The Place Promised in Our Early Days
In a post-war alternative timeline, Japan is divided into the North, controlled by the Union, and the South, controlled by the United States. A mysterious high tower rises within the borders of the Union. Three high school students promise to cross the border with a self-built airplane and unravel the secret of the tower.
Insights
Plot Summary
In an alternate post-war Japan, the island of Ezo (Hokkaido) is occupied by a mysterious tower that reaches into the stratosphere. Three teenagers, Hiroki, Takuya, and Sayuri, make a promise to each other to fly a plane to the tower. As their lives diverge and a mysterious sleeping sickness affects Sayuri, the fate of their promise and the world becomes intertwined.
Critical Reception
The Place Promised in Our Early Days was Makoto Shinkai's first feature-length directorial debut, earning critical praise for its stunning visuals, emotional depth, and ambitious storytelling, despite its limited release. It established Shinkai as a notable talent in anime filmmaking.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its breathtaking animation and artistic direction.
- Applauded for its mature and poignant exploration of love, loss, and adolescence.
- Noted for its complex narrative that blends science fiction with heartfelt drama.
Google audience: Google users largely praise the film's beautiful animation and emotional narrative, with many highlighting its touching story of friendship and first love.
Awards & Accolades
Mainichi Film Award for Best Animated Film.
Fun Fact
Makoto Shinkai single-handedly created almost all of the animation, storyboards, direction, and background art for this film, working mostly alone in his home.
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