I have high expectations when it comes to watching Anime movies. Since they do not rely on a series to back up the characters and plot, it's very difficult to create a masterpiece that combines all those elements. Wolf Children exceeded my expectations, though I still can't describe how it compares with Miyazaki movies, I will just provide a review of this movie alone. No comparisons.
Character development had been seemingly shown to be most important aspect to this movie, as time-lapses are a great indication of how attached the viewer should be to the characters and how big of a role they have to the overall plot. I really liked how much time the movie spent in a certain period of time, especially during Ame's and Yuki's childhood. It really goes to show what kind of children they were, and how their actions reflect their personality.
Reversal of roles! Without spoiling the movie, I will say this aspect of the movie was exceedingly enjoyable to watch. Though it happens in a majority of animes and movies in general, the way Wolf Children was able to indulge in it seemed completely necessary, and just added to the great story writing of this movie.
The artwork and animation is indifferent, but it doesn't bother me one bit. Usually I would like characters to be drawn with more detail to show just how different they are from one another, but the way characters in Wolf Children had been drawn shows just how minuscule detail can be to still be able to provide so much emotion and character to the characters.
But what leaves it short from receiving a perfect score for me is the ending. There could've been a multitude of ways to end this movie, and I feel like they have chosen one of the weakest. It could've had so much more potential to provide the maximum feels one could possibly acquire. Ame was mysterious and quiet, but I think it was far too stretched. Any response at all, anything that could've been displayed to illicit his feelings would've provided me with some comfort. I know some may say that his silent behavior is what his character is supposed to embrace, but it wouldn't hurt to show at least some resemblance of his father within him.
Another part was the elder wolf and man. They could've developed differently, in a way that would contribute to the storyline much more. A closer friendship should've formed between Hana and the old man. The elder wolf literally played no role to the movie, as he only served as a random animal (a good a role as the wild bear had). So much more could've been done with him, but the writers decided not to.
In conclusion:
Pros:
- Artwork/Animation
- Amazing Story, that may leave you in tears
- Wonderful music
- Dialogue/Characters are unmatched
- Great way of displaying the bigger picture
- Shows essences of environmental problems as well as social issues
- Perfect for all ages
Cons:
- A few unnecessary scenes
- Weak ending
It does live up to its ranking on this list, and I do agree that it is a must watch. Most viewers have fallen completely in love with every aspect of this movie. Everyone is going to have a different opinion though, as taste derives from other animes you've watched as well as what you look for, especially, in an anime movie. Anyway, happy feels!
