Anime’s Hidden Gems: Top 5 Must-See Movies According to Roger Ebert

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Roger Ebert lamented that American viewers didn’t seem to appreciate anime as much as audiences in other regions. In a piece he penned, he underscored the significance of this genre. Ebert acknowledged that it wasn’t the fault of Americans, but their exposure had typically been limited to “Disney-like” movies or cartoons with anthropomorphic animals and dancing teacups. However, Ebert encouraged everyone to expand their horizons, as animation is not confined to these themes alone – it encompasses a broader artistic spectrum.

As an ardent movie critic, I’ve come to appreciate the unique and expansive world of anime. Unlike traditional cinema, anime offers a fascinating blend of diverse production styles and tackles a broader spectrum of themes. The fascination with this medium continues to surge, and it’s no wonder why – there are approximately 430 animation studios in Japan alone!

However, the esteemed Roger Ebert, while renowned for his discerning eye, seemed to approach anime with a stricter lens. Perhaps he simply didn’t have the opportunity to delve into as many anime productions as he would have liked, given his demanding schedule. Nonetheless, I encourage everyone to explore this captivating realm of animation and form their own opinions.

Throughout his life, the Chicago Sun-Times columnist endorsed just five anime films, a relatively small number compared to other genres. However, these choices were exceptional and had the power to captivate viewers, whether they were casual or devoted fans of anime.

5
‘My Neighbor Totoro’ (1988)

Ebert’s score: 4/4

The story revolves around two sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who relocate to rural Japan alongside their father to be near their unwell mother. While exploring the forest, Mei stumbles upon friendly entities, among them the gigantic and benevolent Totoro. Later, Satsuki also encounters Totoro. Initially perplexed by these discoveries, the children eventually find joy as they embark on a sequence of enchanting adventures with Totoro.

Such is their fame, these two characters often appear in renowned anime films beyond their original work. Moreover, Totoro functions as a mascot for Studio Ghibli.

Life’s Simple Joys

Roger Ebert commended the film for its uniqueness, noting it was “developed from personal experiences, circumstances, and investigations rather than conflicts and dangers.” He further stated, “It is a bit melancholic, a bit terrifying, a bit unexpected, and a bit instructive, much like real life. Instead of relying on a storyline, it relies on a situation, implying that the beauty of existence and the power of imagination provide all the excitement you require.

Hayao Miyazaki, as a director, excels at extracting depth from ordinary situations rather than complex predicaments. Furthermore, the anime’s profound examination of animism, environmentalism, and Shinto symbolism invites viewers to reconsider life perspectives, while the dialogue deepens their affection for the characters. It’s no wonder that this masterpiece was honored with the Kinema Junpo Award for Best Film in 1988.

4
‘Princess Mononoke’ (1997)

Ebert’s score: 4/4

In the animated film, “Princess Mononoke”, we find the character Ashitaka, a young warrior, embarking on a journey into the forest to find a cure for his cursed arm, an affliction he received while defending his village from a demon. As fate would have it, he becomes entangled in a dispute between Iron Town, governed by Lady Eboshi, and the nature deities who fiercely guard their forest realm. One of these defenders is San, a girl brought up by wolves and now known as Princess Mononoke.

Hayao Miyazaki conceived the concept for his idea as far back as 1980, following the release of his first film, “The Castle of Cagliostro.” The plot was inspired to some extent by the French fairy tale “Beauty and the Beast,” penned by Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve.

Protecting Nature

As a movie enthusiast, this film offers an up-close, seemingly authentic depiction of the clash between industry and environment. While it may have its share of creature antics, the camaraderie is abundant and palpable – you can almost taste the forest air! The blend of fantastical elements with the jidaigeki style gives the entire production a richer, more captivating feel. Moreover, the characters are portrayed in a feminist light, which only strengthens the film’s advocacy message. In essence, it’s a tantalizing, inspiring adventure that is perfect for family viewing.

Roger Ebert highly endorsed the movie for an Academy Award nomination, yet it never received one. He admired every aspect of it, emphasizing that Princess Mononoke is not a straightforward good-vs-evil story, but rather portrays how humans, forest creatures, and nature deities all struggle for their place in the evolving world order.

3
‘Only Yesterday’ (1991)

Ebert’s score: 4/4

In a nutshell, the movie Only Yesterday follows Taeko (played by Miki Imai), a 27-year-old Tokyo office worker, as she escapes the city hustle for a peaceful countryside retreat. During her stay, she assists with the safflower harvest while reminiscing about her colorful childhood in 1960s Japan. The narrative moves between the present and the past, delving into Taeko’s school days, family turmoil, and teenage escapades. We, as viewers, also gain insight into how her younger self has shaped her adult decisions. Furthermore, as she builds a bond with a local farmer, Taeko begins to reconsider her life choices.

The anime shares its title with a manga penned by Hotaru Okamoto, and while many elements are unique, the events taking place in 1966 featuring ten-year-old Taeko are derived from the original work.

Challenges That Come with Age

Isao Takahata, the director, has created profound animations with a unique artistic touch, but this film stands as an indispensable, emotional masterpiece within his body of work. The movie showcases intricate visual designs, impeccable sound quality, and an unerring focus on detail, providing a vibrant depiction of everyday life in both rural and urban Japan. The monotonous tasks and the character struggles portrayed on screen underscore the hardships of daily existence and the shock of unforeseen events. Ahead of its time with its multi-layered themes, the narrative also functions as a subtle moral lesson.

Ebert highly commended the movie “Only Yesterday” as a heartfelt, wistful contemplation of one woman’s life. He was particularly moved by how director Takahata skillfully employed tranquility, quietness, and a prolonged pause during an early scene where the young girl recognizes that the boy she admires reciprocates her feelings.

2
‘Kiki’s Delivery Service’ (1989)

Ebert’s score: Two thumbs up

In 1985, Eiko Kadono’s book titled “Kiki’s Delivery Service” tells the story of a 13-year-old witch named Kiki (Minami Takayama). As part of her year-long solitary training, she establishes a delivery service using her trusty broomstick for transport. Throughout this journey, Kiki encounters various obstacles such as self-doubt. However, she also finds companionship and inspiration from the new friends she meets during her adventures.

Using a budget of approximately 800 million yen, this anime film was among the costliest in its category at that time. Furthermore, certain aspects from the original content were modified to create additional hurdles for Kiki’s character.

At Your Doorstep

In “Kiki’s Delivery Service,” a rich, soft, detailed portrayal of both time and setting is enhanced by impressive voice acting, memorable music, and lavish visuals, notably from Chika Sakamoto and Hiroko Maruyama. This film swept every award it was nominated for, earning three at the 12th Anime Grand Prix.

The initial video version was the first to receive a full movie review on Siskel and Ebert, not just in their “Video Pick of the Week” segment. Both critics gave it their seal of approval with a double thumbs-up. Later, Ebert included it in his top 10 films of the year.

1
‘Grave of the Fireflies’ (1988)

Ebert’s score: 4/4

In the backdrop of World War II, the heart-wrenching tale Grave of the Fireflies unfolds, focusing on the hardships faced by siblings Seita (played by Tsutomu Tatsumi) and Setsuko (Ayano Shiraishi). Tragically, their home is bombed, leaving them fatherless as their Imperial Japanese Navy officer father was away on duty. Their mother, unfortunately, perishes in the attack at the hands of American forces. Left to fend for themselves, they navigate through a harsh world, encountering unkindness from acquaintances and strangers alike, battling hunger, and overcoming numerous obstacles.

War is No Picnic

Fireflies in the Grave powerfully delves into themes of lost innocence, harsh fate, war’s destruction, and the indestructible bond among family members. If adapted live-action, it might have garnered numerous Oscars due to its exceptional portrayal of characters, skillfully executed by industry veterans. The narrative is both moving and electrifying, yet it’s the authentic sibling connection that keeps viewers captivated.

Ebert stated that despite being an animated movie with large-eyed characters, it deserves a spot among the best war movies ever created. He further characterized it as “unquestionably the most authentic-feeling animated film I’ve encountered.

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2025-04-19 01:34