"Why do fireflies have to die so soon?"

Rating: 8/10 (24 April 2012)

The movie took on an added poignancy for me as I kept thinking of my own granddaughter, who's age approaches that of the young Setsuko in the movie. How horrifying a prospect to be left homeless under any conditions, let alone to deal with the death of a mother with no place to turn. The plight of Setsuko and her older brother Seita is dealt perhaps an even more severe blow by the indifference and even hostility of their countrymen and fellow citizens. I was probably more disturbed by the idea that so little compassion was offered to these two troubled wanderers. I rarely watch animated films, and this is actually the very first anime feature I've ever seen, recommended by it's standing in the IMDb top film rankings. The picture is gorgeously rendered, and there's a lyrical quality to the quieter moments when the siblings take comfort in each other's presence against a backdrop of war and devastation. Be prepared for an emotional response to the heartbreak of loss and separation, exemplified by a brother and sister who mean the world to each other.