Grave of the Fireflies Review: An Unforgettable Anti-War Tragedy
9/10 — Grave of the Fireflies (1988)
Pros
- Gorgeous hand-drawn art
- Truthful, moving portrayal of children in war
- Emotional impact
Cons
- Extremely sad
- Not a casual watch
Near the end of the Second World War, teenage Seita and his little sister Setsuko try to survive in Japan after an air raid destroys their home and kills their mother. Isao Takahata’s Studio Ghibli film is widely considered one of the saddest ever made.
What works
The animation is hand-drawn and beautiful, and the film refuses to sentimentalise, giving us small moments of joy, like catching fireflies, that make the tragedy hit harder. Setsuko’s characterisation is touchingly natural.
Where it falters
It’s extremely bleak and is not for casual watching, and some viewers find Seita’s pride frustrating.
Verdict
A heartbreaking, essential piece of animation. Bring tissues, and expect to be quiet afterwards.
