watch later

Not interested / seen

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.

Comments

What did you think? Who should watch it?

Next up

Riceboy Sleeps (2022)

best

8.6

An immigrant tale that is as beautiful as it is heartbreaking

Mystery Train (1989)

6.7

Memphis, Tennessee (and Elvis Presley) are enough to draw three unexpected stories towards a run-down flophouse

Papicha (2019)

best

8.3

With fashion as their defiance, Papicha boldly unveils the resilience of women against the backdrop of an oppressive society

The Hole (1998)

7.7

In a world where reality crumbles, a water shortage sets the stage for an unforgettable cinematic journey

Mary Is Happy, Mary Is Happy (2013)

best

8.5

An absurd and endlessly creative coming-of-age story that finds profound meaning in the mess of youth

My Own Private Idaho (1991)

best

8.5

A modern Shakespeare adaptation turned essential road movie about two gay hustlers

Rouge (1987)

best

8.4

A vivid, stunning gothic romance in Hong Kong, torn across decades

The Blue Caftan (2022)

best

8.0

A delicate and moving portrait of pure love

Die Beautiful (2016)

best

8.1

A poignant and heartwarming Filipino film that celebrates the transformative power of authenticity and resilience

From Up on Poppy Hill (2011)

7.5

A nostalgic yet subtle portrait of 1960s Japan from the famed children’s animation studio

Curated by humans, not algorithms.

agmtw

© 2023 agoodmovietowatch. Altona Studio, LLC, all rights reserved.