One of the most poignant tales of war committed to celluloid. Instead of focussing on the soldiers, it tells the tale of brother and sister Seita and Setsuko who are left orphaned and homeless after an air raid burns their village to the ground. They go to stay at their aunt's house nearby and don't really get along. Seita takes off with his sister and they go and live independently in an abandoned bomb shelter. At first life seems idyllic, but having to provide and care for a child is not something Seita is able to do in times of rationing and hardship. Harsh reality soon sets in.
Opening with Seita's death in a city subway is quite alarming, but you are now told the tale of how he got here and know that you aren't in for an easy ride.
It is a harrowing story, but it does have the ethereal wonder of a child's viewpoint and has moments of joy in play. These happy moments and the beautiful bond the brother and sister have make the denouement all the more tragic.
A touching story, beautifully drawn. Not just a great anime, this is one of the great films about war.
The moments of sheer joy and intense sorrow are beautifully encapsulated.
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