Trailer Link

Release Date:

October 17, 2014

Synopsis:

From IMDb: “An old man makes a living by selling bamboo. One day, he finds a princess in a bamboo. The princess is only the size of a finger. Her name is Kaguya. When Kaguya grows up, 5 men from prestigious families propose to her. Kaguya asks the men to find memorable marriage gifts for her, but the 5 men are unable to find what Kaguya wants. Then, the Emperor of Japan proposes to her.”

Poster: C+

Review: It’s a simple, still image from the film which highlights the style of animation on display without digging into its ambiguities, intricacies or craftsmanship.

Trailer: B

Review: The films have have emerged from the Japanese animation markets have been largely disappointing to me. Other than Miyazaki, nothing has had any genuine appeal. With a style that sometimes feels less animé, it might appeal to those who aren’t enamored with the design aesthetics. However, there’s just enough hint in the trailer to this being similar in tone that it might fall between pro-Miyazaki and anti-Miyazaki camps.

Oscar Prospects:

Studio Ghibli’s reputation is high with the Academy. Famed director Hayao Miyazaki snagged several nominations for his films. This traditional animated film could be one of the year’s contenders for five slots, but depending on what films are in competition, it might not be able to make it in.

Revisions:

(September 28, 2014) Original