When Marnie Was There shows Studio Ghibli’s talent for creating emotionally rich and visually stunning films. It’s a story that speaks to the heart, exploring themes of loneliness, friendship, and self-discovery with great sensitivity. Its enchanting story and stunning animation make it a memorable watch.
Story Summary
The movie follows Anna Sasaki, a shy 12-year-old girl living in Sapporo with her foster parents, Yoriko and her husband. Anna feels lonely and believes she is different from everyone else. After an asthma attack at school, Anna’s doctor suggests she spend the summer in the countryside. So, Anna goes to stay with Yoriko’s relatives, Setsu and Kiyomasa Oiwa, in the quiet seaside town of Kissakibetsu.
In the new town, Anna discovers an old, abandoned mansion across a salt marsh. She is drawn to the mansion and meets Marnie, a mysterious blonde girl. The two girls become friends and have many secret adventures together. As their friendship grows, Anna learns about Marnie’s sad past and discovers surprising connections between their lives, leading to an important revelation about who she is.
Animation and Music
As always Studio Ghibli’s animation is amazing in this film. The beautiful hand-drawn scenes of the marshes and the old mansion create a magical atmosphere that fits the story perfectly. The music by Takatsugu Muramatsu is haunting and beautiful, adding to the emotional depth of the film.
Characters
Anna’s character is well-developed. Her journey from being a lonely, troubled girl to finding peace and connection is shown with great care. Marnie, with her mysterious and sad background, helps Anna understand herself better. The other characters, like the kind Setsu and the wise Hisako, add more depth to the story and support Anna’s journey.
Themes and Messages
The film show you about loneliness, identity, and the search for belonging. Anna’s feelings of being an outsider are easy to relate to and show the common struggle of finding where we fit in. Marnie’s sad story of being neglected and losing loved ones contrasts with Anna’s journey and shows the importance of understanding and accepting our past.
Personal Opinion
I found it to be a deeply touching and thoughtful film. It handles complex emotions and relationships in a simple yet powerful way. The friendship between Anna and Marnie is portrayed with such warmth and magic that it feels real. The story’s pacing is perfect, keeping you engaged and emotionally connected to Anna’s journey.
The revelation of Anna’s true connection to Marnie is beautifully done and leaves a lasting impression. It’s a story that resonates on many levels, making you reflect on your own relationships and the importance of knowing your history. The film’s ending, where Anna finds closure and calls Yoriko mother for the first time, is heartwarming and a beautiful conclusion to her struggles.
