From Up On Poppy Hill Review
Following in the footsteps of Hayao Miyakazi, his son Goro has created a beautiful piece of Japanese cinema, a touching love story set against post war 1960's Japan.
From Up On Poppy Hill is Studio Ghibli's latest feature, following on from last years Aritetty. The film once again proves that Studio Ghibli are devoted to creating emotionally stirring, character driven films, regardless of the fact they are cartoons. The film itself is about a girl called Umi, a girl who's father has disappeared in the war and who's mother has made a long trip to America. Because of this Umi has an entire house to run, as well as going to school and getting an education. The main story thread is to do with Umi's relationship with a boy she meets at school called Shun, and there are a fair few plot twists along the way that ensure this film isn't just a typical romance affair. The sub plot of the film follows a group of students from the school including Umi and Shun, as they attempt to stop their clubhouse from being destroyed in preparation for the Tokyo Olympics of 1964. The plot is both a culturally relevant romance mixed with a historic subtext that provides an interesting mix. The two main characters have an incredible chemistry, and as the film happily skips along the two form an emotional bond that is wonderfully touching. As with most Ghibli films that aren't fantasy epics (Spirited Away etc) the film is short and sweet, not overstaying its welcome yet at the same time providing just enough material for a full length feature, its a film that is very easy to watch. This is mostly down to the excellent voice work (I watched the English version) which manages to translate the plot from its Japanese origins perfectly into English, as with all Ghibli dubs, it shines.
Visually the film is a beauty. The unmistakable Studio Ghibli watercolour style is again prominent, making the film seem like a moving painting. The attention to detail in this film astounds, with the light bubbling of a fish being fried or the slow rustling of the trees in the wind giving the impression that this is a living, breathing world, and that in turn immerses the viewer fully into the historic setting. The musical score is also perfect, utilising subtle piano melodies and breathy Japanese vocals to add to the calm and gentle mood set by the visuals, making the entire film come together beautifully in a harmony of visuals, likable characters and subtle yet moving music.
I can wholeheartedly recommend this romance drama to anyone, its a genuine crowd pleaser as long as you can appreciate mature animation. As for kids, the film could potentially win over the young teens, but I don't think anyone under the age of 10 would appreciate the film, it's slow paced and isn't filled with action or exciting scenes. Studio Ghibli fans should find a lot to love in From Up on Poppy Hill, even those who prefer the more fantasy style epic's that the studio is most well known for. A beautifully told story that excels in all aspects.
9/10
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