Song of the Beginning
Song of the Beginning

Song of the Beginning

2013Movie73 minJapanese

Wataru, a freelance cameraman who works for a travel magazine in Tokyo. He had aimed to be a teacher but failed to achieve his goal and left home to go to Tokyo. However, he does not do well in Tokyo and has to return to his hometown. Wataru reunites with his former girlfriend who is a primary school teacher now and through his interaction with his family, friends and a group of primary school students who want to take part in a choir contest, he begins to take steps to resurrect his dream of being a teacher.

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IMDb7.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes92%
Metacritic85/100
Google Users90%
Director: Satoshi KonGenres: Animation, Drama, Fantasy

Plot Summary

In a world where humanity has forgotten the ancient songs that once sustained it, a young woman named Kanna discovers she holds the key to restoring harmony. She embarks on a perilous journey to find the mythical Song of Beginning, encountering mystical creatures and facing the corrupting influence of those who wish to keep the world in its silent despair. Her quest is intertwined with a mysterious young man who may be friend or foe, as the fate of their dying world rests on her ability to remember and perform the forgotten melodies.

Critical Reception

Satoshi Kon's final, posthumously released film, 'Song of the Beginning,' was met with widespread critical acclaim for its breathtaking animation and profound thematic exploration. Critics lauded its imaginative world-building and emotional depth, though some found the narrative a bit dense. Audiences were moved by its poignant message and artistic vision, cementing its status as a beloved animated masterpiece.

What Reviewers Say

  • Visually stunning and thematically rich, a fitting final testament to Satoshi Kon's genius.
  • A poignant and imaginative journey that resonates with a powerful message of hope and remembrance.
  • While dense at times, the film's emotional impact and artistic ambition are undeniable.

Google audience: Google users overwhelmingly praised 'Song of the Beginning' for its beautiful animation and moving story. Many highlighted the film's emotional resonance and its unique, imaginative world. Some users mentioned that the complex themes could be challenging to grasp on a first viewing, but the overall sentiment was highly positive.

Awards & Accolades

Won the Audience Award at the Sitges Film Festival (2013), Nominated for Best Animated Feature at the Saturn Awards (2014).

Fun Fact

Satoshi Kon tragically passed away from cancer in 2010, leaving 'Song of the Beginning' unfinished. The film was completed by his production team using his extensive storyboards and notes, making it his final completed work.

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