A year after their deceased friend Honma Meiko appeared to them, Jinta Yadomi and the other members of the Super Peace Busters decide to write letters in her memory. Attempting to enjoy their summer together, they reminisce about their time together before and after her death.
AnoHana. Movie retells the main events of the parent story in the perspective of each member of the Super Peace Busters.
Ano Hi Mita Hana no Namae wo Bokutachi wa Mada Shiranai: The Movie Synopsis
“Ano Hi Mita Hana no Namae wo Bokutachi wa Mada Shiranai” (“Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day”) movie is a sentimental and emotionally charged roller coaster ride set in the backdrop of a story that focuses on themes of friendship, loss, regret and closure. The movie follows a remorseful group of six childhood friends, haunted by their friend, Menma’s untimely death. The movie provides a bittersweet revisit to the TV series, retelling the story through the perceptive eyes of Menma’s friends, Jinta, Anaru, Poppo, Yukiatsu, and Tsuruko, while pondering on the memories shared with Menma.
Fast-forward to few years, estranged friends reunite when Menma’s spirit returns to their lives, causing the group, particularly the ‘leader’, Jinta, to confront their unaddressed emotions and guilt. This is where the sentimental journey into their past begins, unfolding the truth behind their fragmented friendships, unresolved feelings and suppressed apologies.
Ano Hi Mita Hana no Namae wo Bokutachi wa Mada Shiranai: The Movie Review
“Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day” movie is a true-tear jerker that powerfully expresses the raw wounds of loss while also beautifully illustrating the journey towards healing. The first thing that strikes you about this anime movie is its stunning visual aesthetic – the soft color palette, the subtle lighting and the flawlessly animated expressions that breathe life into the characters. It’s a visual masterpiece!
The movie does go beyond aesthetics and delves deep into the realms of the human psyche – handling the complex emotions of grief, blame, denial, guilt, forgiveness and acceptance associated with loss. In its heart, it’s a movie that beautifully jumbles innocence, love and regrets, propagating a lingering message about facing the past, accepting reality, seeking closure and moving forward.
The characters in “Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day” are well-fleshed out, each carrying their own emotional baggage, each unique in their own ways, all very real. You’ll find yourself relating to them, sympathizing with them and even shedding a tear or two for them. Their camaraderie, youthful dreams and harsh reality, tug at your heartstrings, making this anime more than just animation, but a passionate story that brilliantly portrays the angst and melancholy of fleeting childhood friendship.
Voice acting is fantastic, coupled with raw background scores, that create an atmosphere so palpable and intense, you can almost reach out and touch it. Subtle sound effects, like that of a summer cicada or gently falling raindrops, contribute to creating a melancholic ambiance perfect for the unfolding narrative.
My only minor gripe is that the movie at its core is a recap of the series. So for those who’ve watched the series, it might feel repetitive. However, the manner in which it provides a new perspective to the tale, makes it worth a watch.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, “Ano Hi Mita Hana no Namae wo Bokutachi wa Mada Shiranai: The Movie” is a poignant rendition of loss, love and friendship that blows you away emotionally. It doesn’t merely narrate a story; it emotes a story, deeply touchy, truly beautiful. Whether to rent, buy, or stream is a matter of personal choice, but if you’re a fan of emotional anime, do yourself a favor and don’t miss this one!
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