Sayonara no Asa ni Yakusoku no Hana wo Kazarou

Whether this is your kind of story or not, the execution is brilliant. The themes of immortals raising mortals and forever baby fever are admittedly not a "safe bet" like good vs. evil and (good xor bad) boy meets !(good xor bad) girl. So there are moments where the actions of our two polar opposite personalites and forever young Mama Bears Laylia and Maquia seem trite or unfortunate. But again, the execution is brilliant - and frankly those moments can either be read as true to the character OR trite, depending on the viewer. I think this is the main axis that splits people on ... meh/love for this movie. The story is quite ambitious - it spans a lifetime and explores all stages of life thematically through a mature lens, without focusing too much on this aspect and making room for a dynamic plot about people stuck under the rule of brutal regimes and what they must do to eek out a living, or to survive when they find themselves at the center of conflict. As that implies, there is some solid action and the stakes feel quite high.

I loved this thing. The story and everything that supports it. This is a complete package. Sound and score in particular are just amazing, the art is phenomenal although not as colorful as we are used to for most of the movie - but I will point out that the muted palette contrasts with the vibrant one we begin/end the movie with. Clearly this was intentional, it reflects the arc of life and parenting which has it's greatest joys and greatest struggles roughly in step with the choice of palette here which is awesome and hilarious. It is a more "realistic" style and the major effort seems to have gone into the detailed backgrounds, scale, and overall fluidity between the characters and their environment, the mood of the scene and mode of art direction appropriate for that scene. The production values are subordinate to the vision, the direction - as it should be. Still, many of the animation "accents" and action scenes were remarkably good and hit their marks without fanfare. The subtelty is appreciated.

I don't usually put sound on a pedastal, but this is a beautiful soundtrack. We open with the sound of a harp and a massive industrial loom working in sync. Slowly we are shown angles that reveal the absolutely massive extent of this process in a beautiful spire with flowing water as a scintilating cloth that filters light like a prism and is to be understood as what The Fates of greco roman mythology weave i.e. a record of the past/present/future is spun. This melancholy, free spirit progression sets the mood for the "clan of the separated" and where they live to perfection. The quality of the opening tune and shots was incredibly immersive. Right after that, we get a clear first look at the personalities of Laylia and Maquia who will drive the plot forward later on. The exuberance of Laylia and trepidation of Maquia are both conveyed in the score as well as this scene. When things do turn dark, the sounds of the dragons and fire and things getting destroyed is equally impressive, likewise for the BGM. The same could be said of the final battle scene. Top notch voice acting for everyone except ironically Maquia, who has that very high-pitched "oh, uh, um..." thing going on, completes this package. They really got the sound effects, BGM, and the voice acting to a level you rarely see. The feel is that of a sophisticated high-quality live action that isn't trying to be sophisticated, just trying to do what makes the most sense. In line with that the sound and art (which clearly draws direct inspiration from lord of the rings) reminds me of the lord of the rings movies. Most scenes found a useful synergy between sound, art/set dressing/makeup, and the script. Bravo!

Spotlighting the artwork, I'll go back to the opening. They conveyed with the bright colors and remote mountaintop vista a peaceful life observing the flow of time without affecting it, beyond the reach of the mortal realm. They wear white togas and sandals, the architectural features are reminiscent of ancient greece and stonehenge, certainly there is a druidic influence to the designs - but with functioning wooden windows and doors. The interiors are reminiscent of Hobbiton from LOTR. Plain stone steps, circles and ovals, simple quarters with wooden looms and a small bed by a window, candlelight, water flowing everywhere. It is all beautiful and simple and functional - a purposeful existence. I felt they were alluding to mount olympus in that they appear to be at the peak of some mountain somewhere, but there are so many other influences it feels unique. A warm place for some of the elves, and a cold place for others - for Laylia, an ill-fated, free-spirited girl, it is a home. For Maquia, whose fate is less tragic, and who does not appear to have any loving relationships with other elves in contrast to Laylia, it is a limbo. Just as we begin to feel comfortable with the setting, amid a beautiful field of blooming flowers in the night... DRAGON RIDERS! OH SHIT! "Take the women, kill any who resist!" - well then, and now for something completely different! A completely different set of influences and elements will now be revealed as we explore the world beyond this mystical mountaintop. These dragons look incredible by the way. The mouse like Maquia, having escaped, will be shown prying the rigomortised fingers of a slain mother away from a crying baby in the night and taking him in. We see from this point on a marked change in the art direction - it is as if the idea of the place where the cloth was woven has been forgotten. It's really good. This is some game of thrones stuff in terms of the world they are able to create visually - and thankfully no one drew their starbucks onto anyone's desk.

My feeling overall is that this is one of the best movies I've seen in recent memory. The package is generally appealing enough as a film, that it makes my very short lists of "Anime for people who hate Animated stuff", "family viewing", and "plan to rewatch" titles. Clearly some recycling from live action classics like lord of the rings, probably game of thrones too - but it was distinct enough to feel original. Reminds me of Kyousou Giga in a way. Something of a case study on bloodless family bonds and how to navigate them as an immortal being that hits surprisingly close to heart for the viewer, because it puts a strain on the natural version of these bonds that the average lifespan cannot. The theme of motherhood, in all its high glory and ugly desperation, overriding all other aspects of being regardless of circumstance is really what we're exploring in this movie. The grief of losing a loved one and the relative value of our bonds when they pull in opposite directions, war and the strange duality of citizenship - it is both the most and least important thing, we are both detached from and inextricably linked to the political absurditites of those who rule. It succeeds quite well most of the time in dealing with the long arc of life and intracacies of love - both a sad, and a happy ending. What glues it all together is a beautiful soundscape and score that nails every section of this story - it's not particularly original, but it is just perfect for precisely the sequences it supports. That's the +1 from a 9/10 for me, having watched the dub I have to say every supporting character does incredible work in an atypically mature style of dialogue, and the title character's more anime-traditional delicate flower voice is not much of a drag on that thankfully.

In terms of predictability, while some story elements might be anticipated in a general sense, the narrative takes unexpected turns, particularly in how it handles the emotional depth and complexities of its characters. I enjoyed it because it delves into the emotional struggles of its characters in a way that feels genuine and heartfelt.

The art style is quite fitting for the story. It's beautifully animated, capturing both the fantastical and mundane aspects of the world, which complement the emotional depth of the narrative.

The characters are well-rounded; they have both strengths and flaws. Maquia, for instance, possesses resilience and love but also faces challenges stemming from ... her immortality. Other characters also undergo realistic development, showcasing their strengths and vulnerabilities.

Their reactions to situations feel genuine and human. They grapple with difficult decisions and emotions, reacting in ways that feel authentic given their circumstances.

As for others' enjoyment, it depends on individual tastes. Those who appreciate emotionally rich narratives, stunning animation, and themes of love and sacrifice may find it captivating. However, those who prefer faster-paced plots or are less drawn to introspective, emotionally driven stories might not enjoy it as much.

Ultimately, its appeal might vary based on personal preferences, but its emotional depth and visual beauty could resonate with many audiences.

10/10 story
10/10 enviroment
10/10 music
everything 10/10
this anime movie is underrated if you have time you must watch this unique masterpiece.

I can't explain how incredible and breathtaking this movie is.

I watched it at first without having any expectations in particular and ended up ugly crying all the tears I had in my body.
This is the type of movie where words cannot describe the amount of raw and pure emotion it holds. It flawlessly conveys the universal theme of love, more specifically, parental and maternal love. It's so much more powerful and impactful than your typical teenage romance, which is also really refreshing to see.

The characters are endearing, the art is beautiful and colourful, and the OST is delicate, profound, and is used so well ... in the movie that it stands very well on its own.

If you want a bittersweet and heartfelt storyline, Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms is the movie that you must watch if you don't want to miss something outstanding.

I found it curious that a movie about the love parents have for their children would start off with a promise that such love would inevitably be lost. Maquia is very insistent on this. It is written into the premise of the movie, about how an immortal, elf-like woman tries to raise her non-immortal, very human son. This promise is repeated throughout the movie, so much so that you’d think it really was only a matter of time before she would be separated from her son. And yet, somehow, this movie is not a tragedy. Though it is mired by its frequent narrative missteps, Maquia ... is perhaps one of the most profound reflections on parenthood and responsibility I have ever seen.

Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms, Mari Okada’s directorial debut, follows Maquia, a mythical, ageless being, after she rescues a baby, Ariel, and raises him as her own. It chronicles their lives as Maquia adjusts to the outside world and learns how to provide for her newborn son. Much (honestly, all) of the draw of this movie involves Maquia and Ariel’s journey across foreign lands, their bond together as mother and son, and what we can learn from how it changes over time and circumstance.

And to its credit, Maquia’s chronicle of parenthood is told with surprising acuity. Maquia’s early days of raising a baby on a farm are replete with the simple joys of parenting itself. Seeing Ariel walk for the first time, or being there to hear his first words—to Maquia the movie, these are joys worth sharing, milestones in parenthood that feel like their own reward. But parenting is not just some babysitting here and there. Maquia the movie does not shy away from the uncomfortable realities of being a working parent and its newfound emotional and economic toll. A forced relocation turns into a financial disaster, with Maquia struggling to make ends meet. At home, Ariel is uncooperative, and lacks the maturity and understanding to support his mother when she’s down. Maquia the movie shows an incisiveness to parenting that feels as if it was drawn from Mari Okada’s own experience with motherhood herself, and it is certainly all the more convincing for it.

Adding to Maquia’s strengths is how it sells itself as a powerful and moving film, and everything from the sophistication of its production to its loving journey of a mother and her son would speak as such. This is because Maquia is adept at keeping the “texture” of its drama intact. In its big moments, everything feels the way it should. Its ideas of parenthood and love are (supposedly) universal. Its animation is fluid, and the various subtleties of each character’s emotional states are expressed in thoroughly convincing detail. The soundtrack that plays during key moments between Maquia and her son may be one of the most beautiful things I have ever heard.

And that, on a basic level, is about where the strengths of this story end. Maquia the movie prides itself on being an important, heartfelt drama, but much of this drama either doesn’t land, doesn’t make sense, or both. The things these characters are saying are just too unnatural, too out of touch, too focused on some heightened dramatic reality where children swearing they will grow up to “protect” their parents (from… what, exactly?) makes those parents break down in tears. And it’s telling how blunt some of the drama is that I was rarely left with the sense that anything substantial was actually said during what should have been key moments of catharsis.

Then there are the pacing issues. The frequent timeskips create tonal disconnects where characters we thought we knew spontaneously change, some for seemingly no reason. It takes active effort, as a viewer, to readjust to people behaving in ways that seem incongruent with how we have seen them only moments prior, even if the movie has some ostensible reason to do so to reflect how people change through the passage of time. One minute we see Ariel reconciling with Maquia after the stress of being a parent becomes too much for her to bear. The next minute, he’s… avoiding her? With no explanation? And then it happens again, a few scenes later? Where is the movie going with this? And what’s a Hibiol, again?

And yet, this is still a movie worth applauding. Maquia is not just a drama about the trials a mother goes through in raising her son. If that’s all this movie had going for it, I would not be writing this review. Because Maquia does not just chronicle the relationship between a mother and her child. Maquia charts Ariel’s growth over his entire lifespan, from early childhood to teenage development to independence in his adult years. Suddenly, Ariel is leaving the house, he’s getting married, he’s expecting his own baby. And suddenly, you realise Maquia isn’t just about someone figuring out how to be a parent—it’s about the nature of parenting itself.

The promises of parenthood are never what we expect. There is no guidebook, no instructions, no steps on parenting that teach us how to treat our children right. Being a mother is something Maquia learns only as she does it, where she has to both realise what her mistakes are and fix them, all on her own. We are constantly reminded of the lingering doubt in her mind if she has actually been a good parent at all. And as Ariel matures, new problems arise. As he grows older, he is no longer the naïve, dependent child he once used to be. But Maquia continues treating him as such, her good will getting in the way of being a good mother because she is parenting in the only way she knows how.

Which was why I found it so curious this movie would insist that Maquia losing Ariel was all but inevitable. Because it’s true. Maquia does not stay with Ariel forever. This movie makes it a point to show Ariel beginning his own life as an adult, now as a husband, and a soon-to-be father of his own. The childhood innocence Maquia once saw in Ariel is lost as he grows older, and in its place is the same sense of maturity and responsibility Maquia had to learn as she was raising him. People grow, and people change, and Maquia the movie posits that, sometimes, that change is irreconcilable with the past. The idea that familial love is unconditional and forever is incompatible with this movie, where Ariel’s relationship with Maquia grows ever more strained as he matures into adulthood and becomes increasingly independent, and as he comes to terms with his own unique responsibilities that arise from it. Instead, Maquia the movie is about accepting how our children will one day grow beyond us, and how they will come to value the efforts and sacrifices they made for their children as we did for them.

I don’t know if this is a good movie, but I do know it is ahead of its time. The script itself feels amateurish, and what should have been powerful and moving drama was let down by characters talking in ways that meant nothing of substance and carried little meaningful dramatic weight. It has pacing issues, tonal issues, and is full of confusing narrative ideas—some which work, and some that absolutely do not. And yet, I have never seen a movie that makes such profound statements on the nature of parenthood, and the courage of those who undertake it. Maquia is a movie that cares deeply about what being a parent really means, a movie that understands how our children will not always stay with us, and how they will grow up and learn to take on the same mantle we took on for them. As a character drama, this movie is riddled with missteps and questionable narrative choices. But as a reflection of parenthood? As an affirmation of everything that makes parenting worthwhile? It is a triumph. Sometimes, being a parent is about being there for them when it matters, and to love and nurture them all the while. And sometimes, the most loving thing you can do is to let them go.

The whole family was sobbing after this movie. Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms (2018) is a Japanese animated film I feel honored to watch.

Story:
The anime told the story of a life time, and managed to do so with excellent pacing. I am in utter shock that this movie did not feel rushed in the slightest. In this film, there were no filler or fanservice. This film chose to keep the more important parts of the story to stand out.

Art:
The art style of Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms (2018), is majestic and beautifully done. The anime is all about the inner concept of life ... and healing, so the magical and lively background is the perfect fit for this film. The wardrobes the characters wore, were very accurate to the setting and time period.

Sound:
The emotional music fit beautifully in this coming of age story, because life, is, emotional! The creators and voice actors/actresses did an amazing performance to tie this anime together. Hearing the emotion, the passion, the heartbreak, the trauma, there were so many layers to the acting that were done wonderfully!

Character:
The characters in Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms (2018), were very well rounded. It had almost felt like we, the viewer, had grown up with the cast. Each and every one of them were unique with still having their own flaws. strengths, and goals.

Enjoyment:
It is awesome! I can wholeheartedly recommend to any viewer looking to getting into an emotional coming of age story!

I'm going to try and write a short one without spoilers. This movie did a few things well, and I quite liked the story and the message it delivers. It does however lack seriously in character development outside of the two MCs, like seriously lacks. It was only so apparent because it seemed like they were setting up several other characters to have their own great stories or developments and then basically did nothing with any of them. It left a few characters fairly open ended as the story progresses which is also pretty disappointing. We spend enough time with them to grow some attachment ... and then literally never see them again and no one really seems to care.
I came to this movie becuase I kindof like 'tear-jerker' movies and shows but this really didn't hit the way I thought it would. I got a little watery eyed but no real tears and it honestly left me wondering "why?" over and over again.
Art style is meh, not a fan. The world it's set in is kinda cool. There are some elements relating to abuse, suicide, and manipulation that felt honestly a little innapropriate for the movie (these were NOT the focus in any way of the movie, just elements thrown in there a tiny bit).
I still liked it and recommend it, hence the 7/10 rating, but I wouldn't bash anyone for rating it lower though I would be concerned about any opinions that gave it a higher rating.

Maquia: A Poignant Tale of Love, Loss, and Motherhood

"Maquia" takes viewers on an emotional journey through the life of its titular protagonist, a member of the long-lived Iorph race. Maquia, orphaned at a young age, yearns for connection and a place in the outside world beyond the protective boundaries of her homeland. When the power-hungry kingdom of Mezarte invades, seeking the immortality of the Iorph, Maquia's world is shattered.

Amidst the chaos, Maquia finds herself alone, except for the cries of a baby in the distance. Determined to create a family and provide love and care, she takes in the child, Ariel, despite the challenges of ... raising a rapidly aging human. As she navigates the complexities of motherhood and grapples with her own immortality, Maquia learns valuable lessons about love, sacrifice, and the meaning of family.

"Maquia" beautifully explores themes of loneliness, identity, and the bonds that transcend time. The anime showcases stunning visuals and a poignant narrative that tugs at the heartstrings, immersing viewers in a world of both beauty and sorrow. Through Maquia's journey, the series delves into the depths of human emotions, capturing the joys and heartaches of motherhood, the struggle to belong, and the relentless passage of time.

The film's delicate storytelling and intricate character development breathe life into the struggles and triumphs of its characters. Maquia's determination to protect and nurture Ariel, despite her own vulnerabilities, resonates deeply, highlighting the unconditional love that transcends blood ties. The anime's exploration of the human condition and the universal desire for connection leaves a lasting impact.

"Maquia" is a poignant masterpiece that beautifully combines fantasy and humanity, showcasing the profound impact of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. It serves as a testament to the power of maternal love and the enduring strength found in the unbreakable bonds we forge. Join Maquia on her remarkable journey as she discovers the true meaning of family and finds solace in the embrace of her adopted son.

This film made me cry. Not just tear up, but cry. Properly sob. I will endeavour to talk about this film more, but I think this has to be put up-front because it has NEVER happened to me before. I mean never. This is why I have to give it the score I've given it, because I cannot plausibly have a film hit me on an emotional level I have never experienced before and give it anything else. It hit VERY close to home for me, and I will talk a bit (as impersonally as I can) about why, but that emotional response comes above ... everything else to me.

So, Maquia. Written and, for the first time in her career, directed by Mari Okada, I was always primed to connect with this. I have spoken many times about my admiration for her as a writer, and this sort of proves a lot of the reasons why I love her so much.
On the direction level, her new endeavour, I can't say I have any major issues. It was fairly conventionally directed, with the occasional shot here and there that feels a bit more aspirational. I think that was probably a sensible approach, it meant the direction didn't get in the way and was largely successful, rather than jumping into something really ambitious and stumbling. The animation is strong, the background work is particularly astounding. The character design is decent, although a couple of characters look a little similar, which does lead to a tiny bit of confusion at a couple of points. But as a production, P.A Works' strengths certainly shine through.

But I show up to a Mari Okada film for the writing, and she's given us some of her best work here. This is a beautiful story, heartwarming and heartbreaking and tragic and gentle. It's a story about love, about growing up, and about motherhood. For someone who doesn't have the best relationship with her mother right now, it kicked me square in the gut. Sometimes a story just hits you somewhere so deep, so personal, and Mari Okada is someone I find does that for me quite often, but even then, never anywhere close to this level.

I can't promise you'll have that experience. The friends I was watching it with reacted at various different levels, and not all of them at anywhere close to the same level as me. But even if you don't, it's a touching, emotional film that's bound to give you something you're looking for. And maybe, just maybe, you'll find something in it like I did. I, for one, will remember this movie for a very long time, and I imagine it will come to hold a very special place in my heart, as the first piece of art to ever make me break into tears.

Maquia does what it does well.
It hits all the emotional points that it needs to
It looks good, sounds good
And it tells the story that it wanted to

It takes you on a journey through Maquia's life, and while the story is not perfect as there are threads left hanging and often questions that are left unanswered, none of that detracts from the themes of the anime, which is where the focus of the story is.
Maquia is about the tapestry of life, the people you meet, the good times, the bad times, and the point when you must part from those you love.

SayoAsa to me was like a study: What happens if a (nearly) immortal being that has been kept away from all suffering endured by mortals is suddenly faced with the grimness of this world? This question was well thought through and executed even better.

Story: (I gave a 10/10)
The story about the unlikely mother and son was followed through to the end. Even if that meant some logical inconsistencies along the way, and a big case of "convenience" right before the climax. But to me that were sacrifices I was ready to endure. For the story started to make me wonder, fantasize and but-what-if... right along ... watching it and even more so after I had finished it. It posed some riddles, some questionmarks, into my brain which the latter will work on during the next days (though hopefully not at the cost of me slipping from reality...). And if a story achieves that within me, I consider it a good one. SayoAsa did so in an intensity very few stories have done before. Hence, I consider it a "masterpiece".

Art (I gave a 10/10)
The movie didn't look like one from 2018, it looked older for the most part. Not much, but older. More handdrawn and less CGI (though I'm not sure e.g. Leilia's flight was done that way). To me that's great. Because It did what it was supposed to: it evoked in me the feeling that this is another world far from my own. Yet, one that is inviting and worth exploring.

Sound (I gave a 8/10)
This is not to say I didn't like the sound. To the contrary - I loved the basedrum sound during the battle scenes, and the soft music in the emotional scenes sure worked well to underline the mood. But it is not a soundtrack I would buy and listen to. There are Anime movie soundtrack pieces I regularly listen to while relaxing, but I doubt any one from SayoAsa will get part of my playlist.

Charakter (I gave 10/10)
Here is where the movie shines. Some voices I heard/read complained about the missing development of the main characters, partly due to the large jumps in story time during the movie. But to me that didn't seem the case: Maquia truly developed while Ariel went through the well known crises of young adulthood. The side figures mostly where functions rather than full-fletched characters (apart from Leilia maybe). But that doesn't hurt since the characterization of the two MCs was done so well.

Enjoyment... Overall... and my judgement
Here I should state that, yes, I started writing this like 15 min or so after finishing SayoAsa. And yes, one may say that tomorrow I might give it a 9 or 8 only. Except that I won't. I have written some texts already into this review form, deleted them again and changed my mind latter, being glad I didn't take the opportunity to release my first review. But this time it is different. I seldom was so sure about how I felt towards any Anime before (considering positive feelings only, of course). I won't say this is THE Anime of 2018 or "a" masterpiece in general. To me it simply feels like one. It made me utterly happy And I hope it will do so to many others.

I'd like to preface this review by saying I went into the movie blind, not knowing anything about it and it won over my heart wholeheartedly. This movie will go in my top animes of all time, but it is not without faults.

*Warning: spoilers ahead*

Like a lot of critics mentioned, I felt the story was overly ambitious for the amount of time the movie has. In particular, I felt the battle between other nations at the climax was rushed and unresolved. The invading nations won, so what is the fate of the support cast? There is also no closure for most of the support casts ... who had long pass away by the time Maquia returned back to the village to bid her son, Ariel, farewell.

I don't think the story had bad elements per se, but just lacked the extra scenes needed to make the movie whole due to time constraints.
But this is nit-picky of me, because the main focus is on the relationship between Maquia and Ariel. Everything else serves to explore their relationship (which I wish we could have more of!).

I really think the movie is best enjoyed by people who can really empathize with others. Here, we have a 15-year-old immortal who was ripped away from her home and family, and tossed into a foreign world with nothing but a burnt cloth that serves as memoir of her home. It's absolutely devastating and the only thing that gives her purpose to move on is this orphan she picks up from a raided camp.

I'm not a woman, but I could imagine how happy she was to have someone to bond with as family. You get to see how Ariel is attached to his adoptive mom as a child, and how he grows distant in his teens. He doesn't mean to, but he said some mean things that really hurts his mom.
The raw emotions of the characters are so real that it really hurts me, and I found myself crying three times throughout the watch.

I will never forget what my literature teacher taught me: It doesn't matter whether there's a moral to the story, or if there's a specific message the author is trying to convey. What really matters is how YOU can relate to the story and characters; Losing my dad to cancer was the most traumatizing experience I've ever encountered. So hell-yes, I cherish the bond between family members, but I also know how painful partings are.

We are so caught up with everyday life that we take for granted how lucky we are to be among loved ones, and sometimes we regret how we didn't spend enough time with them when it's too late. After watching this, I want to give my mom a kiss on the cheek.

a movie that showcases how relationships mature over time in a unique way. the show prides itself on its realistic characters and their development over time and its wonderful OST that not only sounds beautiful but captures the mood and emphasizes it, as well as it's wonderful art that allows the viewer to truly understand the emotion of a character by just there expression. this heartfelt story will have you in tears by the end as it not only does what it sets out to do from the start but also does so much more an option is not left unused a story is ... not left untold and tears are not left unshed

I've never felt my heart warmed and wrenched simultaneously.

The film's gentle tone contrasted with the difficulties of solitude and societal tensions creates an experience that feels like a breath of fresh air.

Story: 8/10
I'm a sucker for plots about immortality (or a prolonged lifetime) because it's an idea that I have contemplated before many times at night. The desire to see how humanity advances, the intriguing future prospects are so tantalising - and yet, when you think about how you would go about life. The people you meet, the relationships you build and saying goodbye to those that are dear to you. It will ... make anyone feel lonely. I feel that the film has captured those emotions well, and thus delivered to the viewers in sentimental moments of the film. However, the total execution of events wasn't the cleanest, and at times the plot was somewhat difficult to follow with the time skips, and the lack of explanation of certain plot points did make me feel disconnected with the story at times.

Art: 8/10
There are very nice details in the settings and characters, and the animations are crisp and clean. I'm not very well-versed in this part but I'd say the studio did a good job with the art.

Sound: 7/10
Nothing too notable here for me, there are some nice inserts here and there and I believe the music wasn't detrimental to the experience in any way, but I wasn't particularly moved or felt that certain scenes were enhanced by the sound provided.

Characters: 8/10
Most characters are developed well enough and I never felt stale with anyone but there are some that could use some explanation, with how and why they're back in the plot, as those that were present had few details elaborated on.

Enjoyment: 9/10 + Conclusion; 8/10
Overall, I am pleased with the movie. I enjoyed the character interactions and the world the story was told in. Initially, I was going to give the film a 9/10, then after some thought a 7/10, but in the end, I didn't think it was great, nor did I think it was just good. I recommend this film - a very enjoyable experience awaits.

I've always had an affinity for stories that can bring out real, raw emotion in me, whether it be sadness, laughter, anger, etc. and Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms definitely gave me an abundance of reasons and opportunities to show my true emotions.

To give an example of what I mean, I wasn't afraid to openly cry during my first viewing of the film, because everybody else in the cinema was crying with me.

I had the privilege of initially watching Maquia on the big screen, and it truly was an experience that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

I loved the ... story before I even saw the movie, because I was so enraptured by the sheer potential that it had, that I would honestly watch the trailers several times a day, just getting caught up in the story, soundtrack, animation, etc. I did have concerns regarding the relationship between Maquia and Ariel, as there was a chance that once Ariel grew up, their relationship could take a bad turn from a storyteller's point of view, but I was pleasantly surprised and relieved by how it was handled. In general, there were many chances for the entire film to become your run-of-the-mill, cheap, boring romance movie, but the creators knew exactly what was best for the story, and they were able to stay on track for Maquia to reach its brilliant conclusion.

I fell in love with Maquia, as a character, as well as many other members of the cast. The best thing about the time-skips that take place throughout the movie is the fact that we can watch the characters develop and mature in a very smooth and realistic way. I remember crying when they cried, and smiling when they smiled, making them very relatable and easy to see the world through their eyes.

Speaking of the world of Maquia, I personally think that it was built very well. It's a well-realised setting with beautiful writing and stunning art. To me, it feels like a world from a fairytale.

Overall, I may be very biased, but I truly love this movie. I was hooked long before I even watched it, ever since I saw the trailer for the first time. It's not for everybody, but I can recommend it to anybody who's looking for a good film to get emotional over.

since i have nothing to do i think i'm going to write a review, its my first time tho so sorry if its a flop

i'm aware that this anime has been really hype currently and finally went to watch this with high expectations and somehow ended up blown away. even though the plots leap here and there, it's very certain and still manage to reveal the important point at every events, the characters development is quite good as well especially maquia and ariel, you can tell how much love and care was put into each other. and don't forget the beautifully made artwork, it blessed ... my eyes. the lightning, angles, camera, foreshadowing, everything.

i've been craving for an angst lately and this movie literally hit me there, i shed too much tears that i sobbed at the end. even though there are certain events that still confused me but it's truly a phenomenal movie that i would highly recommend this to anyone to watch before they die (:

Tonight i saw this beautiful film. It truly warmed my heart while also making me bawl like a small child. Stories where we see characters really grow up and change are favorites of mine. And stories about the bond between parents and children hit home with me personally.
The journey that Maquia and Ariel go on is a truly special story that was a joy to see. Huge props to every single cast member and crew member stateside and in Japan. This one is something else. She kept her promise alright.

This film shows such a beautiful depiction of motherhood and parentage that it becomes magical. ... Not since maybe Wolf Children have I been so taken aback by a films display of this subject. Maquia is such a fantastic mother to Ariel even not being his biological mother. Their journey is such a long stretching one bonkers to think about. But the story on whole is much larger in scale. All the politics and world machinations are fascinating to watch in how they unfold over the course of many decades.

Everything this film does is magical. It's such a marvel in its beauty.

Non-spoiler Review

Visual/Art : (8.5)

- Theres nothing much to say about the visuals or art about this movie, nothing amazing, but its still eye pleasing and attractive
- giving it 8.5 because its good but not violet evergarden good

Sound : (9)

- Sound plays a very important role in determining the quality of the anime, and it can be further broken down to 2 parts: voice acting and OSTs
... - The voice actors for each of the characters in the movie is appropriate, no characters with weird voices. The OST for the movie is brilliant, bringing out the mood and atmosphere of each setting really well

Plot : (8.5)

- No doubt a unique storyline though not totally different from other anime movies; the movie has a direction and builds up well

Characters : (9)

- The most important part and plays the biggest role in making an anime good
- Really good character development and appropriate characteristics for each of the characters, especially the main character; you get attracted to her and attached as you follow the story and her development

Coherency : (8)
- Some plotholes here and there, you have to really pay attention to understand, some terms are confusing
- Other than that the flow of the story is done well with little to no confusion

Total : 9

- This anime takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions, showing the hardships of the MC and the destiny fated to the clan of partings. My favourite quote from the movie, "Once you love someone, you'll truly be alone". This movie made me love love more, not just romance. Tear-jerking, heart-breaking, heart-mending. Beautiful movie, an artwork on a digital canvas.

Verdict : Worth the watch

This is one of those movies (animated or otherwise) that manages to draw viewers into another world, where timelines, cultures and imagery are radically different, and yet holds that magical suspension of disbelief throughout its feature length. I realize that this movie was polarising when it was released, and quite a few disgruntled reviewers have voiced their disappointment at its hype. But for this couple on a stay home date night, this animation was simply what it promised to be: magical, lyrical and hopeful, despite the melancholic thread of loneliness, war and mortality it's steeped in. Be patient, as it takes time for the characters ... to grow on you. I was particularly touched by the varied dimensions and expressions of how loneliness may take shape, unrequited love being only one form of it. Its main storyline is the biopic of a nameless infant, and the moving "village" that raised it. A definite must watch for those looking for a good story and moving music and stunning visuals that's distinct from the familiar styles of Miyazaki and Shinkai. Now I've a sudden urge to rewatch the Age of Adaline, which is about the only spoiler you'll get from this review. :)

I have to say,when I see this movie first time,I thought this wouldn't be a very great movie,because I didn't hear any informations from my friends,but this movie changed my mind sucuessfully.
This movie changed my mind and my life,
I have been a disobedient teenager for 15 years and I don't understand what are the loves from parent because my dad and my mom got divorced when I was in kindergarten after this I talk less to my family I want all of they go die,my dad brought his daughter back to Taiwan and having a meal with me I was very sad at that time ... and I keep trying to not cry,but when I went home,I told my mom and grandmother,they just talk it like a joke,I was very angry and sad about it,now I know they had the same feeling with me,so they tried to find another way to solve it,although this way hurt me hard,this movie opened my mind,I suddenly understand what are "mothers" thinking about,thanks to this movie and the guy who
recommend this movie,thanks to all of my live!

Story (9/10):
To be honest,the first half the story isn't very clear to understand if you dont watch it seriously,the begining of the story,the elder said:don't love to someone,love will make you alone.When I saw this text I supposed this will be a story about love.
and I set a challenge to myself,don't cry after I finished this movie,but I failed hard.
The story about mother's love really touch my heart.the end of the story they said sayonara to each other,Maquia couldn't keep their promise,the part of Ariel's growing up,I cried very hard.The middle of the story,Maquia said she can't be Ariel's mom and Ariel shout "mom" also touched my heart hard.
Art (9/10):
I don't really understand art,but I know the sun and the cloud mixed perfectly the scenery reflect character's heart.
Sound (8/10):
Background music starts at perfect time,story,music,and view just present this movie perfectly.
Character (9/10):
Maquia is very cute.You can understand every character's story from the movie.Its very good.
Enjoyment (10/10):
As I said this can change my life.What a amazing movie!

This is my first to write a review to anime that i watched, it triggered my emotion to write something about this beautiful anime. I am frustrated that only few watch this in my country, this deserve more attention and i like others to also enjoy this.

Spoiler*
Maquia-Sayonara no Asa ni Yakusoku no Hana wo Kazarou, is a story about how can a mother love knows no bounds. Sadness and happiness will be beside us as we live in this world, but we are NOT alone, we have a mother that will guide us to which path in life that the best for us.

the music is ... really exact in every every moment and so pleasing to hear and there are emotion.
the art looks really good, the character design, scenery is really beautiful.
the characters will dwell inside of you as they portrait what really is important as a person.

I almost cried in the cinema as i watch, i also didn't attend the first day of my class to watch this and it's really worth, i really recommend this beautiful anime to watch if its available in your country.