cancerBronzeV t1_je9vz8d wrote on March 30, 2023 at 1:59 PM

This is probably my favourite anime romance movie; I remember hating the movie the first time I watched it because I just didn't expect it not being a traditional romance and it threw me off, but on a rewatch I just absolutely loved it. It's so beautiful in just how mundane and non-fantastical it is (compared to like most of the rest of Shinkai's works, which usually brings in some magical element). It just lets you simmer in this bittersweetness throughout that arises from just natural circumstances and nothing else.

The movie kinda reminds me of In the Mood for Love tbh, with both dealing with the melancholy from missed opportunities, backed by vivid visuals and a great soundtrack. They are different in pretty big ways too, but they both just give me the same kinda feeling when I watch them.

Rabona_Flowers t1_je9yr0p wrote on March 30, 2023 at 2:20 PM

I think the fact that you required 2 viewings backs up my point about the first half being poorly written. Their alleged feelings for each other aren't given any credibility until we actually see them interact in the middle.

cancerBronzeV t1_je9z5n6 wrote on March 30, 2023 at 2:23 PM

I agree that it's not the best written (I think it's one of Shinkai's earlier features where he's still a bit raw), but idk if my needing 2 viewing is the perfect evidence for it. There's plenty of movies which I didn't appreciate until a later viewing which I still think were well written (like Enemy (2013)).

Rabona_Flowers t1_jea045d wrote on March 30, 2023 at 2:30 PM

He's definitely improved a lot, starting with Your Name. When that film came out a lot of people were calling him "The New Miyazaki" and I felt offended on Miyazaki's behalf because I'd seen his previous films...

I still think there's a big gap between their respective storytelling abilities, but it's not the huge chasm it used to be!

cancerBronzeV t1_jea0j7u wrote on March 30, 2023 at 2:33 PM

I can agree with that, Shinkai's main strength are his visuals over his story telling, even though he has improved in the latter. I think Shinkai still has a ways to before I can talk about him at the same level as someone like Miyazaki. I'd say anime directors who can considered at that level are Isao Takahata and Satoshi Kon (who I think is straight up the best, despite having his career get cut short).