A great movie
I was conflicted with this one, had to watch it in a couple of sittings, the pacing was so slow. But I'm glad I stuck with it. No one can portray a dejected child in anime as well as Takahata! (see also Grave of the Fireflies). Found myself cursing at the heartless mother and sisters, and wanting to leap into the screen to give Takeo a big big hug - related so much to her energy. I had that as a child, boundless enthusiasm that was often put down. No doubt I was a precocious brat too, but the adult me (37) looks back with a fondness for the young me constantly asking 'why' and railing against seemingly aloof distant parents.
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