The best movie you'll never watch twice

24,644
0
Published 2022-08-31
Grave of the Fireflies is one of Studio Ghibli's greatest films, and one of the most significant achievements in the world of animation. This video essay examines the film in detail to deconstruct all of the ways that animation was used to serve the story, and how it transcends even live action.

Check out my website:
www.danielnetzel.com/

Help me make more videos and get behind the scenes content:
www.patreon.com/filmradar

Tip Jar:
www.paypal.me/danielnetzel

Hang out with me live:
www.twitch.tv/danielnetzel

Follow me:
www.patreon.com/filmradar
www.facebook.com/thefilmradar
www.twitter.com/film_radar

All Comments (21)
  • people really need to watch this at least once in their lives. it teaches us to not romanticize war. it teaches us that the end doesn’t always justify the means, especially if the means is war
  • @karol1986
    Its always hard for me to see this one as a "ghibli" movie since it stands out so much from other studio efforts with how heavy, bleak and harrowing it is. But I believe its one of the movies that shapes ones empathy. And its just one of the best anti-war movies of all times and absolute must-see for everyone.
  • I remember watching this as a child scrolling through TV channels late one night. As an 8 year old, I thought it was initially a kids film, but I remember being so mesmerised cause I never really saw war shown in the way it’s depicted in this film before. I remember the ending broke me, but I was so glad I watched it.
  • @LeUberTroll
    I’d like to say that the lack of viewership on this video is not a testament to its quality. It more so reflects the effectiveness and difficulty of viewing the film itself. Just the name is capable of bringing those feelings to the surface. I can feel tears just thinking about the movie. So be sure to not take that personally, this video was excellent.
  • @lucadasillywolf
    This is my favorite ghibli films because it’s so brutally human, so cruel and heartbreaking of a film.
  • I once heard Grave of the Fireflies described as "The most amazing film that you'll never want to watch again." I disagree with never watching it again, but it leaves a vivid impression on you that lasts for a very, very long time.
  • This is one of the greatest films, animated or otherwise, of all time. At least for me. Takahata always had a way with movies that not even Miyazaki, as much as I love the man, has. This is a harrowing, horrific and, at the same, beautiful and powerful masterpiece that stays with you years after you've seen it for the first, second or hundred time. Glad to see you tackle this film, Daniel. I've been a follower for a while now, and I will continue to be. You've been one of the best film tubers since the beginning and I'm sure success is just around the corner. Your work is something I'll continue to share every time. 🤟🏻😎🖤
  • Akiyuki Nosaka wrote the original story as an autobiographical account of his experience of the war. His adopted father died in the fire-bombing, his one sister died of radiation illness, and his youngest sister died of starvation.
  • @davy209
    It’s not forget that when “Grave of the Fireflies” was first broadcasted on American television was somewhere around 2004-2005, which was when the war in Iraq was at its peak and covered nonstop by every mainstream media outlet at the time. Also, “Grave of the Fireflies” was originally released in Japan back in 1988, so there was a significant time gap around 16-17 years between the two release dates. So it makes sense why so many people, who watched the movie for the first time, interpreted it as an anti-war film and being labeled as an anti-war film by an audience from a newer generation, who also grew up at a time of war, would resonate with them. The film is better received now and back then in 2005, than it was during its original 1988 release!
  • @NikiWonoto26
    I'm from Indonesia. This is a very underrated deeply heartfelt masterpiece video essay on, arguably, perhaps one of those few & rare movies (& works of art) that truly depicts & portrays the harsh reality of life & this world, that even most live-action films have never even dared enough to venture into such darkest truth & fact about our fragile existence. In shorter words, while true it's depressing, but it's very realistic. To be very honest, I've never even expected that this type of movie come from Studio Ghibli, of all places, because like you've said so well in your video essay, this movie is so contrasting & different from the typically 'fun, lighter, happy, imaginative, wonderful' Ghibli films. But this is exactly why it's a very special movie, perhaps only just few of us that can fully & deeply appreciate this film. Thank you very much for such a deeply heartfelt & beautiful video essay.
  • This video is criminally low on views. It deserves so much more. Beautiful video about a gorgeous film.
  • Ghibli movies have pretty mature themes by American standards, but this was a particularly tough watch. I'm glad it was made.
  • I got choked up even watching this video. A fittingly gorgeous and moving essay for a devastating masterpiece of a film. Incredible work, I'd consider this essential viewing for anyone who's seen the movie. Also, the thumbnail is extra spicy.
  • @FistAsmussen
    A great essay about the most devastating movie I have ever seen. One of your best videos so far. Thanks for the tears
  • @a.a677
    This movie changed me. One of the best films I will never watch again.
  • This is one of few movie that actually depicted the horror of war. Most of them glorified war.
  • @lanegeorgeton8266
    That alway blew my mind . That the speech proceeds the animation . Such a cool concept
  • @Mitsuzen.
    My favourite Studio Ghibli movie ❤
  • @89Awww
    Wow, three of the greatest Japanese animated films of all time were released 1988; Grave of the Fireflies, My Neighbor Totoro & Akira!