Gedo senki, 2006

As a fan of Studio Ghibli, I was eager to see this film, even though I had heard mixed reactions. I finally got a hold of it, and although I am glad I saw it, it left me cold. Many criticize this film for not being up to par with Hayao Miyazaki's work, but I will review his son, Goro's film without comparing it to the previous Ghibli films. I will say that this film is visually stunning. The people, dragons, cities and fields are exceptionally drawn and realized. The story, however, is a confused mess. The first half of the film seems to be about the balance of nature and how this is maintained by the relationship between humans and dragons. The story then changes directions and becomes a tale about the dangers of immortality. The dragons and what they symbolize are pretty much forgotten, and we then are given themes and outcomes that are too simple and familiar. It also doesn't help that the hero, a young prince named Arren, is not particularly sympathetic. At the very beginning, he inexplicably murders his father, and then sulks throughout the rest of the film, trying to figure out who he is and what is role is in life. The female heroes, who are often the life force for most Ghibli stories, are not particularly interesting either. Therru is a young, scarred girl who most people think is a witch. Why, I'm not so sure. Turns out she was actually abused and abandoned by her parents. This film is really not in support of parental treatment. While I enjoyed this film as a visual treat, I was let down by its bland heroes, familiar subject matter, and unfocused plotline. I think Goro Miyazaki does have a future as a director, if he achieves the greatness of his father is yet to be seen. As far as his debut is considered, it is a beautiful and ambitious disappointment.

What did you think about this review?

Thank you for voting.

Like Dislike

Abuse report sent

Report abuse