Two children on their course to survive a time where they are abandoned by everyone

Rating: 9/10 (17 July 2006)

This comment may contain spoilers, though it doesn't re-tell the story, there may be hints to certain things.
Hotaru no Haka, or the grave of the firefly(/ies), is the perfect choice for everyone who want's to learn about the impact of war on mankind ... or in this case more specifically: on children who lose their parents because of war.
One shouldn't watch this movie when in good mood, because the mood won't last the movie. Not even the first 5 minutes, when we see Seita the first time. The movie understands to effect one's feelings in a way one will never forget. I once read: "Anybody able to watch this movie without crying is no human being whatsoever" (meant metaphorically) and I think that it is the best way to describe the feeling of the movie altogether. Another thing I read, which describes the development of the feelings while watching the movie: "As the movie continues you will feel your throat being laced up tighter and tighter" The movie reaches this unique feelings by working with below-center shots that clearly show the position of these children in this world (a grey, grey sky and nothing in it and Seita in between), scenes that simply tear your heart apart (alluding to every scene Setsuko's in, especially at the end) when children cry for food and a topic that concerns everyone: war.
But Hotaru no Haka doesn't start and say: We (the Japanese) feel that any country is responsible for anything. It remains neutral, keeping the topic to itself not expanding on what caused the war or the situation, but the effect it takes upon the people. Doing this, Hotaru no Haka doesn't halt to show any scene of cruelty. Burnt cadavers, fire mass-burials and children with the worst signs of malnutrition (and who doesn't feel bad seeing a malnourished kid?).
Summed up: Great movie. I voted for it with 9 points because I think this movie's telling a great story and overbrings a great message. Anyone who's seen this movie will think twice about making a war-joke, or even wishing for it (therefore: very educational!). It's not 10 points because there are some allusions in the movie I'd have rather left out ;)