Belle (Ryū to Sobakasu no Hime), directed by Mamoru Hosoda, is one of 2021’s most memorable anime films. Hosoda, famous for movies like The Girl Who Leapt Through Time and Wolf Children, has created another beautiful story that mixes real-life issues with fantasy.
Belle is not only visually stunning but also tells a deep story about discovering who you are in a world where reality and online life blend together.
Story Summary
The story follows Suzu, a shy high school girl who once loved to sing but stopped after a painful family event. She feels out of place and unable to share her true self with others. But when she joins U, a huge digital world with millions of users, she becomes “Belle,” a confident singer with a beautiful voice. In this virtual world, Belle becomes incredibly popular, loved by everyone. However, she soon meets a strange, beast-like character called The Dragon, who carries a lot of pain. As Belle tries to understand him, the movie dives into themes of kindness, loss, and finding your true self.
Animation and Art Style
The animation in Belle is breathtaking. The virtual world of U is bright, colorful, and full of unique designs, creating a magical atmosphere. Belle’s character is especially eye-catching—her avatar is elegant, glamorous, and very different from Suzu’s appearance in real life. The movie contrasts Suzu’s ordinary world with the vibrant world of U, highlighting how she can express herself fully online, even if she feels lost in her real life.
Themes: More Than Just a Fairy Tale
Belle might be inspired by Beauty and the Beast, but it has its own message. It explores deep themes like self-acceptance, dealing with loss, and understanding others. Suzu’s journey shows the struggles many people feel today—being shy, facing trauma, and finding freedom in digital spaces. The movie also explores the difference between how we act online versus in real life. Belle’s attempts to connect with The Dragon show a deep need to understand and help others, even when they are going through tough times.
Soundtrack: Music That Moves You
The music in Belle is unforgettable. The songs are powerful and match the emotional moments of the movie perfectly. Songs like “U” and “A Million Miles Away” stay with you long after the movie is over, expressing Suzu’s feelings and growth. The soundtrack adds an emotional layer to the story, making you feel connected to Suzu’s journey.
My Opinion
The Movie was a wonderful experience. The story felt both magical and real, especially because it shows how people can express themselves online in ways they might not in real life. Suzu’s transformation from a quiet girl to a strong singer through Belle was inspiring, and it reminded me of how the internet can be a safe space for people who feel lonely.
The relationship between Belle and The Dragon was another strong point. It wasn’t a typical love story but more about understanding each other. Suzu’s bravery in reaching out to someone others don’t understand really hit home. It showed how true courage often means showing kindness.
If there’s any minor downside, it’s that the movie tries to cover a lot of big topics, like mental health, family issues, and internet culture. At times, it feels like there’s a lot happening. But overall, it doesn’t take away from the movie’s message or beauty.
