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The Tale of The Princess Kaguya
かぐや姫の物語
2013 137 min Japan PG 6+
★8.7
Animation, Drama, Fantasy
Director: Isao Takahata
🎭 Based on
«The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter»
Trailers
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Teaser
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Description
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.
Budget:
$49.3M
US Gross:
$974,913
Worldwide:
$24.37M
Starring
Chloë Grace Moretz
Actor
James Caan
Actor
Mary Steenburgen
Actor
Awards
Academy Awards 2015
— Best Animated Feature
Key opinion
Isao Takahata’s final masterpiece is a visually distinct, hand-drawn adaptation of an ancient Japanese folktale that explores profound themes of identity and human experience. While universally lauded for its artistic rigor and emotional depth, its minimalist aesthetic and contemplative pacing divide audiences accustomed to mainstream animation.
| Production | The film's hand-drawn, watercolor-inspired aesthetic creates a unique, painterly visual experience that sets it apart from contemporary anime. | |
| Score | Joe Hisaishi’s score and songs integrate seamlessly with the visuals to evoke a deeply moving, mystical atmosphere. | |
| Adaptation | The narrative remains exceptionally faithful to the ancient 'Tale of the Bamboo Cutter' while elevating it with sophisticated philosophical exploration. | |
| Theme | The film functions as a nuanced meditation on the conflict between authentic self-discovery and the suffocating expectations of status and parental ambition. | |
| Production | The minimalist, sketch-like animation style is seen by many as a breathtaking artistic choice, while some viewers find it unengaging or 'pallid.' | |
| Pacing | The contemplative, slow-moving pace rewards viewers seeking a meditative experience, but leads others to find the narrative tedious or boring. |