continue to displace millions, perhaps it's time we listened more closely to the stories we consume, because in those animated worlds, the line between fantasy and reality often blurs, revealing who we really are. In a world increasingly defined by visual storytelling, perhaps animation is the truest mirror we have of who we are — and who we aspire to be.


Buzz Feed
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
16 Sad And Disturbing Movies That People Can't Rewatch
Recently, u/0xHermione asked r/AskReddit, "What's a movie that disturbed you so much, you'd never watch it again?" So we thought we'd share some of the top responses: Requiem For a Dream "Amazing, impactful movie, but once was enough for me."–_MyCatsNameIsBinx"I'm a college professor and I used to show it in class to illustrate the parallels between Rx pill addiction and heroin addiction."–Fun_Low777Brief description: This harrowing film depicts the traumatic and destructive effects of addiction as it follows four people whose lives are crumbling as a result of their habits. Grave of the Fireflies "I wouldn't say this one was disturbing, but incredibly sad and poignant. And yes, I couldn't get myself to watch it again."–Kirosky"I watched this and then immediately followed it up with Spirited Away. Grave of the Fireflies needs a chaser."–QCs_diner_patronBrief description: This animated film depicts the destructive impact of war as it follows two orphaned siblings trying to survive in war-torn Japan during WWII. Bambi "I was six. I cried so hard I threw up and blamed the dog. He got yelled at. I've lived with that guilt for 20 years. Still won't rewatch it."–Machineabyss764Brief description: This animated Disney film is about a young deer having to grow up in the forrest alone, learning about loss and life. What Dreams May Come "I love this movie but I don't think I can watch it again."–EfficientDismal"I cried way too long during the closing scenes and then walked out of the theater asking myself questions about my existence and mortality that I never want to ask myself again."–jasonmarsellBrief description: This emotional film is about a man risking his afterlife in heaven in order to save his wife from the depths of despair. Schindler's List "I think everyone should watch it once, but once is enough."–emceekatie"I first watched this last year while eating pho in bed. I spilled boiling broth on my pants but it was during the train part toward the end and I couldn't move or look away. I ended up with a quarter-sized burn on my leg by the time the movie ended. No regrets."–YandojiBrief description: This historical drama is the story of Oskar Schindler, who, despite the horrors that surround him, endeavours to save the lives of over a thousand Jewish refugees during the Holocaust. The Butterfly Effect "I unfortunately watched this movie as a kid. It had quite an impact on me and definitely left me with some trauma. I thought I'd never watch it again, but my roommate convinced me to and that version had a different ending. Not sure which I saw but the first time I watched it, I was depressed for three entire days."–Narcissista"I watched this years ago then a couple of night ago it was on. So the wife and I started watching it again… that scene with the dad taking home movies came on and I suddenly remembered…. 'Nope! Turn it off now!' That movie is just hauntingly miserable."–BeershedfredBrief description: When a man discovers that he can travel back in time to crucial events in his life, he doesn't consider the harrowing consequences of his interferences. Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father "Man, everyone should see this film once because it is so well done and a wonderful homage to the filmmakers friend. But holy shit, I don't think I could bring myself to watch it again. The friend did such a good job telling the story that halfway through I had to turn it off and finish it another day. I was absolutely heartbroken but also FURIOUS. I have never had a film make me feel such raw, fruitless, immeasurable anger in my life. And there is nowhere to point it."–TheDreamingMyriadBrief description: This devastating documentary follows a filmmaker who is attempting to honour his late friend whilst showing his friend's son who his father was. In doing so, the filmmaker uncovers a tragic story of loss and tragedy. Threads "Threads.. the BBC movie about a limited nuclear exchange. The most matter of fact and horrible deaths. The loss of dignity in dying from radiation sickness… It hit so hard!"–caduceushugsBrief description: This haunting film focuses on the real life impact of nuclear war through the eyes of two families in Britain. Kids "I feel like it had made it's point by one hour in, the last 30 minutes just felt unnecessary, but oh god it hammered that point home. Great movie, but once was enough."–DetLoinsBrief description: This movie, set over the course of one day in New York, follows a group of teens who are exploring debauchery and adolescence in a reckless, disturbing way. Se7en "The only movie I walked out of deeply regretting that I'd seen it. I felt like my heart was poisoned."–staceychevBrief description: We follow two detectives who are on the hunt for a serial killer whose crimes are inspired by the seven deadly sins. Mother! "It was a 120 minute long anxiety attack."–Rowsdowers_Revenge"Agreed. I hated it until the end and then I loved it, but once really is enough."–TheFemale72Brief description: This disturbing psychological thriller follows the peculiar events that surround a couple living a fairly peaceful life. When people begin to barge in uninvited, a series of disturbing and chaotic events unfurl. The Lovely Bones "Incredible film, so well done that you almost hate Stanley Tucci because he plays the role so well. Don't think I could watch it again since having a daughter, though!"–CraigusFragglusBrief description: This supernatural drama is centred around a family struggling to deal with the murder of their daughter. Not wanting to move into the afterlife, the daughter in question remains in purgatory, watching over her distressed family and her killer. The NeverEnding Story "Artax in the swamp of sadness messed up all the '80s kids. We didn't even talk about that scene on the playground. Everyone tried to suppress that memory."–OldElPasoSnowplowBrief description: This fairytale story follows a lonely boy, Bastain, who is magically transported to the land of Fantasia after reading an old book in the book shop. The land is under threat from a dark force called The Nothing, and Bastian must try to save it. Once We Were Warriors "Very hard watch, even harder rewatch. Not for the faint of heart."–El_Guerrero_MayaBrief description: This visceral drama follows a Māori family in New Zealand. We see the impact of domestic violence, poverty, and unrest in a brutal way. The Human Centipede "FOR REAL. My son had asked about it once because he wanted to watch a horror movie. I told him, 'bro, you can't ever unsee it, I promise you don't want to watch it,' and I described the premise of the movie. Well, a few weeks later he ended up seeing the South Park parody and cried." –nortstar621Brief description: This body horror depicts a scientist who kidnaps three tourists in order to perform a horrific experiment on them, attempting to conjoin the three of them together to form a sort of human centipede. Midsommar "I'm not a horror girlie, but this was my favourite movie. The tension, music, scenery, and story are perfect. This wasn't even a supernatural horror, just people doing it to each other which is more terrifying. That being said, I watched it in theatres when it was released and have NEVER seen it since. I was too terrified. Will I recommend it as the best scary movie? Yes. Will I ever watch it again? Fuck no." –extrabeesBrief description: This folk horror is centred around a group of grad students who visit a remote Swedish commune at the time of Midsommar festival; the unnerving traditions of the community begin to reveal themselves in horrific ways. H/T to u/0xHermione and r/AskReddit for having the discussion! Any of your own to add? Let us know in the comments below!


Time of India
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
5 saddest moments in the history of anime shows
5 saddest moments in the history of anime shows (Image Source: Netflix) Anime lovers know how emotionally traumatic an anime can be. The sweet-looking characters can make a deep scar that will take years to heal. From tons of saddest moments in the world of anime, here's a list of the most emotional moments that every anime fan will shed tears to, only by thinking of it. Grave of the Fireflies ending One of the saddest anime movies, Grave of the Fireflies, still churns an anime-lover's heart. This Studio Ghibli movie, showcases the after effects of war through Seita and Setsuko's eyes. Both Seita and Setsuko try to sustain in the war-effected world, by trying to search for food and a roof. The most traumatic part happens when Setsuko dies due to lack of nutrition just when Seita was able to find some food. Like the twisted irony was not enough, even Seita dies at the end of the movie due to malnutrition. The sad ending is enough to make any grown adult break down into tears. Full Metal Alchemist Brotherhood : Realizing truth behind Chimera One of the most famous anime series, Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood had some of the most exciting and emotional moments throughout. However, one of the most emotional moment was when the Elric brothers realized the truth behind the Chimera that Tucker had created. For context, the Elric brothers met Nina, the daughter of Tucker, and her pet dog, while trying to find how to get their bodies back. The characters grew close during the investigation. However, after some time, both Nina and her dog went missing. During that time, Tucker went on to become famous after creating a Chimera, which also helped him renew his licence. The real shock came when anime fans realized that Tucker fused Nina and her pet dog's bodies to create the Chimera. A father killing his own daughter for profit is not only twisted but also heartbreaking. Naruto Shippuden: When Naruto met Kushina While talking about the saddest moments in anime history, one cannot forget the moment when Naruto met his mother Kushina for the first time. When Naruto was trying to control the nine-tailed fox, the Kyuubi went out of control, due to which Naruto was able to meet Kushina. At first Naruto thought it was the nine tales true form but later realized that it is Kushina, his mother. Naruto never got to know who his parents were as they died right after he was born. He also had no idea how his mother looked like up until this moment. Kushina and Naruto had a mother to son conversation where Kushina explained that Minato (naruto's father) had sealed a bit of her chakra inside him so that she can help him when he wants to take control of the nine tail. However, the most emotional part of the conversation was how Naruto was telling all about his life to Kushina, his habits, what he's doing now, and how he's trying to become better. Even if it was for some minutes, the entire scenario was emotional for fans. One Piece: Death of Ace One piece introduced us to one of the saddest moment in anime with the demise of Portgas D. Ace, son of Gol D. Roger, and the soul-brother of Luffy. The Marineford arc brought sorrow to the fans when Ace died while saving his brother Luffy. The scene broke fans' hearts. However, what hurt more was Luffy, who is known for his carefree and cheerful nature, cried holding his brother. The bond between Ace and Luffy is extremely heartwarming which is why Ace's death is one of the saddest in one piece. Besides, when Ace's execution was taking place, his conversation with Garp is also considered as one of the saddest moments. As Garp was from the Marines, he couldn't do anything but watch his grandson die in front of his eyes. Attack on Titan: Armin and Eren conversation The final season of Attack on Titan should be watched with a box of tissues, as one won't stop crying during it. Besides, the final season features one of the craziest plot twist. Once the battle was over and the heroes stop the rumbling, Armin had a heart to heart with Eren. Here, Eren explains his plan, and the vision he had, for which he had to take such drastic measures. Armin and Eren were interacting like two old friends, which fans saw after a long time. What made the scene emotional was that this was the last conversation that both friends were going to have. Though, it was a sad moment, it gives proper closure and explanation regarding all the turn of events that took place. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .


Time of India
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Grab the tissues: 5 emotional anime that will break your heart
Anime goes far beyond just action, fantasy, or comedy it's also home to some of the most touching and emotionally impactful stories out there. If you're looking for something that will truly move you, these heartbreaking anime series and movies are sure to stir your emotions and stay with you long after the credits roll. From heart-wrenching tales of love and loss to powerful stories of redemption and sorrow, here are five emotional anime that are almost certain to bring tears to your eyes. 5 emotional anime that will break your heart Grave of the Fireflies - Netflix Based on Akiyuki Nosaka's 1967 semi-autobiographical short story of the same name, the film is set in Kobe, Japan, and follows the harrowing journey of siblings Seita and Setsuko—war orphans fighting to survive during the closing months of the Pacific War. Fruits Basket - Crunchyroll Tohru Honda crosses paths with the enigmatic Sohma family, who are burdened by a peculiar curse that turns some of them into animals of the Chinese Zodiac. As she grows closer to them, Tohru witnesses the pain and hardship the curse causes and becomes determined to help them find a way to break it. Clannad - Prime Video God I love anime couples because there the embodiment of pure love and happiness My dream relationship to have 🥰🥰🥰 The Clannad anime series is an adaptation of the visual novel Clannad developed by the Japanese company Key. It centers around Tomoya Okazaki, a troubled high school student whose outlook on life begins to shift after he meets Nagisa Furukawa, a girl who is a year older than him. Given - Crunchyroll The Given anime will be streaming internationally on Crunchyroll! Given is a Japanese manga series created by Natsuki Kizu. It tells the story of four students who come together to form an amateur rock band, while also exploring two evolving romantic relationships, one between the electric guitarist Ritsuka Uenoyama and the vocalist Mafuyu Satō, and the other between the bassist Haruki Nakayama and the drummer Akihiko Kaji. A Silent Voice - Crunchyroll A Silent Voice is a 2016 Japanese animated drama film based on Yoshitoki Ōima's manga of the same name. It tells the story of a former bully who, now isolated from others, attempts to make amends by reaching out to the deaf girl he had bullied years earlier.


Time Out
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Netflix Japan to air ‘Grave of the Fireflies' from July 15
Grab your tissues, folks. Netflix Japan has announced it will stream Grave of the Fireflies starting from July 15. The critically acclaimed tearjerker has been available in 190 other countries and regions since September of last year, though this summer marks the first time it will be streamable specifically on Netflix Japan. Grave of the Fireflies – released in 1988 and directed by the late Isao Takahata – is an animated film based on the semi-autobiographical novel of the same name by Akiyuki Nosaka. The emotionally gripping film tells the story of 14-year-old Seita and his little sister Setsuko as they struggle to survive the brutalities of the Second World War. The timing of the streaming is especially poignant, since this year marks the 80th anniversary of the air raid on Kobe, as depicted in the picture.