When she was young, Hotaru was once lost when she played in the forest near her uncle’s place that she visits every summer. There, she had a fateful encounter with a spirit, Gin, who helped her even though he would disappear if a human touches him. She began to visit him every summer, even as she grows; while he waits for the summer to come, for their time together to flow again.
Story:10
The plot was really great. At first, I find it cute-- Hotaru getting lost and all and Gin finding her. The first question that came into my mind was "How can this possibly end?" As I continued to watch it, I wondered if it has a good ending. All in all, there are no scenes that got me bored. I was hooked immediately as I started watching it.
Art: 9
The art was really something. Not that detailed, but not that rushed and shabby either. It was light to the eyes, there's no irritating colors. The characters.. I find them simple yet very well-drawn (appropriate for the year it was drawn).
Sound: 10
The background music was really helpful. Even from the beginning of the movie. It helps you cope up with the situation -- if it's sad, if it's funny, etc. The sound was well chosen and it helped me relaxed all throughout the movie. The chosen musics were solemn, yet matches the scenes very well.
Characters: 10
I find their characteristics good and well matched for the both of them (Hotaru and Gin). Though Gin's past wasn't really given any deep clarifications and attention, what you will know is clearly enough for you to be hooked and to be able to love of who he is. I think Gin's mysteriousness is what makes Gin. For Hotaru, her characteristic and attitude, really suits her --cheerful and hyper, a total opposite of Gin. But that makes them look good for each other, isn't it?
Enjoyment: 10
Aside for the plot, I find their romance cute hihi I really find Hotaru and Gin good for each other, I'm totally rooting for them. In fact, There wasn't really any moment/scene that I got bored. So I rated it 10 for outstanding. I enjoyed every minute of it!
Overall:10
From the beginning up to the ending, there were no regrets watching this movie. Though it has given me so much to cry on.. still, it's really a good anime. I'm very well pleased if you watch this, I really recommend this! Though the anime is just less than an hour, the anime is satisfying and very well written. The plot is really great, the art is so nice. And if you're looking for some tragedy anime.. "Hotarubi no Mori e" is suited for that. A heartwarming, heartbreaking story. So much for bittersweet.
