by James “Magic” Perkins
When the past still haunts you, but the future isn’t certain – will you lock the door to protect the world? Legendary Japanese auteur Makoto Shinkai dazzles audiences once again in his latest breathtaking coming-of-age meets fantasy masterpiece, Suzume.
Suzume, a young 17-year-old girl who lives in Kyushu with her auntie, has regular dreams of searching for her mum as a child – something she has done for years ever since her mum tragically passed away. The next morning, she has a chance to meet with a mysterious man named Sōta, who is searching for some old ruins. The ever-curious Suzume follows him to these ruins to discover a door standing alone and uncovers the secrets of the Daijin and a giant worm-like creature that breaks through these doors and threatens to destroy the earth. Suzume and her new friend Sōta must venture across Japan to lock these doors, keep the worm at bay and remember that although the past holds tragedy and despair, the future is hopeful and shaped by those moments we encounter along the journey of life.
Shinkai-san is now a worldwide household name and has once again shown how powerful his words translate to the gorgeous spectacle of animation. Drawing real-life inspiration from the horrific Tsunami of 2011 that devastated the East of Japan and turning that into a story full of hope, love, and affirmation of that which comes from the bad comes the good. This message transcends the barrier that is often present in Eastern film narratives.
The incomparable RADWIMPS once again provide another iconic soundtrack that elevates Shinkai-san’s piece to celebrated status, and the whole film proves that Makoto Shinkai does not miss. This is a masterpiece, as is the case with his entire catalogue.
Suzume is in UK cinemas on April 14th.
