Story: 10/10 - I'm unfamiliar with the folk tale this is based off, with that being said, I'm not sure how far off or close the movie was with it. Either way, I enjoyed the movie for its entirety. Kaguya hime no Monogatari is not a typical princess movie based back on a very historical time period. A time where princesses married noble men as the same of an arranged marriage. Not knowing the person well, but getting hitched for the sole purpose of 'happiness.'
But Princess Kaguya is not seeking that type of happiness. She's a wild flower that blows in all different directions of the wind. Later in the movie, she begins to live in a palace her father had built for her. Just as soon as she's there, it's apparent she's unhappy. She loves to run and be free spirited.
Alas, not such happiness can be obtained, can it?
The ending is in a way controversial among Ghibli fans. At first, I was like 'that can't be it ??' But as I sat there, sitting at my computer screen, watching the credits scroll down, I realized something. This movie is unique and truly a work of art. The ending is not something you see coming, and it may leave you crying or angry. But if you just sit there like I did, and listen to the beautiful ost, you'll see the true beauty in this movie.
Art: 10/10 - At first I was hesitant and thought 'uhh, the art looks weird.' Wow was I anymore wrong. The animation is very odd to what we're used to, but nonetheless, it suits the movie very well. I can't imagine it any differently! They're very beautiful parts than just give you goosebumps. The scenery of the plants, flowers, and the sky look just like watercolor. It's very refreshing and just so admirable.
Sound: 10/10 - Another great aspect of the this movie. The osts are placed perfectly in each scene. Especially in the end. The very last 7 minutes of the movie, "Inochi no Kioku" is played. It makes you feel all the feels in the very last moments of this Studio Ghibli masterpiece.
Character: 9/10 - Throughout the entire movie, you witness Princess Kaguya's wittiness and true personality. She's a young women who's not meant for palace life. She loves to run through meadows and laugh loudly.
As for her adopted parents. Her mother remains genially humble overall. She's a gentle women. Her character is perfect. Her father on the other hand is a little dramatic at times and really wants his daughter to be happy. But he's always trying to force that happiness down her throat. I wasn't a fan of him up until the end where he mentions first holding her in his hands while crying. I couldn't help but tear up.
Enjoyment: 10/10 - From beginning to end, I loved this movie. The stunning notions of this Ghibli film is brilliant. This is not the average movie, not in the industry and not in general, but that's not a bad thing. Not by any means.
I was so excited to have seen this finally was on Kissanime! I almost immediately watched it :)
Overall: 10/10 - This is truly a hit or a miss for fans. Some will see the very beauty I see and others will only see it one way. Either way, I hope you give this a shot!
