Anime is a form of film that, in my opinion, is so underrated and misunderstood. While many make the mistake of assuming it is made for children (because it is animated) the truth about anime is that it is a medium used to do what either actual film cannot achieve, or would cost a lot of money to achieve. Further, it is truly an art form as many anime films are still hand drawn. The beauty capable of absorbing from these works is endless.
While some take the form of epic tales with unbelievably grand scale, this one is taken down to an almost childlike simplicity. While it is a fantasy, it is a more approachable one, to which anyone can instantly relate. It’s so easy to watch that it is in my mind, the kind of film I’d like to rewatch again and again.
Something that was particularly impressive was the anchoring down in reality that occurred with just the simple soundtrack. The sounds of the summer cicadas while the characters walk or bike outside is mesmerizing and makes you forget you’re watching an animated film in the first place.
For an easy yet impactful introduction into anime I recommend The Girl Who Leapt Through Time
Image via The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, directed by Mamoru Hosoda