Hey everyone! I wanted to share one of my favorite animated films, Ryuu to Sobakasu no Hime or mostly known as Belle (2021), and explain why I believe it's a must-watch that will surely leave an impact on you!
Mamoru Hosoda’s Belle is a stunning animated film that merges a breathtaking virtual world, captivating music, and a heartfelt story about self-discovery and connection with others. Both the Japanese and English versions are excellent, so you can enjoy it regardless of which one you choose!
The movie follows Suzu, a shy and awkward high school girl who feels adrift after losing her mother. In reality, she’s very quiet, but in "U," a virtual realm where people create their own avatars, Suzu transforms into Belle, a confident and immensely popular singer. Things take an exciting turn when she encounters the "Beast," a frightening and enigmatic figure in "U." Suzu resolves to uncover the Beast's true identity and assist him, but in the process, she learns a great deal about herself and grows braver in her real life.
The visuals in Belle are extraordinary! The world of "U" is vibrant, imaginative, and dreamlike. The music is equally impressive, songs like "Gales of Song" and "A Million Miles Away" will send shivers down your spine.
The story carries significant meaning. It explores themes such as authenticity, coping with loss, and the importance of caring for others. Both the Japanese and English versions effectively convey these emotions, allowing you to choose whichever one resonates with you.
The film does have some slower moments, particularly when it transitions between Suzu’s real life and the virtual world. A few storylines, such as her friendships, could have been elaborated on further. While the Beast’s narrative is incredibly engaging, the conclusion feels somewhat rushed compared to the buildup it receives.
This movie really made me reflect on how people behave differently online compared to real life. It reminded me of the importance of being true to yourself and having courage, even when it feels daunting. Many viewers expressed feeling inspired by Suzu’s journey and her quest to find her voice, and I completely agree.
The world of "U" was my favorite aspect. It’s incredibly creative and captivating, with every detail—from the characters' appearances to the music—making it feel like a real place you’d want to explore.
The standout scene is when Suzu sings "A Million Miles Away" near the end. In that moment, she’s no longer hiding behind Belle, she’s simply being herself, and it’s profoundly powerful and emotional. Whether you watch it in Japanese or English, this moment will resonate with you.
In the Japanese version, Kaho Nakamura is fantastic as Suzu/Belle. Her voice and singing convey everything Suzu is experiencing. In the English version, Kylie McNeill delivers an equally impressive performance. Her singing is beautiful, and she makes Suzu’s emotions truly relatable.
Belle is a modern interpretation of the classic Beauty and the Beast tale, but it encompasses much more. It explores how people can connect online, how to navigate difficult emotions like grief, and the significance of being yourself. These themes resonate with everyone, especially teens who spend considerable time online.
Belle is an extraordinary film for anyone who appreciates stunning animation, emotional music, and meaningful narratives. Both the Japanese and English versions are worth watching. It may be a bit slow at times, but the gorgeous visuals, powerful songs, and heartfelt story make it utterly unforgettable. If you’re seeking a movie that will inspire you, Belle is the one!
Image Sources
IMDb. (n.d.). Various promotional images of Belle (2021) [Photographs]. Retrieved from https://www.imdb.com/title/tt13651628/
Thank you for reading this simple blog of mine. I truly appreciate the community. Hoping for the future of Web3 applications that support the ideas of the people.
ALEXIS
Welcome to my blog. I'm just a simple staff in the service industry, currently doing the things that my inner child wants in life. Mostly self-taught in the things that gave me the purpose to learn more about the digital world that led me to this awesome community.
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