Grave of the fireflies

I watched an animated movie titled "Grave of the fireflies" together with my sister this evening on her laptop. It was a 1988 japanese animation which spoke of a heartwarming tale about two japanese orphaned siblings who had to cope with the harsh life during the 2nd world war. It was really an emotional and poignant film which at times moved me to tears. Couldn't help it, the movie was just so freaking sad. Had a hard time trying to conceal my sadness from my sister..didn't want her to mock at me you know.

The movie basically focuses on the lives of the two protagonists - a teenage boy and a four year old sister who became orphans after their mum was killed in a bomb raid in Kobe. Together they strived to survive on the war streets amid widespread famine and the callous indifference of their fellow countrymen. Yet, harsh circumstances eventually took their toll on them and they finally succumbed to malnutritution and death.

The movie is in fact based on a semi-autobiograhic novel of a real japanese who survived the war but lost her beloved sister to starvation. He wrote the novel in order to alleviate his pains and also to make his amends for his sister. It just goes to show that life can be fragile and how a senseless war can cause the sufferings of so many innocent individuals. And with the North Korea issue making the headlines every so often, who knows when the next war will commence and claim the lives of many.

A really touching movie. So powerful to the point i blog about it.