Windaria

Windaria is one of the most depressing films I have just about ever seen, but I was moved by it as well.

I really, really like this film despite its small plot holes. The Art and Character designs are just wonderful. If you think that Characters Eyes are too big, then I guess you just don't get it. The soundtrack is outstanding as well.

Some things about Windaria still haunt me today... you'll find yourself doing a lot of thinking after you watch this film. I first saw it back in like 1991, I paid $30 for a copy of it because I thought the box art was good, and the story sounded interesting. I scored big; I must have watched this movie about 10+ times. Fairly recently I was able to get a hold of the original Japanese version Subtitled in English. I was very interesting to finally see the movie as it originally intended. I thought it would answer all my questions. It did answer some, but also created some new ones. The difference between versions is quite interesting. For example, I can remember at least one occasion that dialogue existed in the US version, where the Japanese version was silent. Then of course there is some dialogue in the Japanese version that was changed into something completely different in the US version. I must admit, after watching both versions I think I still like the US version best, probably just because it is what I am used to, and is what I saw first.

This film is a unique Romeo and Juliet style story, but it goes much deeper than that. It is also not just about one couple, but two. Who struggle because of foolish war, seduction, temptation, and decite.

I personally loved this film and give it a 10, as long as you're not anti anime and have an open mind you'll enjoy it as well.

Echoing the comments made by others here, I would agree that the original Japanese version (rather than Harmony Gold's English dub) is by far the superior movie. The original is a tragedy in the classic sense of the word, while the English rewrite significantly softens the impact by grafting on a different ending, an ending that undoes the gravity and impact that the story had worked so hard and so skillfully to build.

The original version of "Windaria" is a genuinely moving and beautiful film, and deserves a new dub that is true to its dramatic spirit and content. Even if this never happens, however, the film is worth viewing in the original Japanese; such is the skill of the animators and writers that the story doesn't really require spoken dialog. Even if you don't understand a word of Japanese, you'll still be moved.

(8/10: Minor flaws that can be overlooked - Worth your time)

A classic anti-war tale containing many Shakespearean themes and plot beats.

Character arcs are surprising, many scenes are moving & memorable, and the soundtrack compliments these scenes.

Settings are inspired by European architecture and countrysides; namely, the Roman Empire, medieval Europe and WW2 Europe. Unusually, there is also futuristic technology mixed in.

Backdrops & characters are charmingly illustrated & animated, but the plot is fast-paced, so they can go unnoticed.

Long distances are traversed quickly & effortlessly using future tech, making the world feel small. This is a side-effect of the fast-paced plot, and my only real compliant.

On the bright side, Windaria does respect your time. And you'll feel an array of emotions in that time, if you so choose.

When American critics and anime fans begin to start searching for other (older) anime to put on a list of classic and important anime films to watch, sooner or later they will find and add "Windaria" on that list.

"Windaria" and Miyazaki's "Nausicaa of the Valley wind" are two of the most beautifully crafted and carefully plotted animated ecological/anti-war movies created in the mid 80's. These two films are both timeless, with beautiful artwork and very memorable characters.

Because the romance between the characters in "Windaria" are so strong, well thought-out, and believable, the characters and their story help draw the viewer completely into the film's beautiful yet tragic tale--it is a finely crafted story about the loss of romance, loss of humanity, and the tragedies of war. It is truly a classic film. (One hopes for a complete, uncut, subtitled version of "Windaria" to be available very soon along with a new, complete, and uncut dubbed version.)

As many people here have commented already, "Windaria" is a gem that may bring tears to your eyes. I highly recommend this film. It is a classic film and is certainly worth viewing.

although i have only seen the american version, this movie can be described as nothing but beautiful. the animation (particularly for something released in the mid 80s) is lovely, the plot is unique, and the characters are memorable. the tragic endings to two seperate but intertwined love stories bring tears, but overall this movie is wonderful