From Up on Poppy Hill
Overview
Yokohama, 1963. Japan is picking itself up from the devastation of World War II and preparing to host the 1964 Olympics—and the mood is one of both optimism and conflict as the young generation struggles to throw off the shackles of a troubled past. Against this backdrop of hope and change, a friendship begins to blossom between high school students Umi and Shun—but a buried secret from their past emerges to cast a shadow on the future and pull them apart.
Backdrop
What makes this movie Worth Watching
The film is set in Yokohama, Japan, in 1963, a time of great economic and social change as the country prepared to host the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. The story reflects the tension between preserving traditional values and embracing modernization, a prevalent sentiment during that era.
- Beautifully animated in classic Studio Ghibli style, offering stunning visuals of Yokohama and the surrounding landscape.
- Features a heartwarming and engaging story about youth, tradition, and overcoming challenges.
- Explores themes of historical preservation, family ties, and the power of collective action.
- Has a memorable soundtrack that perfectly complements the film's nostalgic and romantic atmosphere.
Fun Facts
- The film is based on a 1980 manga of the same name by Tetsuro Sayama and Chizuru Takahashi.
- Hayao Miyazaki wrote the screenplay, while his son Goro Miyazaki directed the film. This marked a significant collaborative effort within Studio Ghibli.
- Keep an eye out for subtle details referencing Japan's maritime history in the port city of Yokohama.