Studio Ghibli has always been known for their pioneering animated features, and this extraordinary film, "Grave of the Fireflies", is certainly no exception. However, this movie stood out to me as not only one of the greatest works of the animation genre but as one of the greatest films ever made.
"Grave of the Fireflies", set during World War II, follows siblings Seita and Setsuko, who are forced to flee their home when it is bombed by enemy planes. In this story, the mature older brother Seita struggles to provide for himself and his younger sister, and does everything he can to create a safe and happy environment for Setsuko to live in and grow up in, despite the war-torn conditions of the land.
This film is not afraid to show the devastating tragedies and aftermath of war, and it shows how much it affects families. But in that tragedy, we also see uplifting hope, undying love and outstanding courage. We see the light in the dark. The fireflies in the night.
"Grave of the Fireflies" captures both the beauty of life and the devastating power of war with its rich, powerfully moving and emotional story and its stunning, beautiful hand-drawn animation. It's truly unforgettable and it demands to be seen. Don't overlook this masterpiece!
Rating: 5/5
