L'Île de Giovanni

This absolutely disarming anime film lays out before the viewer a moving story that begins with the end of the war and the Russian occupation of a small island formerly belonging to Japan. The whole situation is conceived from the perspective of two young brothers. The boys establish a friendship with the daughter of a Russian officer, but they perceive the darker side of the occupation through their father, who supplies the island’s inhabitants with food from the hidden reserves left behind by conscripted Japanese soldiers, and their uncle, who smuggles scarce goods to the island. The film is also a great tribute to Kenji Miyazawa’s classic children’s book Night on the Galactic Railroad, which both brothers love and which is the only firm fixture in their lives. The film shows the children’s imagination stimulated by the book not in a kitschy way, but as an essential part of childhood that enables us to accept a difficult reality. (20/03/2014)

I have to admit, it's definitely got something to it. It describes post-war events that aren't widely known – basically the occupation of Japanese (?) territory by the Russians. While the story is clear and easy to read, so you absolutely know what you're in for, it still has its strong moments. I like how the film depicts a child's coming to terms with the future and suffering, especially how the motif of Mizoguchi Kenji's storybook is used – these scenes were also very well done. At times I felt like the film would never end and I kept waiting for something "hurr durr", but it is all pasted together from everyday moments, both humorous and dramatic (although given the time period in which it takes place I was expecting more shooting and "action"). It’s sad, but it can’t come close to Grave of the Fireflies. A weaker 4 stars. (07/11/2014)