In this episode of ‘Midday Movies,’ hosts Laura and Stephen discuss Studio Ghibli's emotionally potent film ‘Grave of the Fireflies,’ directed by Isao Takahata and based on the acclaimed book of the same name. The film tells the harrowing tale of two children, Seita (voiced by Tsutomu Tatsumi) and Setsuko (Ayano Shiraishi), struggling to survive in Japan during the final days of World War II. Despite being an animated film, ‘Grave of the Fireflies’ is an unflinching portrayal of war's human cost. The hosts explore the film's unique narrative style, the cultural and generational differences in its reception, and the director's personal experiences that influenced the movie's creation. They delve into themes of survival, innocence, and societal expectations, making a compelling case for why this film stands as one of the most affecting war movies ever made. ‘Grave of the Fireflies’ is now streaming on Netflix.

And look forward to our Alien-themed RPG “Facehuggers and Friends,” featuring members of the Umbrella Podcast Collective (https://www.rainydayrabbitholes.com/umbrella) as players. Releasing in June, in advance of FX’s “Alien: Earth” series (2025).

Follow the Umbrella Podcast Collective on IG at @umbrellapodcastcollective for updates on “Facehuggers and Friends: An Alien RPG.”

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Ep 231: Reviewing “Grave of the Fireflies” (1988, Studio Ghibli) and the Filmmaker Who Lived It

Midday Movies