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The Tale of Princess Kaguya (2013)The Tale of Princess Kaguya (2013)

The Tale of Princess Kaguya (2013)

An exquisite historical fantasy turned coming-of-age film about a magical moon princess found in a bamboo stalk

Animation, Drama, Fantasy

best
THE VERY BEST

9.3

movie

Japan
Japanese
Dramatic, Emotional, Lovely
2013
Isao Takahata
Aki Asakura, Atsuko Takahata, Isao Hashizume
137 min

Synopsis

rotten tomatoes
imdb
wikipedia
Found inside a shining stalk of bamboo by an old bamboo cutter and his wife, a tiny girl grows rapidly into an exquisite young lady. The mysterious young princess enthrals all who encounter her. But, ultimately, she must confront her fate.

Our Take

9.3
Isabella Endrinal

Based on a classic Japanese folktale, Isao Takahata’s last film will break your heart. This adaptation, of course, follows Princess Kaguya from her being discovered in a glowing bamboo stalk to her departure to the moon. However, while faithful to the original tale, Takahata’s direction turns this historical fantasy into a heart-wrenching coming-of-age film as ethereal as the titular character. The film doesn’t focus on the crazy pursuit of her suitors; instead, we’re drawn to the simple experiences Kaguya herself is drawn to and wants more of, as she tries to balance her life with the societal expectations places on women. All of which is rendered through the film’s lush watercolored scenes of the blowing wind or the opening of plum blossoms.

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