Latest news with #GraveoftheFireflies
Tokyo Weekender
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Tokyo Weekender
Grave of the Fireflies: The First Ghibli Movie To Stream in Japan Is Also Its Angriest
For the longest time, Studio Ghibli was against making its catalog available for streaming. But when Hayao Miyazaki needed funds for his third 'final' movie, The Boy and the Heron, the studio relented and Ghibli films began streaming around the world in 2020 — except for Japan, where Hayao Miyazaki preferred for Ghibli releases to be experienced primarily in cinemas. This will change on July 15, 2025, when Grave of the Fireflies comes to Netflix Japan. There are many reasons why this 1988 war anime by Isao Takahata was chosen to break the Ghibli streaming fast, but the biggest one is probably Ghibli not actually owning the rights to it. They reside with Shinchosha, the publisher of the original story the movie is based on. It's all for the best, though, since Grave of the Fireflies is the perfect movie for testing the streaming waters in Japan. After all, if people will flock to possibly the angriest entry in the entire Studio Ghibli collection, then all its other whimsical stuff should go down a treat! List of Contents: A Sad Movie That Should Make You Furious The Movie HAS Villains: Most of Its Adult Characters Children Are Not Small Adults Related Posts Image Courtesy of Netflix Media Center | © Akiyuki Nosaka / Shinchosha Publishing Co., 1988 A Sad Movie That Should Make You Furious Grave of the Fireflies is about two children who die of starvation. That's not a spoiler because the movie is almost 40 years old and, also, the film establishes the deaths of 14-year-old Seita and his 4-year-old sister Setsuko within the first few minutes. The movie may be one of the most infamously sad anime of all time, but if its goal was to make audiences cry, it would have toyed with our emotions more. It would have made us think that maybe Seita and Setsuko could've survived 1945 Japan on their own after the death of their mother in an air raid, only to then pull the rug out from under us. Instead, we know what happens to them from the get-go. So, while the two children's deaths are tragic and continue to be incredibly hard to watch, a closer look suggests that the movie wasn't aiming for tears. Rather, it seems to want our fury. But not fury aimed at war, since it wasn't war that killed Seita and Setsuko. It was a harsh, oppressive and uncaring society that utterly failed to stop its children from making a bunch of dumb, fatal mistakes. The Movie HAS Villains: Most of Its Adult Characters The vast majority of adults that Seita and Setsuko come across in the aftermath of their mother's death are horrible people. While they may not be traditional 'bad guys,' they nonetheless do function as antagonists and are ultimately responsible for two children dying of hunger. It wasn't really what they did, though, but rather what they didn't do. Seita and Setsuko's aunt, who takes them in but keeps calling them freeloaders — even after taking most of the food they bring with them and selling their mother's kimono for rice — is undeniably unkind. But her biggest sin is not stopping the two when Seita decides to move out into an abandoned bomb shelter. Yes, it was late-stage World War II and rations were dwindling — but when adults don't take care of kids, then what even is the point of society? Throughout the movie, we see many grownups who know that two children are roughing it out in inadequate living conditions, and no one lifts a finger to stop them. A farmer urges Seita to apologize to his aunt and get help from neighborhood organizations (i.e. rely on society), but it's not clear why he insists on talking to Seita as if he were an adult who has a say in the matter. Even the 'kindly' policeman who doesn't book Seita after he's caught stealing crops drops the ball because he just lets him go, doing nothing to protect the boy from his own still-developing, pride-filled, stupid brain. Children Are Not Small Adults Seita cannot be held responsible for moving out, not seeking medical attention for Setsuko sooner or waiting too long to buy nutritious food for them. Because he is a child. He does an admirable job for a lot of the movie as Setsuko's guardian, protecting her from air raids and keeping her spirits up. But that's where his 'adult' responsibilities should have ended. He should not be expected to know how to take care of himself, much less a 4-year-old, for the same reason we don't expect kids to make their own dinner every day: They'd either burn the house down or rot their teeth out of their mouths from eating nothing but chocolate. Seita and Setsuko should have been dragged, by force if necessary, back to their aunt, who should have been yelled at until she was shamed into acting like a human being. Then someone should have given Seita a serious talking to for thinking he had the right to risk not only his life, but also that of his little sister. Then another round of yelling at everyone who didn't want to get involved in the matter because it 'wasn't their place.' In the end, the bulk of Japanese society circa 1945 would get a dressing down for their astounding apathy, but maybe that was the point of the movie. Watch it for yourself when it premieres on Netflix on July 15 and see what you think. Editor's note: For those eager to delve deeper into Isao Takahata's work, an exhibition celebrating the late Ghibli director is currently running at Azabudai Hills Gallery. Check it out before September 15. Related Posts Isao Takahata Exhibition: The Man Who Planted Japanese Animation Barefoot Gen: The Unflinching Atomic Bomb Film From Japan's Perspective The Commodification of Studio Ghibli
SoraNews24
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- SoraNews24
Exhibition honoring Studio Ghibli's late Isao Takahata is now open in Tokyo's Azabudai Hills
The event features never-before-seen artwork and more to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the pioneering animation director's birth. Isao Takahata is perhaps best known to Western audiences as a founding member of the beloved Japanese animation company Studio Ghibli and as director of some of its most famous works, including Grave of the Fireflies (1988), Pom Poko (1994), and The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013). Born on October 29, 1935, Takahata took a leading role in shaping Japanese animation over the course of over 50 years, alongside frequent collaborator and friend Hayao Miyazaki, until his passing in 2018 at the age of 82. In honor of the 90th anniversary of Takahata's birth, a new exhibition titled Isao Takahata Exhibition: The Man who Planted Japanese Animation that's being held at Tokyo's Azabudai Hills Gallery is welcoming visitors between June 27 and September 15. ▼ Promotional poster for the exhibition featuring Setsuko, one of the main characters of Grave of the Fireflies The gallery features animation cells and background art from several of Takahata's iconic TV series and films such as Heidi, Girl of the Alps (1974), Grave of the Fireflies , and Pom Poko on display for the first time. Since this year also marks 80 years since the end of the Pacific War, special tribute is paid to the lasting legacy of Grave of the Fireflies. The film, which is often considered to be Takahata's masterpiece, follows two war orphan siblings in the aftermath of the 1945 fire bombings of Kobe. For this part of the exhibition, Hideki Anno, who served as a key animator for the film before going on to become a successful director for Neon Genesis Evangelion and more, has hand-selected impactful scenes to play at the gallery. ▼ Hideki's layout drawings for the Imperial Japanese Navy Heavy Cruiser Maya (as it appears in the film) are also revealed for the first time. Visitors can also purchase an audio guide featuring Japanese-language narration for an additional fee on top of the ticket price. This guide also comes bundled with a musical playlist curated by filmmaker Shunji Iwai, a distant relative of Takahata, designed to accompany the works of art throughout the gallery. ▼ Shunji Iwai Unlike most other art galleries, there are some hands-on, interactive elements to this exhibition. Visitors will delight in the giant Papanda prop from one of Takahata's earlier works, Panda! Go, Panda! (1972), and the ability to recreate the scene of Pan-chan flying to grab onto his dad's fluffy tummy for themselves. It certainly makes for a fun commemorative photo. In addition, it wouldn't be a Japanese exhibition without a tie-in collaboration cafe. The menu features a variety of foods and drinks that pay tribute to some of Takahata's most beloved works, including Panda! Go, Panda! curry. Finally, weekday visitors to the gallery will receive a free multi-use paper case with a drawing of Takahata inside. There are five versions in total, one for each day of the week featuring a different one of Takahata's productions. Online tickets for the Isao Takahata Exhibition: The Man who Planted Japanese Animation begin at 2,000 yen (US$13.87) for general admission with discounts for high school/university students, young children, and more. They can be purchased on the gallery's official website or via the Lawson Ticket site. Along similar lines, for some newly revealed artwork behind the unrealized concepts of Miyazaki, you may also be interested in this artbook to be released in early July. Exhibition information Isao Takahata Exhibition: The Man who Planted Japanese Animation / 高畑勲展 ̶日本のアニメーションを作った男。 Address: Tokyo-to, Minato-ku, Toranomon 5-8-1 Azabudai Hills Garden Plaza A, MB floor 東京都港区虎ノ門 5-8-1 麻布台ヒルズ ガーデンプラザA MB階 Duration: June 27-September 15 Open: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. (last entry at 7:30 p.m.); 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays from June 27-July 18 Website Source, images: PR Times (1, 2) ● Want to hear about SoraNews24's latest articles as soon as they're published? Follow us on Facebook and Twitter! [ Read in Japanese ]
Metropolis Japan
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Metropolis Japan
Takahata Isao Exhibition: The Man Who Planted Japanese Animation
The year 2025 marks two significant milestones: 80 years ago, the Pacific War came to an end, and 90 years ago, the legendary anime director, producer, and co-founder of Studio Ghibli, Isao Takahata (1935-2018), was born. In celebration of the 90th anniversary of Takahata's birth, Azabudai Hills Gallery presents a comprehensive retrospective exhibition on Takahata's profound legacy and significant impact on Japanese animation from June 27 to September 15. The exhibition is organized in collaboration with Studio Ghibli, and delves into Takahata's imposing artistic journey: Tracing his early inspirations, creative philosophy, and groundbreaking innovations in Japanese animation. The exhibition features a special focus on Grave of the Fireflies (1988), a highly moving anti-war film shaped by Takahata's own experience growing up during World War II. By exploring Takahata's wide range of productions–including celebrated early projects such as Heidi, Girl of the Alps (1974) and Anne of Green Gables (1979) to his influential contributions at Studio Ghibli, including Only Yesterday (1991), Pom Poko (1994) and his final production The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013)–the exhibition deepens and unfolds Takahata's indelible mark on Japanese animation. The exhibition is open every day from 10.00 am-8.00 pm (last entry 7.30 pm). Please note, that in the period from June 27 to July 18, Tuesdays and Sundays are 10.00 am-5 pm with last entry 4.30 pm. Head to the website to learn more about tickets and special tours offered as part of the exhibition.
Time of India
07-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
20 heartbreaking anime that will leave you in tears – From Grave of the Fireflies to Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
On the hunt for an anime that will wreck you emotionally? So, whether you're just getting into anime or you've been watching for years, these stories are so heartwarming and heartbreaking, they'll both move you to tears and possibly forever shift your perception of the world around you. Whether you're talking gut-wrenching war accounts or sob-inducing romance narratives, anime has a very particular approach to grief, recovery and the human experience. Over the weekend, Vulture posted their list of 'The 20 Anime Sure to Make You Cry,' and it's loaded with classic, can't-miss masterpieces that will give your heart a workout. Below is a summary of their favorite selections, with some background on why each is so tear-jerking. 1. Grave of the Fireflies (1988) This animated masterpiece from Studio Ghibli is a World war II classic as it offers a young boy and his sister's actions try to survive in war-torn Japan. The heartbreak here is palpable and haunting. It's a true story that uses real footage to tell what war really costs, from the perspective of the most innocent victims. 2. Parenthood high Clannad About story (2008) While the narrative begins as a tale of high school romance, it ultimately transforms into an emotional journey addressing themes such as mature life, loss, and the significance of familial bonds. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Dermatologist: This Household Item Is Like Bleach On Dark Spots Dark Spot Corrector Undo It tackles experiences that many of us face in life—finding a partner, raising children, loss and death—from an incredibly honest and heartfelt angle. 3. Your Lie in April (2014) A brilliant pianist, bedridden and mute after an accident, encounters an indomitable young violinist who reawakens his passion for music and life who herself is concealing a world-altering secret. The juxtaposition of the immaculate production, ill-fated young love with The Great Gatsby connection, and sheer tragic loss is staggering in the prettiest way. 4. A Silent Voice (Koe no Katachi) (2016) Having bullied a deaf classmate in high school, a teen's search for redemption many years later. A tale of remorse, absolution, and our shared humanity. It addresses themes of bullying, mental health, and the power of empathy. 5. I Want to Eat Your Pancreas (2018) Don't get duped by the name—it's a heartwarming, bittersweet romance between a misanthrope and the free-spirited girl enjoying life on borrowed time. It's a reminder to enjoy the present and appreciate your loved one while they're still here. 6. Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day (2011) A much more original novel about a group of childhood friends and their reunion, brought about by the ghost of a girl who died all those years ago. It's an honest take on grief, guilt, and the struggle to move on after a tragic loss. 7. Made in Abyss (2017) Despite its adorable hand painted aesthetic, this is a grim, haunting tale that follows the journey of children venturing into a giant, magical chasm teeming with peril. It juxtaposes filmic beauty with horror, innocence with tragedy. 8. 86 (Eighty-Six) (2021) A military sci-fi series that takes the romanticization out of racism, loss, and the high price of war—instead showing it all through the eyes of young soldiers. It's emotionally profound and politically astute. 9. Devilman Crybaby (2018) A frenetic, no-holds-barred anime that becomes one of the most gut-wrenching end-of-the-world tales ever made. It's the classic breakup novel — of love, fear, betrayal— and the apocalypse. 10. Wolf Children (2012) A young mother tries to raise her two half-wolf kids in the wake of her husband's murder. A tale of romance, parenting, and adolescence. It's a moving love letter to solo parenting and growing up. 11. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners (2022) Set against the neon underbelly of Cyberpunk 2077, this tale chronicles a young boy's ascent — and his catastrophic demise. Love, ambition, sacrifice, the darker side of ambition—all wrapped up in a tragedy—this one shines like neon lights. 12. Barefoot Gen (1983) A moving, creative, animated-collage documentary about the Hiroshima attack's impact, particularly on children. There's no sugarcoating the horror of nuclear war, and this movie cuts straight to those elements. 13. Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995) A dense, complicated, emotionally charged mecha series that pushes past the trauma, loneliness, and existential dread common to the genre. It's not really about the huge fighting robots, but rather, it's about damaged people learning to mend. 14. Monster (2004) A psychological thriller quickly evolves into an emotional rollercoaster about guilt, morality and redemption. It is heavy as hell, sinister as all hell and even makes you wonder what it means to be evil. 15. Frieren: Beyond Journey's End (2023) A reality-based fantasy of what occurs after the epic heroic quest has concluded—exalted immortality, the tragedy of the human race, intimations of mortality and the inner life. It's all about the heart-wrenching loneliness that comes when you've outlived everyone you ever loved. 16. Digimon Adventure: Last Evolution Kizuna (2020) A love letter and parting wishes to all the Digimon children who had to grow up and learn to deal with the risks and responsibilities of adulthood. It's like death of your childhood 17. Clannad (2007) The narrative leading up After Story—this is where the emotional groundwork is laid. Even the joyous occasions are undercut by a profound sadness. 18. Violet Evergarden (2018) A disabled war veteran begins to experience and articulate human emotion for the first time by writing letters on behalf of other people. It's an emotional journey about healing from grief, paired with stunning animation and music. 19. Your Name (2016) What starts as a body-swap romance quickly becomes a race against time and destiny. It's a nostalgic, yearning, timeless ode to connection and love. 20. The Rose of Versailles (1979) Emotional, sweeping historical drama Before the disastrous French Revolution—love, duty, and earth-shattering decisions come to a head. It combines sweeping historical epic with tragic love story. Why these anime hurt so good Sad anime isn't simply about making you cry—it's about evoking authentic emotions. These tales are memoirs to all we've experienced and everyone we've lost, the love we've felt, and the power we bear through anguish. So whether you're looking for a good tearjerker or simply a story that packs some emotional punch, these anime will entertain and inspire and perhaps help you to mend a broken heart. So get your tissues ready and press play. Consider yourself duly warned. 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 .
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
POM Anime Strikes Multi-Territory Deals For Quartet Of Titles Including ‘Lupin the IIIrd The Movie' & ‘DAN DA DAN: Evil Eye'
POM Anime, the anime label of Amsterdam distributor Piece of Magic Animation, has added DAN DA DAN: Evil Eye, Akira, Grave of the Fireflies and Lupin The Iiird The Movie: The Immortal Bloodline to its 2025 slate. Lupin The IIIrd the movie: The Immortal Bloodline is the latest addition to Takeshi Koike's Lupin the IIIrd Universe, about the grandson of gentleman thief Arsène Lupin, and the first 2D Lupin feature in the franchise since Dead or Alive in 1996. More from Deadline Studio Ghibli's 'Grave of the Fireflies' Sets Netflix Release Date Nelufar Hedayat's Doc Series 'Generation C' Picked Up By Espresso Media International Ahead Of Sunny Side Philipp Käßbohrer Accepts Deadline's German TV Disruptor Award: "You Cannot Be A Disruptor Alone, You Have To Find Other People And Take Fear Away From Them" POM Anime is planning a Q4 release for the film in multiple territories, including Benelux, Poland, Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia, Kosovo, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania. The acquisition follows POM's successful 2024 partnership with rightsholder TMS Entertainment on the release of Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro across Europe. DAN DA DAN: Evil Eye is the second cinematic series inspired by the hit manga by Yukinobu Tatsu, after DAN DA DAN: First Encounter which enjoyed success in cinemas in 2024. Continuing its partnership with rights-holder ADN, POM Anime will theatrically release the sequel on June 7 and 8 across 12 territories, with Germany and Austria to follow on June 10. Audiences will be treated to the first three episodes of Season 2, plus exclusive 10-minute bonus content that will only be available in Akira, POM Anime has also expanded its partnership with Kodansha on the 4K restoration of the 1988 cyberpunk cult classic. Building on the success of its 4K re-release of Akira in 2023 across 12 countries, POM Anime has secured theatrical rights in eight new territories, expanding into the Nordics and Baltics. It is gearing up to release the restored 4K feature on July 16, across Poland, Romania, Croatia, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Greece, Cyprus, Hungary, Albania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. This will be the first ever theatrical release in some of these markets. The release date also holds particular significance for fans; known as Akira Day, it commemorates the day in 1988 when events in the story are said to have destroyed Tokyo and sparked World War III In a further re-release, POM Anime will launch Studio Ghibli's 1998 animated war film Grave of the Fireflies in 15 territories – including Benelux, Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia, Slovenia, Kosovo, Macedonia – over the summer. The deal was brokered with Toho. Best of Deadline 2025 TV Series Renewals: Photo Gallery 'Stick' Soundtrack: All The Songs You'll Hear In The Apple TV+ Golf Series 'Nine Perfect Strangers' Season 2 Release Schedule: When Do New Episodes Come Out?
