The Tale of the Princess Kaguya - Movie Review

[@lilacosmanthus]

the ending of this film shredded me into little pieces

[@lilacosmanthus]

***** Sadly, people use their children to get wants and needs all the time. It's a fact of life.

[@GustavoRodriguez-qr5po]

+Indigo Osmanthus was it as sad as grave of the fire flies?

[@lilacosmanthus]

Gustavo Rodriguez I would say it's worse. Grave of the Fireflies was one of those "I am sad. I'm a tragedy. Cry at me," kinda movies. This film left you with a big boulder in your stomach because everything was so subtle and then just hits you really hard.

[@GustavoRodriguez-qr5po]

Oh I see okay thanks. And I was wondering if you knew if they sold any Japanese Copies in America, or where I could find them in Japanese.

[@bacongamer889]

same

[@mypuppy4U]

Hope you guys understand that the film is based on an ancient Japanese folklore, told to families of all ages. Studio Ghibli has been well-known for being highly respected as an animation studio. I just saw this film, and I still felt the emotions the story left with. Do not let the watercolors fool you.

[@ZeppelinBigFan]

Watching this I kind of figured that it had to be a traditional Japanese fairytale. I'm going to have to look it up now, the movie was absolutely brilliant!

[@fanzeldadaniel]

I'm definitely in love with Japanese folklore :D

[@carljthatsme94]

The sad fact is the art style will throw people off, people are too scared to try something new, they think seeing an animated film at all is experimenting. For those on the fence, this film is stunning far more stunning than Pixar's work as every frame is hand drawn, it has a place and has been thought out. The story is incredibly engaging.

[@mypuppy4U]

carljthatsme94, I think the purpose of its art form (watercolors, simplicity, sketchy lines) brings the Japanese childhood of learning this story? I have seen a drama where this Shinto miko taught her younger students to paint each drawings with watercolors so that they can present the story of Princess Kaguya. I'm not from Japan, though, so this is just my theory. If I am correct, I can honestly say, to those who are still on edge about the art style, it's a much more advanced and mature animation than any Japanese anime series AND American cartoon series you have seen today. Now that carljthatsme94 mentioned it, I do wish this movie won an Oscar rather than Big Hero 6.... as much as I like that movie too. T.T Can't argue with "realistic animation", am I right?

[@carljthatsme94]

I think the broken up art style perfectly reflects the mess of growing up as well as having an ancient art style in the vein of Hokusai

[@OrangeVision]

Honestly, even as an enormous Miyazaki fan, in my opinion Takahata's trumped Miyazaki's. I still can't believe some of the scenes I saw. Kaguya running from the mansion had amazing sense of speed and desperation, all in motion of animation.

[@edienandy]

OrangeVision I think you’re right. Miyazaki’s films are beautiful masterpieces but none of them have moved me so emotionally as Takahata’s. This film, Grave of the Fireflies, and Pom Poko have all moved me to tears which none of Miyazaki’s films have ever done.

[@swarnadutta1892]

what about Mononoke hime?

[@OrangeVision]

@@swarnadutta1892 I think I accidentally dropped a couple of words from my message back in the day (as you can see possessives without an object), I was trying to say Takahata's Kaguya was way more interesting movie than Miyazaki's newest film from the same year (Wind Rises). Princess Mononoke is definitely one of my favorite movies of all time.

[@swarnadutta1892]

thank you for your response. I feel forever grateful to Takahata for making me feel myriads of emotions through Kaguya hime no monogatari. It proves the power of art.

[@lazarperic4525]

@@swarnadutta1892 He made me feel like she's the real person - when she was happy, I was happy and when she was sad, I was sad too... I NEVER felt that way about any movie/animated movie in my whole fucking life. Can't even explain how much I cried because of that whole last scene when they came down to take her and when she turned around and cried. In a damn second I realised that she's punished to feel the same way that the older woman felt (her emotions (sadness) were the reason why she came down on Earth)...

[@TwoFacedEar]

(Kind of spoilers ahead, tried to vague it up a bit) I can see that the ending can be a bit unfulfilling and manipulative, and how some people can have some gripes with the movie as a whole. I thought the movie was a masterpiece, and I'll explain why. Right after I watched it, I was almost in tears like "Oh god, please don't make it end like this.... dammit." It made me angry, too, but after thinking about it for a few hours, going back and watching it again, I understood what Takahata meant. The song the kids and Lil Bamboo (and again later as Kaguya) sing made it clear. Life is unfair and unforgiving and laden with good intentions with poor outcomes, and all things must end. "Flower, bear fruit, and die. Be born, grow up, and die. Still the wind blows, the rain falls, the waterwheel goes round, lifetimes come and go in turn." When Kaguya calls out to end it all (Emperor scene), she sees her "end" coming (something none of us can see, but if we did, we'd react the same way), she remembers what really matters to her, and her parents regret all they've forced her to do. Instead of succumbing to the inevitable, she spends her remaining time attempting to catch up on everything she's missed out on, regardless of what others may think of her. Even up to the end, she's begging and pleading and crying for more time, because she's finally righted herself, and learned what it means to live, after she had just cried to end it all a few days previous. "Birds, bugs, beasts, grass, trees, flowers, teach me how to feel, if I hear that you pine for me, I will return to you," helps close it out. People/customs can sometimes inhibit feelings in general ('noble women do not laugh or cry', father not knowing what makes his daughter happy). Nature has a different connection with us in a way humans cannot possibly fulfill. Nature doesn't teach how to be happy, but how to feel. Combined with all the themes of the film, and the climax, it expresses that feelings are life. To feel is to laugh, to cry, to feel pain, to love, to live. Then the ending made me sad again, and angry, and it was great. It was overly emotional on purpose. To get these feelings from this film is exactly what Takahata wanted. To watch this film is to laugh, cry, feel pain, and love. To watch this film is to live. And finally, I also realized that Kaguya isn't gone for good, just for now. She is like the mountain, who appears to be dead and broken, but will return to life in time, as will all people (not like zombies, but metaphorically). It is revealed who she truly is about 15 minutes before the ending (while not directly saying it). She has returned once before. "If I hear that you pine for me, I will return to you." That's my two cents.

[@b3lurxxxm3duza]

this movie made me cry like a mother fucker,i'm glad i'm not the only one with strong emotions at the ending.

[@GnasherBurst]

You're right, Kaguya will return to life. She does so in Naruto, and it's awesome.

[@sksks5991]

2 years late, but this is probably the best review of this movie I've ever seen. Thank you for this (':

[@asmallbabby4205]

Thank you for that closing conjecture. That makes me feel a little better about the ending - which I love btw, I think it's brilliant. But, you know, it also killed me.

[@djalyx_]

Damn, i saw the movie and was so confused and mad at the ending, but this makes me want to watch again

[@OfficialPeterFisher]

I honestly was crying for about 5 minutes straight when this film ended. It was a masterpiece and really moved me.

[@cineflo5469]

moi aussi j'étais en larmes a la fin kaguya et un chef d'oeuvre

[@e.dolphin5055]

Same It's so sad (༎ຶ ෴ ༎ຶ)

[@eclipsesonic]

I just watched it and I agree with you Chris. It's one of Ghibli's best and it's honestly one of my new favourite films of all time. I almost cried at the ending! 10/10 from me.

[@princejmye]

***** LOL IKR Sleep attack

[@princejmye]

i usually hate watching movies/anime with friends or family they kinder ruined the movie for me. The ending was alright in my opinion.

[@helmiazizm]

+The Great Wise Observer it's actually a poetic representation of death, not spiritual power brainwash shit. The ending was a masterpiece imo. It's supposed to be sad but Hisaishi plays a happy music instead, which is a good representation of what happened when you're going to die. It's horrific, yet really peaceful. And you care so much about Kaguya because of the joy and sadness that was happened in her life, which makes the Procession of Celestial Beings in the end become more sad

[@rufiredup90]

+The Great Wise Observer The director actually said it was supposed to represent the tale of a girl who grows up and has to die at a young age. The ending isn't to be taken seriously. Most films of Studio Ghibli's are always somewhat metaphorical. This movie in particular LOVED that. For instance, Kaguya growing at such a rapid pace was to represent what parents always say about their children; "Oh, they grow up so fast!" And her dad calling her a princess and wanting her to become an actual princess, deeming her childhood friends unfit for his precious daughter and encouraging her suitors who are all princes to win her hand is a symbolism of how all fathers think that their daughter is a princess and how they want the very best for their daughter. Just read up the tv tropes for this film and you'll understand more of what this film is trying to say. Loved this movie so much btw. Had a great time watching it. So beautifully made!

[@morgenwilliams8447]

This is just my belief, but you know right at the end where there was an image of a baby on the moon, I think that represents her reincarnation. Because Buddhas believe in reincarnation so I believe that princess Kaguya came back but as a baby again, I don't believe that she was truly gone forever at the end. Plus she teared up whilst taking that last glance at her mum and dad at the end even after they put the brainwashing cloak on her. That means she must have some sort of power to be able to overcome the cloak.

[@zzzz-wq2ht]

I cried two times at the ending of this movie for so long, then I got tired but I cried once again when I ate with my family and stopped, then just before sleeping I cried for 2 times and 3 times secretly in the bathroom. This movie seriously broke me. I've never felt so depressed for any movie then I was for this one. The movie was so beautifully and heartbreakingly written that I took so long to get over it. The fact that princess Kaguya had so much 'what if' moments and the fact that kaguya never got any ending she deserved...god it just keeps breaking my heart T-T. This is such a masterpiece and my heart can't watch another hour of heartbreak. This is not a movie that needs to be watched over and over again, it is literally a story that is engraved in your heart in just one sitting...

[@emmawhitelaw-mm4mr]

I have literally just watched this movie and feel numb. The raw beauty of the animation and tale has left me to contemplate life like no other Ghibli movie has done before. Having said this I feel sadder than after watching Grave of the Fireflies. The suppression Kaguya went through brought me to tears. She was unhappy to the point of thinking about suicide, she was to be wed to a man she didn't know, she never managed to be with the one she loved and worst be it that it was her father that was the one forcing her to live an awful life. Despite this, despite the frankly terrible parents and horrible life Kaguya still wanted to stay on Earth she wanted to feel something even if it were fear and grief and anger for the rest of her life. It was a emotional ending and although Kaguya was the one taken away, I felt the most for her mother and father; they had built their life around a daughter who wasn't even their blood and even though she was unhappy they had tried and would forever have the memory of the child they had lost.

[@subzero6796]

Just saw this for the first time on the big screen. I think the message Takahata was trying to send was to remind us to truly live in every moment we are given. To enjoy the good days and laugh our way through the bad ones. Because sadly, we often don't treasure what we have and what we can have until it's too late. I like to think that in the end, when our time comes to put on the robe of the moon, there will just be some things in this life that we've learned and felt that nothing on Earth or in Heaven will ever be able to erase from our souls, so long as we remember to engrave them deep enough within ourselves. Just like it was for the lady on the moon and for Kaguya.

[@Siroreogalore]

Mr. Takahata now joins those artists whose works live beyond their own lifespan. Rest in peace, thank you for helping bring Japanese culture to us in one of the best storytelling mediums today (:

[@pramodnarwade9151]

I felt so connected to this movie, growing up in India my great grandma and my grandma used to tell stories similar to this one. I feel India has lost that thing now

[@a.t.c.3862]

🙏 You tell those stories to your nephews and nieces, your own children and grandchildren.

[@anniedusus4732]

I think there's one more allegory on this film. When Kaguya's father takes her from the blossomed bamboo (as a seed) he says to his wife that he is blessed by the heavens. She responds that she is the one who will raise her and when she takes the little princess in her hands that's when she turns into a baby. Two people where blessed to bring in life a baby, a human. Life passes and Kaguya at the end goes "back to the moon". At the end there's another version of the song and we can hear in its lyrics "Flower, bear fruit, and die. Be born, grow up, and die. Still the wind blows, the rain falls, the waterwheel goes round, lifetimes come and go in turn." which means to me that she actually did die. She will come back again just like the spring will come back to the forest. Buddhists believe in reincarnation, but for now she is dead. There are so many metaphors in this film, about feelings and life.She didn't want to be owned by anyone, she wished to be free to live her life without any rules and commitments. That's what I call a pure spirit, a real down to earth person. Maybe this is why couldn't help my self on crying while I watched it, it is a masterpiece!

[@milesfurther4395]

I thought going to the moon sort of symbolized Buddhist enlightenment or nirvana and Kaguya rejects it, because she thinks attachment is worth the suffering it causes.

[@nannybells]

I watched this movie twice and I cried so hard both times, like I almost screamed.. I just adore it so much, I think it's stunning and sad.

[@cameuille]

I saw this movie last weekend i was completly crying at the end of the movie. It's sooo moving and you feel the pain and the unhappiness of Kaguya. Wow. And even if it's an anime and i saw it since a long time i can't listen the soundtrack without crying. This movie is WONDERFUL like the graves of the fireflies.

[@Gehab]

Just saw this movie! Such a great film! :D

[@JustMikuMiku]

I love how the start of the film starts so normal even when they found Princess and even though at the start it was not action packed but somehow it didnt made me bored it actually made me calm and at ease and when the end came I cried a bit (or maybe alot) which not alot of movies did to me And the ANIMATION boi It had a certain charm into it that makes it so good Overall this is probably one of the best animated movies I watched

[@JokerReviewsD]

Studio Ghibli IS the best animation studio ;)

[@eclipsesonic]

Couldn't agree more!

[@mrpopo523]

Nope Ufotable is

[@JoshLeitzel]

+Mr Popo Fuck outta here with that shit.

[@zachsutton9866]

No doubt

[@rubub8455]

@@geraldeguzman and he's just saying his opinion, what's your point (even if their opinion is bad)

[@boudoirette]

Anime is such a fun genre cause a lot of films and series are primarily targeted to adults. There are so many aspects of art and storytelling that can only be translated through animation. Studio Ghibli are one of the few studios that cater to both young and old with diverse genres and characters. Thanks for the review, Chris! Excellent and thorough as always!

[@elenagoodwin8435]

I watched this and was really shocked at how the movie played out , I thought she would go back to to boy and realise they love each other and live happily ever after .

[@sksks5991]

That is typical Disney shit xD

[@wyster14]

This and Pom Poko are probably my favorite Ghibli movies. I may feel more nostalgic for Spirited Away, but these movies make me feel so much more. Pom Poko made me cheer for the tanuki as they tried to save their home, and made me feel just as helpless when they lost. Takahata really was a fantastic writer

[@stebung]

This is one of those movies that will leave you thinking for a long time after you finished it, because it's a movie about life itself, and people of different age group will comprehend this movie very differently based on their experience.

[@Indeeee]

This movie will be a timeless classic in the future.

[@aryulo]

This animation contains elements of Taosim and Buddhism and yet they are easy to understand (Śākyamuni appeared as a character and Princess asking for the acceptance of the nature). You may think it is an animation for kids but in fact it is about life and death. It is not like any other western movies which things are made a little bit dramatic. As an Asian, I find the film very comfortable as it echoes with my Eastern culture - subtle and nature-worshiping.

[@mszkamio]

Thank you for this wonderful review. The movie hit home so much for me as someone in their 20s with all the pressure from family and society. I've become better in not getting as affected but sometimes it's a pure struggle. Especially if you suffer with a depression and anxiety disorder, and if you're a young woman. Oh damn, oh damn. I could feel both the compulsion to stay and go away, forgetting it all. The amount of crying was unreal.

[@Indicat710]

This is the saddess shit ive ever watched.. I coulden't stop crying

[@r0N1n_SD]

Grave of the fireflies does that to me

[@kevincheng81]

I supported this for 2015's Oscar animation trophy. I didn't really expect it to win though. It had one of the most heartfelt, heartbreaking and amazing ending sequence ever!

[@Oktaviii]

It's an amazing movie. I'm so glad that somebody still makes movies like that these days. The story is and truly feels like an old Japanese tale. And I absolutely love stuff like that. These old tales usually so funny, romantic, so deep and so sad in the same time. I really was able to relate to the main character. So many times we do stuff that we don't like, we get caught in this lifestyle that is just not for us, but at the same time we're not always able to change or escape it. We start doing things that others expect us to do and eventually become very unhappy. But this is very wrong way of life. It's just useless self-sacrifice. I'm so glad that there are still people like this director who can remind us about it. Remind us that life should be happy and enjoyable. And although we need to listen people we love we also need to listen our heart.

[@stephanieenciso]

This movie is absolutely beautiful, I cannot capture in words how much I love this movie. Great review!

[@nny2055]

She is a resident of the moon and came to Earth as an exile for the sins she committed. That's why as a story she can never be happy. However, the film makes us feel more emotions and the absurdity of society than the setting.

[@iluvatarchem]

Why on earth would anyone watch this dubbed? It's mind blowing to anyone outside of US and UK. Watching 10th century Japanese people talking English. I mean just WTF

[@JohnnyJohn12503]

+Nikos A The dub was actually very good. I loved Chloe Grace Moretz she definitely fit the part.

[@iluvatarchem]

jbanol That's what you assume.. The fact that you are used to dubbed movies doesn't change the fact that I find it extremely strange.. Also you can't actually say that i am an elitist just because I don't like hearing Japanese people speaking English..I am not the one with the strange tastes here:P The logical thing is to watch a movie while having the original native performances.. You can't call out people just because you are used to the completely odd alternative because you just can't read fast enough:P Dubbed versions are strange. They are off sinc, off putting and ruin the actual performances (especially on live movies). The fact that you like them does not mean they are good neither does it mean that anyone who doesn't like them is an elitistic prick..

[@JohnnyJohn12503]

Nikos A You sound extremely elitist and condescending not because you prefer the dub but because you look down on everyone who doesnt. Referring to people who watched the dub as "strange" and "incapable of reading fast" is just rude.

[@iluvatarchem]

Johnny Why would I ever look down on anyone that can't read fast enough? He just can't, so he chooses to call those who can "elitists". I think you really need to read both sides of the argument and you'll realize that both of us sound like we are looking down on each other:P It's all in good spirit. there's no real "looking down" in a utube comment section. I don't know the guy:P. Don't get worked up over conversations on the internet:P As for the actual argument: There really isn't one... Movies should be watched in their native language. A dubbed version can never be as good. It makes no logical sense to suggest otherwise but it makes sense to prefer the dubbed one IF the subs distract you.. That is still your problem though.It doesn't mean subs are worse:P

[@JohnnyJohn12503]

+Nikos A The dubbed version was better than the subbed version. There is no argument. It is objectively better.

[@MrCelanorama]

The Tale of the Princess Kaguya for me is not only the best anime - movie existing - it´s one of the best films ever made.

[@DaSquareful]

My family was streaming the dubbed release and I just, I just couldn't. hearing Japanese formalities and social interactions in english just feels so mechanical to me, I'll definetley have to watch this in subtitles.

[@TheBlueGoldenHawk]

Why not A+? You didn't say anything bad about it

[@FrancoisDressler]

Grave of the Fireflies is astounding. Still don't know why you don't like Blade Runner Chris, it has influenced anime a lot.

[@wolfstar675]

When did he said he doesn't like Blade Runner?

[@eclipsesonic]

Enrique Godinez He said it on his Twitter account.

[@wolfstar675]

eclipsesonic Maybe he needs to give it a second chance i don't know. To me that film is so important in Sci-fi and cyber punk it's a landmark.

[@eclipsesonic]

He stated that he has seen every cut of the film, but he still doesn't like it. He said it was too uneven.

[@wolfstar675]

eclipsesonic What do you think of the film? Do you like it?

[@hindchan7587]

I watched this movie a couple of days agoand I am still not over how wonderful it is.. all I can say is that this movie is a masterpiece.. what I admire the most about Ghibli films is how every little detail plays a part in providing a sense of originality and uniqueness to the whole film.. everything about The Tale of Princess Kaguya is absolutely marvelous.. the plot, the soundtracks, the characters not to mention the magnificent art work.. I simply find this anime one of the BEST movies of all time..

[@DjangoFett33]

I have always been a huge suppprter of studio ghibli so I'm def planning on watching it now.

[@TevyaSmolka]

where do we watch it

[@DjangoFett33]

I usually download the movies.

[@TevyaSmolka]

Django Fett gotcha

[@sengiv7326]

Absolutely man. And Chris, Grave of the Fireflies is the "most heart wrenching, saddest, touching" movie I've ever seen, Period. So do my two lil brothers. I saw it when I was 14 in '94. I love Studio Ghibli (sp?), & that's one of the amines I toss out to people when I say alot of anime movies are like real movies...they just happened to be animated. That movie & "Perfect Blue" are two anime movies I mention when I tell people don't assume all are like DBZ & Pokemon. There are alot that can be up there with good American cinema. It really is.

[@DjangoFett33]

Seneca Givens Amen man! Grave of the Fireflies is seriously the saddest movie ever! =( If you dont cry while watching this movie, then ur seriously not human. Studio Ghibli is a class act and all they give out is classic, timeless and the most beautiful movies you will ever see. There will truly be a void in my heart when there all but gone.

[@SinthetikLED]

Very good movie, like your review. I think this movie had one of more powerful endings out of studio ghibli films. Much emotion

[@tnh723]

Seeing it for our Christmas family movie. Than you for your years of wonderful work dude. Merry Christmas!

[@marcusmariemoylan]

R. I. P. Isao Takahata

[@natural9107]

This might have been the best movie i have ever watched cant believe it was almost 9 years ago

[@dianexylene]

Kaguya hime no Monogatari> any anime movie. I stand by my stance.

[@joshuacampossandi5007]

Never been so scared from such a happy song 🙁😯😭😂

[@blipmachine]

Fuck that song.

[@carljthatsme94]

I disagree, this movie is an A+

[@JoseSanchez-dy7sg]

I just saw this movie in theaters It's truly a great movie Watch it if you can Blow away I haven't seen a more refreshing film in a long time Support the studio and these artists

[@garypotter5569]

THE overall most perfect Studio Ghibli film. There are only two that even contend for the #1 spot and one of them lost to "Boss Baby"???

[@Matticus1229]

The amount of arguments caused by a simple review of an anime movie is just outrageous XP. Keep up the good work Mr. Stuckmann!

[@Matticus1229]

I didn't mean the arguments, but the reviews. Love to watch them.

[@1nelinhu]

hey chris (: I found out your channel through this review on "The tale of princess kaguya" and ever since , you became one of my favorites movies reviewers ever. Here, in Brazil, the people doesn't give the studio ghibli movies the credit it deserves ( sometimes people make fun of me when I tell them I enjoy watching animes xD) which makes me really sad. I'm glad to see that there are people like you who is able to enjoy the japanese animation as well as the others stuff (: you're amazing, keep supporting studio ghibli and the animes.

[@cineflo5469]

Hi listen i wanted to tell you that there is no shame in loving an animated and Ghibli studio and my favorite studio I don't see why people laugh and I encourage you to discover all the Ghibli films and yes my favorite remains the tale of princess Kaguya which is a real masterpiece I love the Grave of the Fireflies I love Chihiro's journey I am really a big fan of this animated Japanese studio even if I like Disney too but honestly I find that Disney does a lot of things for the money but that's what I'm trying to tell you you should not listen to what others are saying you are free to like what you want courage friend

[@1nelinhu]

@@cineflo5469 Hi! Thank you for your comment ^^ I wrote that more than 4 years ago hahhaha dunno what I was thinking, 'cause I really don't give a damn to what others think hahaah I love all these animations that you outlined as well, grave of the fireflies used to be my favorite when I was younger, I always had a thing for gloomy movies. I enjoy disney as well, I think some of their animations are overpraised though, whereas ghibli end up being underestimated sometimes hahah

[@JuiceGamingChannel]

yeah I miss the days when disney movies were hand drawn, fuck this cgi bullshit

[@Matticus1229]

What do you believe is wrong with CGI? I'd like to see more hand drawn animation from Disney as well, but I can't complain about the 3-D movies they've made over the past 20 years or so.

[@bobo911410]

On the bright side, just saw Big Hero 6 and i thought it was amazing lol.

[@TheMetalGaia]

While I don't hate CGI, I must concede that I vastly preferred the hand-drawn style :P

[@wolfstar675]

Yes hand drawn animation is great but cgi animation is also great. Why hate it if good films have been done with CGI? Many great CGI animated films have been done in the past 20 years. CGI is just a tool and when done well is amazing. If you can't appreciate it you are definitely not a film buff. Hate it when done awful but when done right why hate it. Besides Video Games are cgi do you hate those?

[@JuiceGamingChannel]

I just think that they shape their heads funny, seems very lazy.

[@asimyadav1255]

This movie really made my heart sad. For me this anime film taught me to rejoice every moment of my life and also not spend my precious time doing nothing. I loved this anime film and I highly recommend others to watch it as well.

[@rendacos4361]

The root of all suffering is attachment -- buddha Princess Kaguya's face after wearing that pink cloak is priceless

[@Paulxl]

This movie made me cry like crazy. I totally agree with Chris. Awesome movie.

[@akirahojo2]

Takahata was Miyazaki’s senpai when they worked at Toei Animation Studio and he, legend has it, mentored Miyazaki to anchor his animated stories with meaningful and deep humanistic connection. We can see that as the relationship between the two maestros soured in latter years, Miyazaki’s films started to lose more and more of its emotional resonance despite their still amazing fantastical escapades.

[@rubyrose49]

I've never seen a movie as beautiful as this one.

[@clairmoon06]

3:00 IKR! I literally was like : u know u have an amazing skill when u can draw _sloppily_ like that but still looks exactly like someone's running, and not only that it looks like someone's running, u can also feel the emotions oozes out of her

[@aaadesktop]

Everyone please purchase this film, even if you saw it illegally. It's sad that many of us really have no choice but to watch it like this due to a severe lack of theaters even aware of these films. These movies are masterpieces. PLEASE show support!

[@CalynnAli]

I saw the north american premier of this at TIFF(introduced by Takahata), and I loved it. Something that stood out to me was the music, it was breathtaking. I also wasn't expediting to laugh as much as I did(for the first half at least). My main problem with the movie was the ending, that moon stuff just came out of no where. From a Japanese point of view it would make sense, but having no background knowledge of the folktale, I think I was in too much of a 'WTF' state to really appreciate it.

[@Twitch_Bear]

i just watched this movie, yesterday... and im still depressed thinking about it.

[@nouvx]

i just found and watch this movie... i hate (love) this movie T_______T because after the end of the story, my life become empty. i have a daughter. everytime i see her face when sleep, i'm crying... i don't want my daughter sad. i just want her happy.

[@BigBossMan538]

Studio Ghibli is like the only big animation studio keeping hand drawn animation alive. :)

[@LuluLolitta]

I literally cried at the end of this movie .. beautiful , magical ...

[@EricMontreal22]

Great review. I wish you had mentioned Takahata's Only Yesterday, which this reminds me of in terms of theme--he seems to be so unduly placed beneath Miyazaki's brilliance. (Granted I grew up on the dub of Takahata's Anne of Green Gables series, which helped get Miyazaki into the bizz.)

[@blackphillipppp]

imo this might be the best film ever made. Never cried so much in my life watching a film.

[@DecapitatedPlaythings]

Hey guys and gals out there in anime land. I've had a huge response both negative and positive regarding my first statement on anime. So many AWESOME people came through with opinions and a understanding with what I was trying to say to begin with. Well, I'm here to say that I've taken you guys up on your opinions and picked out 3 of the most requested for me to give a chance. And SURPRISE! You were spot on with your advice. I'm no longer going to look at Anime through a tunnel. With your help you opened my eyes to some very interesting art. Thanks for not giving up on me. LOL.. Stay cool.. peace...

[@Amonny]

My Ghibli favorite is Whisper of the Heart.

[@jewelrye7974]

Concrete roads!!

[@joojosxoxo]

This movie blew my mind. I think it's a must watch for any animation lover!

[@alexostlerart8349]

I LOVE your promotions. It's so great they come to you for all of their stuff and I for one hope you get more and more attention, as you do deserve it. Just like all these great movies you review deserve it

[@Graf27green]

The ending was pretty sad I felt sorry for Kaguya and her adoptive Mother but not for the father. He pretty much forced Kaguya to live as a princess. Her normal life was good she was happy but no the father thought she deserved more.

[@MarielAbella]

this is such a beautiful film. i absolutely love the art direction they went with this film, it mimics medieval Japanese art and is so in-depth with the rich history of old Japan. It's a great way to introduce international audiences to a realistic depiction of medieval Japan and the courtly love, beauty standards and social norms in those times. did i also mention the art is gorgeous. because it is. it really is.

[@Megatron-xs2qe]

I really REALLY hated the ending. what happened to Kaguya was so unfair. still a good movie thoe

[@sissyboytaaka]

the story is from an old folklore. changing it would suck.

[@Megatron-xs2qe]

sissyboytaaka Well obviously. But I still hate the ending

[@sissyboytaaka]

+Miguel Rivera Also i kinda agree with you. On the movie, she didnt knew the guy already settled down. but if you want to see an alternate ending, there is a movie called "princess of the moon", there she was abducted by a UfO or something. hehe

[@morgenwilliams8447]

what I want to know is you know when they put the cloak on she was brainwashed? after about 20 seconds she looked back at her mum and dad and started crying. How did she have the power to gain her memory back then?

[@morgenwilliams8447]

sissyboytaaka so what do you think really happened then? Do you think she was reincarnated? And saw earth again?

[@Amayram21]

It made me cry so hard this movie was incredible

[@sadenb]

It's a masterpiece. This is a philosophy of life of birth and death and rebirth . Imagery with the moon . This is an artistic masterpiece

[@amemin3598]

I've watched this movie a year ago and I wish I had searched for a,or rather your movie review before!!I felt so satisfied after listening to you because you hit the mark so well!!! I really brawled my eyes out after watching this movie and I couldn't get out of this emotional mess for days!!! After watching your review I feel the urge to watch this movie again...

[@geeryhandhika3057]

R.I.P. Isao Takahata.

[@eclipsesonic]

I cannot wait to see this. I've seen all the Studio Ghibli films released so far, but I will have to wait until next year to see Princess Kaguya here in the U.K. My personal favourite Ghibli film is Laputa: Castle in the Sky. I think that's a severely underrated Miyazaki film that more people should give credit to.

[@wolfstar675]

Chris if you liked this style of animation I recommend you watching a film called "Persepolis" which is based on the graphic novel of the same name. It's such a great animated film not anime but it's an animated film.

[@analazarescu6091]

I loved the animation, and the way it was designed especially. It has something magical about it, and even if it seems old or how some other people said in the comments "lazy drawn" whatever, for me it looks very authentic and expressive, and the painting tehnique is just wonderful, brings that touch of childhood's purity. It fits perfectly with such a beautiful and emotional story. when i was a little girl i loves Thumbelina as well, so maybe that's another reason why i loved this animation.

[@ericworthing1853]

I just watched this movie yesterday and my god, the ending was the saddest I'd ever seen in any movie, topped even Grave of the Fireflies. I felt depressed after watching it and wanted to kill Kaguya's father for what a douchebag he turned into. Beautiful movie though and very emotional.

[@hazmannaim8071]

and the end credit song.. ughhh.. just adding the feels..

[@cordillerialatria1313]

LOL...buddha....

[@b3lurxxxm3duza]

the things is,even if the dad fucked up, you could tell he really loved kaguya and wanted the best for her. So it made me very conflicted, cause i wanted to hate him for making her so unhappy, but he didn't want to make her suffer. That fucking ending broke my heart

[@carljthatsme94]

Takahata can make any man cry

[@andersforsgren887]

This film... this film is beyond phenomenal. After watching it today, I've never cried more because of a movie ever. The story is incredible and gripping with the most wonderful use of colors and style. Now, this is not an American happy ending lame butt movie. This has an extremely sad ending (which is why I cried). In fact, I don't really want to watch it again because of this... However, if you have not seen it, I strongly recommend it. You won't be disappointed. (And don't forget to put on your cultural glasses so you aren't weirded out by Japanese culture.)

[@AbzDahMan]

It's awesome that you love anime as much as you do, most people just dismiss it :( Can you do a series review of Avatar : The Last Airbender? I know it's not technically "anime" but it is inspired by it, and that doesn't take away from how amazing it is. The animation and the artwork is beautiful, as is the music. It's also a perfectly balanced mix of comedy, drama, character development, action, plot, philosophy and mythology. Please do a review of it, you won't regret watching it.

[@nesspareja3996]

I never paid much attention to anime (was I wrong!) and now I've been watching a number of anime's mainly Studio Ghibli. The movie was beautifully presented both artistically and story-wise. A unique masterpiece!

[@williamwong1982]

I finally saw this last night and it hit me like a ton of bricks

[@peperruti]

I agree 101% with everything you said. Studio Ghibli is the best animated studio working hands down. I grew up watching and appreciating their heart felt films.

[@DannyBReviews]

For his Super Smash Bros review, who wants to bet the KZbinr he's talking about is Jake Baldino?

[@MasterPpv]

Aidan O'Aidy ***** I'm wondering if it might be Jeremy Jahns actually =3

[@MasterPpv]

Ahh gotcha. I thought of Jeremy because I remembered in one of his older videos talking about Smash he said something like "Chris Stuckmann's goin' down" XD

[@hanito294]

Also what you mentioned about outsiders - the outsider theme, I think is present in a lot of ghibli films like kikis delivery service, nausicaa, princess mononoke, Porco Rosso, spirited away

[@isaacorchard7000]

Please tell me the KZbinr your smash bros'ing with is Jeremy Jahns. You two and John (FlickPick) are great. -Great to see you're so passionate about these movies. Congratulations on introducing the movie as well. Best wishes from Australia :)

[@TanayVaidya]

Jeremy could be in the video but I think I'm pretty sure that BecauseVideoGames is probably who he's talking about

[@YashuC]

Isao Takahata is such a underrated. Everyone talks about Miyazaka but Isao was connected with every of his film.

[@SomaKitsune]

You need to do a Grave of the Fireflies review!

[@SomaKitsune]

And My Neighbours the Yamadas

[@kassyyar97]

White Night is that movie good? (My neighbours the Yamadas) Im doing like a marathon of Studio Ghibli so Id like to watch every movie

[@SomaKitsune]

kassyyar97 Definitely. I think though that it's significantly more funny if you're married and have kids, purely because of how many jokes are made that are funny because of how true they are in family life.

[@kassyyar97]

ooh ok, thanks! I'll watch it then!!

[@carmenredonpomar1289]

A really special film. It's great that more people enjoyed as much as I did. Is so sad when the movie ends and there isn't anybody with whom share critics.

[@isaaclian11]

So, this takes place before Naruto and Sasuke beat her???

[@kasshern]

Lol I was thinking the same thing

[@char244]

Isaac Lian not funny

[@asifmetal666]

XxCoolcatgonexX Gaming dont argue.. he probably fighting who will fuck Anime girls.. sakura or hinata.. this r anime.. not real life person...

[@char244]

Thanks for the support!

[@mooganify]

Isaac J.S Banter

[@kpopical]

I had no idea this movie was from the same director of Grave of the Fireflies. That may rank as one of my favorite anime movies of all time (up there with Spirited Away, Paprika, Akira and my personal favorite, My Neighbor Totoro). Speaking of which, Chris, have you seen Paprika? It is one of the most visually satisfying movies I have ever seen.

[@MadAnime963]

Oh paprika, its so nice to hear someone mention it, that movie was ASTOUNDING and the musical track, just wow. I wasnt thinking it but he should totally review that movie, i think it might be right up his ally

[@lokithedriver]

where did you get the timeline picture of all studio ghibli films, I need the link!!!

[@PeterZeeke]

stuckmann gets kudos for reviewing this

[@31FilmTalk]

Glad to hear SG is still on a roll. Just curious, what are some lesser known animes that you enjoy? Your tastes seem to stray towards mainstream anime like Studio Ghibli or anything that was on Toonami, or big hitters like Akira or Ghost in the Shell. Got any out of left field favorites?

[@yongxia]

would really love to hear more about anime and foreign films. It was pretty funny seeing your comment in Podtaku too

[@bjerk1881]

WHY havent you reviewed spirited away?!!?!?!?!?!?

[@dranelemakol]

+Berk Toklucu It doesn't need a review.

[@bonbonvrock84]

+dranelemakol lol agreed

[@santatigerclaus]

my discs still in my player waiting for me to savor the excellence that is Ghibli- 2 movies on the disc- "When Marnie was there "

[@mahiriscool]

Finally an anime movie!!! Now where is that anime blu Ray collection?????

[@MatiasEzze]

This movie broke my hearth and I think I could never watch it again.

[@crimsonshadow42]

Isao Takahata is extremely underrated. He needs more recognition for his work, Miyazaki is not the be all end all of Ghibli. I got to see him at TIFF, he was very humble and seemed really happy to be there. This is a great movie and not like 90% of most anime that is aimed at horny teenagers.

[@dionysos46]

Matter with Takahata nowadays, he has the Richard Williams's Syndrome. Start a movie and take all the ways to let it unfinished. 8 years of production for Kaguya, Miya-San said Paku-san has a mental-disorder. No offense. His pre-Ghibli work was awesome, as Jarinko-Chie or Goshu the Cellist, and The Little Prince Norse wolves attack as a Helm Deep's Battle storyboard.

[@OurYoungProtagonist]

I've been dying to see this, but it only ever opened in like one theater in my entire state of PA, so I'll probably have to wait for DVD.