From Up on Poppy Hill｜Anime

2024.11.05

From Up on Poppy Hill is a Japanese animated film produced by Studio Ghibli and released in 2011. It was directed by Goro Miyazaki and based on a manga by Chizuru Takahashi and Tetsuro Sayama, which was serialized in 1980. This is the second film directed by Goro Miyazaki, and the screenplay was written by his father, Hayao Miyazaki. Along with the beautiful images of the animation, this coming-of-age drama set in Yokohama, Japan in the 1960s has been loved by many audiences.

Synopsis

The story takes place in Yokohama in 1963. The main character, Umi Matsuzaki, lost her father in the war and is busy supporting her family while her mother is overseas. One day she meets Shun Kazama, who runs the school’s newspaper club, and together they struggle to save the historic clubhouse. Their friendship eventually develops into love, but it is revealed that their relationship hides a secret.

From Up on Poppy Hill | Recommendations

From Up on Poppy Hill” is set against the backdrop of Japan’s reconstruction period in the 1960s and depicts traditional Japanese values and the hopes of young people for the future. The film’s charm lies in its beautifully detailed background depiction and its music, which evokes a nostalgic atmosphere. Also moving is the careful depiction of the relationship between the sea and Shun, and the theme of the bond between family and friends. The students’ stand to protect the historical buildings will resonate with contemporary viewers as well.

Furthermore, this film is one of the Ghibli productions that represent Japan’s animation culture and skillfully expresses the small emotions and dramas that exist in everyday life. As an opportunity to experience Japanese history and culture, this is a film that Anime fans should not miss.