Review of The Wind Rises (2013) by Nicholasbert — 12 May 2014

The animation is pure Miyazaki, but the story isn't. We don't get any of the magic of Spirited Away nor the epics of Princess Mononoke - still, what we get is perhaps another strong statement about how animated films are not only meant for children (which is something already well assessed in Japan).

The visuals are incredible as always, more beautiful than any CGI could create, but we're sort of left questioning ourselves why Miyazaki has chosen for his last film such a radical change of direction as regarding themes. Nevertheless, turning a figure like the protagonist's (he could look like a war criminal to many) into a dreamer who "only wanted to create something beautiful" is a bold move, and at least it has purpose. Don't forget that Miyazaki's previous themes (environment, communion with nature, and, especially in Howl's Moving Castle, hatred for war) should act as a deterrent for those who think this movie glorifies war. At most it glorifies Japan.

I'm just sad this was a swansong. Let's hope he thinks twice and gets back to drawing. Meanwhile, we've got his son, whose From Up on Poppy Hill is really on the same page as The Wind Rises.