My thoughts on 'Whisper of the Heart'

 

My thoughts on ‘Whisper of the Heart’

(1995 Movie poster)

Whisper of the Heart is a coming-of-age story. Living in the suburbs of Tokyo, 14-year-old Shizuku is a budding poet and an avid reader. She often wonders about a mysterious guy named Seiji Amasawa who has checked out all her favourite books.

She encounters a pesky boy who dismisses her lyrical adaptation of ‘Country Roads’ as ‘corny’. Even though their first meeting is not-so-good, over the course of the movie, they bond over books and become good friends. 

Seiji aspires to become a professional violin maker. Shizuku contemplates on the fact that she hasn't been doing much to chase her dreams. She has an epiphany and decides to write a novel.

Whisper of the Heart captures the journey of an artist’s first creation. There is excitement of trying something new but also the lingering self-doubt whether it will be good enough. The journey to perfection is by no means easy. However, there is a beauty in it- trying, falling, learning and trying again.  Here is a quote which sums up the big takeaway-

“You have to dig down deep and find the emeralds tucked away inside you… and that’s just the beginning. Once you find your gems you have to polish them. It takes a lot of hard work.”

Seiji’s grandfather, a sagacious friend, agrees that Shizuku’s draft is raw and seems unfinished but she appreciates her effort. He tells her that she’s got the gem and should take her time in polishing it.

It was the first Ghibli movie which was not directed by Miyazaki or Takahata.  It was directed by Yoshifumi Kondō. Sadly, it was the last film ever directed by him. I would have loved to see more of his works.

The movie is set in 1980s but is ever relatable. Be it getting nagged by my parents to study, crushes or thinking what to do with my life. That’s probably because I am a 14-year-old too. Regardless, I thoroughly recommend this movie to all the young artists out there.

The movie also depicts the innocence of first love. I have to come to terms with the fact that it will make me check the library cards whenever I’ll get to visit one! (Covid-19 pandemic😒)

Shizuku's version of 'Take me Home, Country Road' by John Denver

The impromptu musical orchestra is one of the pivotal points of the story. We hear Seiji ,his grandfather and friends playing their instruments while Shizuku singing. 

I'm going with 🌟🌟🌟🌟.

Here is the link of the song:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TjqRLIS5-ro 

You can watch this movie on Netflix! 

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