From Up on Poppy Hill

In 1963 Yokohama, a high school student named Umi Matsuzaki struggles to run her household while her mother is away studying abroad. She finds an unlikely ally in Shun Kazama, a fellow student and member of the school's journalism club, as they work together to save their school's dilapidated clubhouse from demolition. Amidst their efforts, a mystery surrounding their past connections begins to unravel, testing their budding relationship.

From Up on Poppy Hill was met with generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its nostalgic atmosphere, beautiful animation, and heartfelt storytelling. While some found the plot slightly convoluted, the film was widely appreciated for its gentle portrayal of youth and enduring themes of memory and connection.

• Praised for its exquisite animation and nostalgic depiction of post-war Japan.
• Applauded for its mature and sensitive exploration of adolescent relationships.
• Often noted for its touching, albeit sometimes slow-paced, narrative.

Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the film's beautiful artwork and its ability to evoke a strong sense of nostalgia and emotional resonance. Many viewers appreciated the subtle character development and the touching, albeit melancholic, story of young love and remembrance.

Nominated for Best Animated Feature at the 39th Annie Awards. Won Best Animation at the 67th Mainichi Film Awards.

The film is based on a manga of the same name by Tetsuo Sayama and Chizuru Takahashi, which was serialized from 1975 to 1980.