What's up otaku(s)~!?
Let's talk about another Ghibli animated film!
A few nights ago, I was browsing some animated films on Netflix and I stumbled upon "From Up On Poppy Hill". Well, it has always been on mind to watch this film but I get so lazy and ended up not doing so. However, I finally gave it a shot. And guess what? I didn't regret it at all~!!!
From Up on Poppy Hill revolves around the life of Matsuzaki Umi and Kazama Shun. They're both high school students whose school is having some kind of crisis.
Due to the upcoming Olympics 1964, their school wanted to demolish their old clubhouse in order to build a modern building. Because of this, students belonging to various clubs protested against it.
Our main character Umi, found herself helping the newspaper club in which Shun belongs to. They befriended each other and somehow a romantic spark started between them. However, this situation was tested because of Shun's past.
IMAGE SOURCE
I personally like the story because it didn't only focus on the two main characters. It was about family, love and dream. It portrayed how someone can be so passionate about something and be ready to do whatever it takes to protect something they are enthusiastic about.
The little twist in the middle of the story also made it more interesting than it already is. Well, it might not be everyone's cup of tea, but I like the slow-pace storytelling that unfolded in this animated film.
Melodramatic? Yes, kind of... but it surely will make viewers realize a lot of things. It's somehow an eye-opener and a good motivation. :)
I am in love with these two characters. Umi is such a responsible lady. She's so kind hearted, caring, loving... she's every positive adjectives you could ever think of. I mean, she's such a sweetheart!
On the other hand, our dear Shun is kind of a rebel. He's popular both with the guys and girls in their school. He's funny and a bit wild, but he's responsible and an amazing leader.
I truly love how their personalities clashed. Well, it's not only these two...
IMAGE SOURCE
Shout out to Shirou (the one with glasses) and all the other students!
IMAGE SOURCE
Of course, as expected of Ghibli, the art style and animation are exemplary. Not only the character design but also the scenery are amazingly made. Unlike other Ghibli films that bring us to another fantasy realm, this one is in a realistic setting. And I like how it really tried to recreate Japan in those years.
There's no future for people who worship the future, and forget the past.
This is true, indeed. I think it's also very applicable in the current generation. Of course, admiring the future and what it holds is a good thing, but we should never forget our past... especially the past which brought us to our now, and will probably carry us to our future.
All in all, this animated film is worth watching. It might not be my personal fave, but I sure had a wonderful time watching it.
Thanks for checking this post out. Have a great one! (^^,)/