You simply cannot ignore “Mezame no Hakobune”, its power is almost unreal. This CGI animation will pull you from within the depths of the ocean (SHO-HO), as you swam with whales and sharks and rays, lifting you then, leading through a surreal stream of consciousness. Transpiring widely across the skies (HYAKKIN), will acknowledge you as you watch, through the eyes of the seagulls, the land from above. In a more somewhat melancholic, yet enlightened finale (KU-UN), you might question, and wisely doing so, the very origin of life; the genetic roots from humans to dogs.
Oshii Mamoru-san is the director, do I guess that’s everything needed to be said. The soundtrack might surprise you, because this is a well-known and superb collaboration, being Kawai Kenji-san classical suspect behind the score; you Ghost in the Shell aficionados are in for a pleasant surprise, it is honestly perfect.
Lastly, I have to say that “Mezame no Hakobune” is ultimately a triumphal piece of art; to tell a story with simply images and music is overwhelmingly beautiful, and this one in particular speaks directly to our hearts.
