Director: Mizuho Nishikubo
102 minutes, Japan, 2014, Animation/Drama, Age Recommended: 9+
This film screened on Sunday 26th April 2015.
Fans of Japanese anime will be familiar with the genre’s range of stories, including darker tales of war such as this one. Kanta and Junpei are brothers who enjoy a happy childhood on the island of Shikotan until the end of the Second World War when, one day, the island’s borders are altered and Shikotan becomes Russian territory. Russian occupation begins and with new occupants comes Tanya – daughter of the Russian commander.
Inspired by real-life events, this is a beautiful depiction of a childhood friendship which must overcome the obstacles of language, culture and history to survive.
Tickets: €4.80 per person, €14.40 family ticket (2 adults + 2 children/1 adult + 3 children)