Folks have been chattering about how this movie fell short, didn't meet their expectations, especially when it came to the romance. But let me tell you, I reckon it's a gem, especially because love ain't the main focus, in my opinion. It's about grappling with a significant loss, giving a comforting hug to the traumas of your younger self. And, they did it beautifully. Suzume, carrying the weight of losing her mom, clinging to those memories through that old chair – her love isn't just for the guy stuck in the seat; it's for her mom's memories. It's like peeling an onion, layers upon layers. It seemed like her actions were aimed at glimpsing her mom in the world beyond that door.
I walked into the movie theater without a clue about the plot. Unraveling it slowly was pure magic. I vividly remember the Tohoku earthquake – watching it on TV, reading about it in the papers in the following days. I was just an 11-year-old kid back then. That event shook me up good and gave birth to my deepest fears.
During that loop scene, I admit, I shed a tear or two. If I could, I'd want to experience that loop for myself too. I'm sure a lot of folks feel the same way.
I realize I'm rambling, and my words might be all over the place, so I'll hush up now. But let me tell you, this movie hit me harder than a bull in a china shop, even more than that 'Your Name' spectacle.