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

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.

@Mic-Mak

Жыл бұрын

It's totally a Ghibli film for me, and one of my favorites. So beautiful!

@mrmarmellow563

Жыл бұрын

Aye BRILLIANT 😄

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.

@meee_5155

3 ай бұрын

He also said he wrote it because he feels guilty because his younger sister died because he didn’t give her as much food and kept more for himself

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.

This is my favorite ghibli films because it’s so brutally human, so cruel and heartbreaking of a film.

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.

@daniel_netzel

Жыл бұрын

Thank you for the kind words. I think there's a lot of factors that went into this video not performing well, but if I've learned anything on YT it's that a video can find it's audience later down the line, fingers crossed on that haha.

@davy209

9 ай бұрын

@daniel_netzel- I absolutely love this video you made about the movie. I’ve seen “Grave of the Fireflies” 4 times already, but I still struggle find the words adequate enough to express how great the film is in my own words. How you talked about the film so eloquently, was everything I’ve felt when watching the movie! You literally took all the words out of my mouth and I’ve could have never done a better job than what you’ve expressed in your video!

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.

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.

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!

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. 🤟🏻😎🖤

This video is criminally low on views. It deserves so much more. Beautiful video about a gorgeous film.

@daniel_netzel

Жыл бұрын

I think taking such a long hiatus, and then trying the "premiere" feature on KZread just totally screwed this video, but I think it's the best thing I've made yet. I appreciate your comment :)

Ghibli movies have pretty mature themes by American standards, but this was a particularly tough watch. I'm glad it was made.

A great essay about the most devastating movie I have ever seen. One of your best videos so far. Thanks for the tears

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.

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.

My favourite Studio Ghibli movie ❤

@daniel_netzel

9 ай бұрын

Mine too

That alway blew my mind . That the speech proceeds the animation . Such a cool concept

That was an amazing analysis of an amazing film. Thank you!

Wow, three of the greatest Japanese animated films of all time were released 1988; Grave of the Fireflies, My Neighbor Totoro & Akira!

@aeri_taylors-version

Жыл бұрын

i believe they released grave of the fireflies and totoro at the same time so ppl watch totoro as a balm after watching...this

@89Awww

Жыл бұрын

@@aeri_taylors-version That makes sense, they're both heartfelt stories about two siblings who find themselves wrapped up in extraordinary circumstances.

@allymoeller5328

9 ай бұрын

You think My Neighbor Totoro over Ghost in the Shell???????

@89Awww

9 ай бұрын

@@allymoeller5328 It's great but it was released in 1995, not 1988 like the other three films I mentioned.

I am just left speechless... You have translated this movie into a beautiful video.

Thank you. That was wonderfully written and brilliantly understood. Nice to see you back.

Thanks for making this. This is a great video and really puts another perspective on Grave of the Fireflies that I needed.

such a great essay! tbh i wish all film unis on this planet could show this as an example on how to make a film analysis via video essay,, or just generally let you teach that class. yours are always exceptional :)

@daniel_netzel

Жыл бұрын

That is so kind of you!

Again, love your video essays, but this one really hit me in the feels

I dont even think its unintended to be antiwar at all considering the story is based on the real story of a person, that really speaks for itself in my eyes.

Imo, Takahata has always appealed to me more than Miyazaki has. I consider Grave of the Fireflies and Tale of Princess Kaguya as the most heart wrenching and aesthetically beautiful works in Ghibli history. Make that animation history. What a brilliant director

Hey, man. Just found your channel and love your videos! Welcome back and thanks for sharing your thoughts about this classic Ghibli film.

this is a film that managed to make me cry from 20 mins in till the end and that has never happned. i have cried to films before. but to fill me with such emotion has never been something i hvae dealt with. such a fantastic film. i was hesitant bc it not appealing so and so, those of you who wont watch the film bc it does not look like something u would watch just stop. watch it. what an emotional masterpiece.

Gorgeous work.

Superb video! Not only commenting but also strong analyzing with detailing edits, which help me see more hidden values of the movie indeed!

Damn I read summary of this movie.. I'm crying right now.. I'm not watching this movie but the world needs to which these movies.. seeing whats happening in Gaza or Ukraine or many parts of the world.. this is important

Incredible video. 😌 Well done, *Daniel.*

Wonderful, amazing video, so completely worthy of the masterpiece you so eloquently celebrate!

It’s not in Roger Ebert’s Top 10 Movies without good reason! An absolutely vital experience.

@davy209

9 ай бұрын

For years, I’ve put more trust on Roger Elbert’s opinions on what are considered great movies that what the Oscars have picked.

I love your voice, and this movie, and the animation, and the sum of all these parts is going to give me a good night's sleep. Thankyou.

Loved the video. Saw the video yesterday.

Out of curiosity, what do you think this movie is about? You mentioned this would be your most emotional video essay, in what sense did you mean by that?

@ennuiblue4295

Жыл бұрын

It's a very tragic story, I could only watch it once I teared up 😥 (and it is about the horrors and disgusting loss of war)

@daniel_netzel

Жыл бұрын

Well, there's the objective answer of what Nosaka or Takahata had intended, both of whom have spoken publicly about. For Nosaka it seemed to be an attempt at atonement for what happened to his sister, and for Takahata it seemed to be a message to the youth who were growing increasing detached from community, and growing "softer" I believe he put it. But for me, it is a story about the true cost of war that we often try to brush under the rug, I think it's a heartwrenching tragedy and one of if not the greatest anti-war films I've ever seen.

@CloudShepherd

Жыл бұрын

@@daniel_netzel Huh. I don't remember Takahata using the word "softer", but I guess that's what he meant in some sense about people. I ask because I happen to be interested in Grave of the Fireflies to the degree that I am working a video essay of my own on the movie. I can't wait to see your video and what you have to say about the movie from your perspective. I do agree this movie holds a special place in the medium of animation proven by its profound power over people's emotions.

@Mic-Mak

Жыл бұрын

@@ennuiblue4295 I watched it 4 times in a row in the space of 48h and cried every time. I don't know why, but for some reason, it's not one of those films I can only watch once, despite how sad it makes me feel. Of course, I need space between each watch, the only reason I watched if 4x in a row, is because I watched it in different languages.

glad to hear your voice again

This was really great. Love the movie and love your work.

It’s awesome to see you coming back. I just found out about your channel and watched The Last Of Us video essay you had a loved it. I was wondering how you liked Part 2?

@daniel_netzel

Жыл бұрын

Thanks dude! I thought the gameplay felt a little dated, but that the story and cinematic aspects were incredible, I was speechless by the end.

@jeremyball116

Жыл бұрын

@@daniel_netzel thanks for replying! And I can see that but all the added details and realism in the animations and dialog of them screaming out to each other made it feel more immersive than anything else for me. And I agree I loved how the entire story played out and understand the backlash but everything people seem to hate is exactly why I loved it. It just connected perfectly with me. After playing it 3 times now it is honestly my favorite game of all time and it would be amazing if you ever made a video about it.

Great video. I think I know how to recommend this movie to others now

Thank you for this great video.

@daniel_netzel

Жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching, Laura :)

This movie is side by side with come and see when we talking about anti-war movies

Ive watched every video on this subject, you take the cake

It is sad that nobody nowdays knows this movie honestly

Thx. Enjoying your work

holy f this video is so good. as someone who already loved the film, i appreciate it even more now

awesome essay.

Cant wait to get off work to watch this haha

Great video about a beautiful movie!

Worth the wait :)

This is a beautiful movie I watched once and I never want to watch again.

A really hard, but great, well done and needed film. And I appreciate that it wasn’t too heavy handed…..in keeping with reality, which is more often grey than black and white.

Holy sh#% This video was a perfect analysis!

A must-watch for anyone. Utterly heart-breaking. Very well-done video essay. Solid editing and a script with a lot to say. Emotional, as expected.

hey Daniel, thanks for this video, reminded me of so many emotions, if you would like to see a live action movie about war check "Voces Inocentes", its a latino movie that didnt get much track if at all but damn, its the only movie that got me crying so bad...

Welcome back

A movie that fucked me up in my childhood and still gives me flashbacks... That movie really traumatized me

Cette histoire est tellement déchirante, on a envie de faire quelque chose d'humain , les prendre dans nos bras , les nourrir, les aimer tout simplement !

This film really reminded me of a graphic novel called Lions or Baghdad. The story revolves around a pride of lions who recently escaped a Baghdad Zoo during a US invasion and bombing. Highly recommend it.

I am tired and sick of war. Its glory is all moonshine. It is only those who have neither fired a shot nor heard the shrieks and groans of the wounded who cry aloud for blood, for vengeance, for desolation. War is hell. -William T Sherman

This is happening right now in Gaza. I always thought the story of this strong animation is something just for the past and we will repeat it

@kblearner1528

16 күн бұрын

This almost happened to my sister She is 5

Im 18 and my sister is 5 She is exactly like Setsuko both in looks and behaviour Cant stop imagining the same scenario whatever happened to Setsuko I just keep imagining that she..... And I cant even do anything except beating my head to the wall and crying I feel so angry towards the stupid war planes I want to destroy them but I can't.......

Very good this 30yreold film has been noticed from the west

Where do y’all in the US watch this though? I don’t see it available anywhere

This isn't a anti war film. It is a personal film about a boy not being strong enough to save his sister and the tragedy of it that the original author had to live with

Yes, stories matter ♥

the most difficult thing i've ever watched

but they did make the un animated movie of it, i think all anime is just have to be an animation.. they should never remake any of them as life action

This story is based on the real experience of the original author. It is the story of the younger sister of the original author, Akiyuki Nosaka. His sister starves to death during the war as well, although it's not exactly the same as the anime. Chinese and Koreans who have seen this film say that Japan is glorifying the war and trying to hide its own wrongdoings. They are a people who have been brainwashed by anti-Japaneseism that always writes such things, so please do not deal with them. What is pictured here is an ordinary citizen of Japan. It simply depicts the grief of unwar-related civilians who suffer from government-initiated wars. It should be the same in any country. However, whenever this movie appears on KZread, Chinese and Koreans always criticize it as a deception of Japanese militarism. They don't try to understand the true sorrow of war, they just try to demean Japan. I can still understand the criticism of the Chinese, but I do not understand why the Koreans continue to criticize Japan. Japan and South Korea are generally not at war. There was a period of rule by Japan for legitimate development of Korea. The South Korean government has labeled it an invasion, brainwashed the people, and is still holding a grudge against it and criticizing it persistently. Without this governance, there would be no development of Korea today. Even though they have nothing to do with World War II, they still act like war victims and accuse Japan of being an aggressor. I don't understand. stupid people. When Koreans go out into the world, they only speak ill of Japan. Japanese people are in a lot of trouble. To the people of the world, Please don't believe what they say. Everything they say is a fabricated history that suits the Korean government. Sadly, the Korean public believes that bullshit history to be true.

@homosapien7316

Жыл бұрын

Japan committed sickening war crimes against these countries. I agree that this movie doesn't deserve that specific criticism because of it is from the perspective of two innocent civilians who are just trying to survive, and doesn't have a war-crime sympathetic view. However, pretending the Japanese military's war crimes are all lies is dangerous. There are no good guys in war. Only killers and victims. The military and government are the killers, civilians are the victims. And Japanese soldiers brutally raped, murdered, and burned chinese Innocents. Just like how the US government murdered and burned Japanese innocents. defending the Japanese is just as bad as defending the US.

Am I late -__-

Still a better love story than Twilight

Didn't feel any remorse for the kids. All I could think of is how stupid Seita's decision was. He shouldn't have left. He should've helped with he chores around the house or find an odd job. I can totally understand where that auntie was coming from.

Make the videos shorter...

it's a real shame japanese people aren't taught about Nanjing and Unit 731.

Mans have the most basic taste in movies

@CloudShepherd

Жыл бұрын

Do you think this movie is about war?

@ennuiblue4295

Жыл бұрын

This is a classic movie, what's your problem?

@daniel_netzel

Жыл бұрын

I like what I like 🤷‍♂️

@ralph6417

Жыл бұрын

Can you just get lost?

@C.G.O.Iddamalgoda

4 ай бұрын

We like what we like stfu