Reviews of films and movies.
It’s been a few years since I first watched Studio Ghibli’s Arietty (借りぐらしのアリエッティ/The Secret World of Arietty) directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi. I remember enjoying the familiar story presented in a different, but familiar way. That is, Japanese animation. And watching it for the first time since then, I find myself appreciating it even more.
When Marnie Was There (思い出のマーニー) is a moving film about understanding your own identity and the power of love and family. Presented with the stunning animation one comes to expect from Studio Ghibli, the film lends itself to being open to one’s interpretation and understanding while also on its face being a fully realized mystical journey.
Studio Ghibli’s 2002 film The Cat Returns (猫の恩返し) is a hilarious, quirky and whimsical adventure that stands on its own while also being an extra treat for anyone who has enjoyed the 1995 film Whisper of the Heart.
Isao Takahata creates a timeless masterpiece with The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (かぐや姫の物語). It is a stunning adaptation of one of Japan’s oldest folk tales (The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter) and it is lovingly brought to life in a memorable and profound cinematic experience.
Studio Ghibli co-founder Isao Takahata has delivered some stunning stories over the years. But My Neighbors the Yamadas (ホーホケキョとなりの山田くん) is a beautiful, heartfelt film that includes the hallmarks and sensibilities he would show in his other works while presenting a unique and experimental visual style that makes it even more special.
Hayao Miyazaki’s 2008 film Ponyo (崖の上のポニョ) doesn’t reach the heights of some of his more acclaimed work. But the film nonetheless enthralls like a film from Miyazaki could with its stunning visuals, likeable characters and irresistible magic.
Perhaps overshadowed by other films in Hayao Miyazaki’s filmography, Porco Rosso (紅の豚) is no less than another magical, high-flying adventure that exemplifies the veteran filmmaker’s talent.
Kamen Rider Zi-O NEXT TIME: Geiz, Majesty ((仮面ライダージオウNEXT TIME：ゲイツ、マジェスティ) is a thoroughly above-average V-Cinema entry that takes on an interesting and relatable discussion while successfully serving up more fun anniversary treats.
Kamen Rider Heisei Generations FOREVER (仮面ライダー平成ジェネレーションズFOREVER) is a thrilling send-off and loving tribute to the Heisei Era of the Kamen Rider franchise.
Kamen Rider: Reiwa The First Generation (仮面ライダー 令和 ザ・ファースト・ジェネレーション) is a stunningly thrilling and surprisingly emotional passing of the torch. Bidding another quick final farewell to the Heisei Era of Kamen Rider (with a quick shoutout to the Showa Era too), the film is really the loud, explosive and official arrival announcement of the Reiwa Era to the long-running franchise.