Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms

In the land of the Lhings, people live unchanging lives, weaving history into their cloaks. Maquia, a young girl from this isolated clan, is forced to flee her home when the kingdom's army invades, seeking a legendary creature to preserve her clan's existence. Separated from her people and her clan's eternal youth, she finds an abandoned human baby and decides to raise him, embarking on a journey of motherhood through the passage of time. As her son grows and seeks his own identity, Maquia must confront the joys and sorrows of a love that transcends their differing lifespans.

Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms was met with widespread critical acclaim, praised for its stunning animation, emotional depth, and poignant exploration of themes like motherhood, loss, and the passage of time. It resonated with both critics and audiences, becoming a beloved entry in the fantasy animation genre.

• A visually breathtaking and emotionally resonant story about motherhood and mortality.
• Mari Okada's directorial debut is a masterpiece of animation and heartfelt storytelling.
• The film masterfully balances its fantastical elements with a deeply human and relatable narrative.

Google audience: Viewers lauded the film for its beautiful animation and deeply moving story, particularly appreciating the emotional portrayal of a mother-son relationship that spans across vastly different lifespans. Many highlighted the film's ability to evoke strong emotions and leave a lasting impact.

Winner of the Audience Award at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, Best Animated Feature at the Mainichi Film Awards, and nominated for Best Animated Film at the 45th Annie Awards.

This film marked the directorial debut of acclaimed screenwriter Mari Okada, known for her work on series like 'Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day' and 'The Anthem of the Heart'.