A New Chapter in Anime Cinema
Makoto Shinkai is a name that rings a bell in the hearts of anime enthusiasts worldwide. Known for his keen eye for detail and intricate storytelling, Shinkai has given us gems like Your Name, Weathering With You, and 5 Centimeters per Second. So when the buzz started about his latest project, Suzume no Tojimari, or simply Suzume in English, fans were naturally thrilled.
“Makoto Shinkai is considered one of the greatest anime directors of all time… Shinkai has given us incredible films such as Your Name, Weathering With You, and 5 Centimeters per Second.”
The Inspiration Behind ‘Suzume’
The anime maestro found his muse while touring Japan for his previous works. Distressed by the sight of empty locations and abandoned places resulting from Japan’s aging population and declining birth rate, Shinkai conceived the idea for Suzume. The film morphed into what he calls a story about “mourning deserted places,” essentially turning into a road movie that explores nostalgia and abandonment.
When and Where to Catch ‘Suzume’ Again
Released initially in Japan in 2022 and later making its U.S. debut in April 2023, Suzume is about to re-enter North American theaters. It will be screened in over 200 theaters starting October 27, 2023, available both in Japanese subtitles and English dubbing.
“On February 23, 2023, the movie had its world premiere in competition at the 73rd Berlin International Film Festival, the first time an anime movie had participated in the festival since Spirited Away in 2002.”
Trailers Unveil the Shinkai Magic
If you have seen the trailers for Suzume, you know that they exude Shinkai’s signature style. The colors are as radiant and engaging as ever, reminiscent of his previous works. The trailers not only offer a peek into the artistry but also into the intriguing plot.
The Voices Behind the Characters
Newcomers Nanoka Hara and Hokuto Matsumura lend their voices to the protagonists Suzume and Sota, respectively. The casting was rigorous, with Shinkai choosing Hara from an audition that saw more than 1,700 applicants. Even seasoned actors like Eri Fukatsu and Rynosuke Kamiki have joined the stellar cast.
“Suzume and Sota are Hara and Matsumura’s first anime voice-acting roles. Other cast members include Eri Fukatsu, Shota Sometani, Sairi Ito, Kotone Hanase, Kana Hanazawa, and Matsumoto Hakuō II.”
The Intriguing Tale of ‘Suzume’
The story follows Suzume, a high school girl who pairs up with Sota, a “Closer” hunting mystical doors in deserted locations across Japan. These doors are not just magical but malevolent, wreaking havoc wherever they open. Suzume and Sota, along with a magical cat and an array of intricate characters, embark on a journey to shut these doors and prevent an impending catastrophe.
“Suzume no Tojimari is a coming-of-age story for the 17-year-old protagonist, Suzume, set in various disaster-stricken locations across Japan, where she must close the doors causing devastation.”
Meet the Team Behind ‘Suzume’
Shinkai, of course, serves as the writer and director. The rest of the production team is equally talented, with Masayoshi Tanaka handling character design and Radwimps providing the score. Crunchyroll, Sony Pictures, and Wild Bunch International are managing the film’s global distribution, setting high expectations for Suzume‘s global impact.
A Brief Guide to Makoto Shinkai’s Filmography
If Suzume piques your interest and you’re looking to explore more of Shinkai’s repertoire, his earlier works like Your Name and Weathering With You are excellent starting points. These films also delve into complex characters and intricate plot lines, offering a visual and emotional feast.
Your Next Anime Adventure Awaits
There’s something inherently magical about how Makoto Shinkai crafts his narratives. Whether you’re new to his work or a longtime fan, Suzume is not just a film—it’s an experience. So mark your calendars for its re-release and prepare to be enchanted once again by the maestro of modern anime cinema.
