The Tale of Princess Kaguya is a weirdly sad masterpiece

Should you watch this?

If you want a movie that moves at the speed of a growing plant, then yes. If you need explosions or high-stakes action every five minutes, stay away. This is for the patient souls who don't mind feeling a little bit hollow by the time the credits roll.

There is this moment early on where Kaguya is just running through the fields. The animation style shifts—everything gets scratchy and loose, like the artist was losing their mind with joy. It’s the most alive I’ve seen a movie look in years.

Then things get complicated. The bamboo cutter wants her to be a princess, so they move to the city. Everything turns stiff and formal. The movie actually gets suffocating on purpose. You start to miss the mud and the grass from the first act.

Odd observations:

• The sound of her robes dragging on the floor is louder than any of the dialogue. It’s hypnotic.
• Some of the side characters have these weird, exaggerated faces that almost feel out of place, like they wandered in from It's a Gift.
• The way she handles her suitors is brutal. It’s funny, but it’s the kind of funny that makes you feel bad for laughing.

I found myself staring at the backgrounds more than the characters. It looks like watercolors that haven't quite dried yet. You can see the brushstrokes. It’s honest, unlike the polished, shiny stuff we usually get in theaters.

The ending hits like a ton of bricks. It doesn't ask for your permission to be sad; it just takes the joy right out of the room. I’m still not sure if I like how abruptly it stops, but I guess life is kind of like that, right?

It’s not as punchy as The Wizard, but it’s got a weird, quiet power. Maybe keep a tissue nearby. Or don't. Just be ready for it to stick to your ribs for a few days. 🎋