Children Who Chase Lost Voices (2011) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
“Children Who Chase Lost Voices,” also known as “Hoshi o Ou Kodomo,” is a 2011 Japanese animated fantasy film directed by Makoto Shinkai. Renowned for his visually stunning and emotionally rich storytelling, Shinkai’s film explores themes of loss, longing, and the journey to understand one’s own heart. With its beautiful animation, engaging narrative, and heartfelt characters, the film stands out as a significant work in contemporary anime cinema.
Plot Summary
The film follows Asuna Watase (voiced by Kanon Tani), a young girl who finds solace in listening to mysterious music on her radio after the death of her father. Her life changes when she encounters Shun (voiced by Satoshi Hino), a mysterious boy from a hidden world. Shun introduces her to the concept of a magical realm called Agartha, where the dead can be brought back to life, and where the music she hears is linked to this otherworldly place.
When Shun dies under tragic circumstances, Asuna is devastated and decides to embark on a dangerous journey to Agartha in hopes of resurrecting him. Accompanied by her teacher Mr. Morisaki (voiced by Nobuo Tobita) and a guide named Ryuji (voiced by Takahiro Sakurai), Asuna explores the depths of Agartha and uncovers its dark secrets. The journey challenges her beliefs about life and death, and she must confront her own fears and desires in order to find closure and understanding.
The film delves into themes of grief and the desire to change the past, as well as the importance of accepting and moving forward from loss. The journey to Agartha represents a metaphorical quest for emotional healing and personal growth.
Character Performances
Asuna Watase, voiced by Kanon Tani, is the heart of the film. Tani’s performance brings a sense of vulnerability and determination to the character. Asuna’s emotional journey is portrayed with depth, making her quest both compelling and relatable.
Satoshi Hino as Shun delivers a nuanced performance that captures the character’s mysterious and tragic nature. Shun’s interactions with Asuna are central to the film’s emotional core, and Hino’s portrayal adds layers of complexity to his character.
Nobuo Tobita as Mr. Morisaki and Takahiro Sakurai as Ryuji contribute significantly to the film’s narrative. Tobita’s performance as the enigmatic teacher adds a sense of gravitas, while Sakurai’s role as Ryuji provides both guidance and a touch of humor to the journey.
Themes and Audience Appeal
“Children Who Chase Lost Voices” explores several profound themes, including the nature of grief, the desire to undo the past, and the journey towards acceptance. The film’s portrayal of Agartha as a realm where the dead can be resurrected serves as a backdrop for Asuna’s personal struggle with loss and her quest for understanding.
The film’s exploration of these themes is enhanced by its rich visual style and emotive soundtrack. The animation captures the beauty and mystery of Agartha, creating a visually immersive experience that complements the film’s emotional depth.
The story’s focus on personal growth and emotional healing resonates with a broad audience, making it a meaningful experience for viewers of all ages. The film’s blend of fantasy and drama offers a unique and engaging perspective on the universal themes of loss and recovery.
Visuals and Direction
Makoto Shinkai is renowned for his stunning visual style, and “Children Who Chase Lost Voices” is no exception. The film features beautifully detailed animation, with lush landscapes and intricate character designs that create a rich and immersive world. Shinkai’s direction brings a sense of wonder and awe to the depiction of Agartha, enhancing the film’s fantasy elements.
The cinematography and use of color in the film are particularly noteworthy, with vibrant and evocative visuals that capture the emotional tone of each scene. The contrast between the familiar world of Asuna and the fantastical realm of Agartha adds depth to the storytelling and highlights the film’s themes.
The score, composed by Tenmon, complements the film’s visuals and emotional narrative. The music enhances the mood and atmosphere, adding to the film’s impact and helping to convey the emotional weight of Asuna’s journey.
Reception and Impact
“Children Who Chase Lost Voices” received positive reviews from critics and audiences, who praised its emotional depth, visual beauty, and compelling storytelling. The film was recognized for its ability to blend fantasy elements with poignant themes, creating a memorable and impactful viewing experience.
The film’s success further established Makoto Shinkai as a prominent figure in anime filmmaking, following his earlier successes with films like “5 Centimeters Per Second” and “Your Name.” The film’s exploration of grief and healing, combined with its stunning animation, has made it a standout work in Shinkai’s filmography.
Streaming Availability: Where to Watch “Children Who Chase Lost Voices” Online
If you’re interested in watching “Children Who Chase Lost Voices,” the film is available on several streaming platforms, especially in the United States.
Amazon Prime Video
“Children Who Chase Lost Voices” is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically range from $2.99 to $4.99 for HD quality, with purchasing options usually between $9.99 and $14.99.
Apple iTunes
Apple iTunes offers “Children Who Chase Lost Voices” for rent and purchase. Rental prices generally start at $3.99 for HD quality, with purchase options around $9.99 to $14.99. The film can be streamed on Apple devices such as iPhones, iPads, and Apple TVs.
Google Play Movies & TV
Google Play Movies & TV provides “Children Who Chase Lost Voices” for rental or purchase. Rental prices are similar to other platforms, typically between $3.99 and $4.99, with purchasing options ranging from $9.99 to $14.99.
HiDive
HiDive offers “Children Who Chase Lost Voices” as part of its anime streaming library. A subscription to HiDive provides access to the film along with other anime content.
Crunchyroll
While Crunchyroll focuses primarily on current anime series, it occasionally features films in its library. Checking Crunchyroll for availability is a good option for streaming the film.
Final Thoughts
“Children Who Chase Lost Voices” is a beautifully crafted film that combines fantasy elements with a deeply emotional narrative. With its stunning animation, evocative soundtrack, and exploration of themes related to loss and healing, the film offers a compelling and memorable experience.
Whether you’re a fan of Makoto Shinkai’s work or new to his films, “Children Who Chase Lost Voices” provides an engaging and thought-provoking viewing experience. Its availability on multiple streaming platforms ensures that it is accessible to a wide audience, making it a great choice for those interested in anime and storytelling.
