Review of Suzume

Suzume no Tojimari Review: Makoto Shinkai's boldest project to date. Right after the huge success of 'Kimi no Na Wa', Makoto Shinkai name skyrocketed, and everyone was excitedly waiting on the next 'Kimi No Na Wa'. Unfortunately the pressure of achieving such expectation seems to heavily weigh on Makoto, as it shows on the direction of his next project "Weathering with You" which most of us can agree as being pretty underwhelming. I was pretty skeptical when Suzume trailer was released. Like um, the man who turned into a chair? animation that looks similar to 'Kimi no Na Wa'? I really wonderedif Suzume will prove Makoto's ultimate downfall. I was still trying to be hopeful by relying on IMDB, Rotten Tomatoes and MyAnimeList Score; with more positive reviews.

The day arrived. I couldn't say I was not excited, however right from it started to the first 15 minutes of the movie, I was a bit worried. The pacing was a little off and somewhat how the protagonist driven to the main plot was not quite convincing. Thankfully right after the adventure started and we learn what disaster was awaiting for the protagonist, the movie really took off and I was quite absorbed.

The movie, however, was not perfect. There were moments where you felt like you need to just not question the how, the why and the coincidences too much, so you can just really enjoy the ride. And the love story between the main leads (although many endearing moments) not its strongest feat.

Despite that, I would like to applaud Makoto for challenging himself with a more complex storyline, lore and character backstory. As usual, the animation, emotional moments and soundtrack were tastefully done. With Suzume, Makoto Shinkai has re-affirm optimism in his future projects, and I will be looking forward to them.