The first thing to emphasize is that, regardless of what the plot summary may sound like, this is not and should not be regarded as true science fiction. While there are definitely sci-fi elements in the show, the approach that the director takes uses them more as a backdrop for the main plot line than as an actual focus to the show. As a result, a lot of criticism is generated because the anime doesn't "explain enough," when in fact they're missing the point entirely. The science-fiction is used to aid a story of love and friendship, not the other way round.
The second thing to bring out into the open is that truly appreciating the storyline requires both a tolerance of a deliberate pace and an appreciation for what at heart is a rather simplistic story. Both of these elements seem to have turned more than a few people off, but for me they only added to the film's elegance.
Unfortunately, the narrative admittedly falters when the anime wanders into superfluous details that distract from the main focus of the show. Although such moments are thankfully rare, the times that they occur feel messy and muddled. These flaws in the story can most likely be attributed to the extra length of the movie; in Voices of a Distant Star, the limited running time forced the director to focus on what was most important. Here, however, he feels free (or even obligated) to diverge into places not relevant to his main plot line, and the result is never helpful.
However, barring each of these points, the anime offers a truly moving experience. Essentially, the basic storyline can be distilled to three characters learning the importance of their childhood promises and feelings. While the story is simple, the director is able to give immense depth and power to it. The message is also relatively straightforward, but at the same time thought-provoking and moving. The storyline is aided considerably by some absolutely beautiful animation, which sparkles with light, color and detail.
As a whole, Beyond the Clouds is a soaring work, a stunning accomplishment that is basically a must-see for this year. As Makoto Shinkai's debut into the world of film, this is a landmark achievement, and I dream of the day he surpasses this work. No other anime released in 2004 has resonated with me more.
The second thing to bring out into the open is that truly appreciating the storyline requires both a tolerance of a deliberate pace and an appreciation for what at heart is a rather simplistic story. Both of these elements seem to have turned more than a few people off, but for me they only added to the film's elegance.
Unfortunately, the narrative admittedly falters when the anime wanders into superfluous details that distract from the main focus of the show. Although such moments are thankfully rare, the times that they occur feel messy and muddled. These flaws in the story can most likely be attributed to the extra length of the movie; in Voices of a Distant Star, the limited running time forced the director to focus on what was most important. Here, however, he feels free (or even obligated) to diverge into places not relevant to his main plot line, and the result is never helpful.
However, barring each of these points, the anime offers a truly moving experience. Essentially, the basic storyline can be distilled to three characters learning the importance of their childhood promises and feelings. While the story is simple, the director is able to give immense depth and power to it. The message is also relatively straightforward, but at the same time thought-provoking and moving. The storyline is aided considerably by some absolutely beautiful animation, which sparkles with light, color and detail.
As a whole, Beyond the Clouds is a soaring work, a stunning accomplishment that is basically a must-see for this year. As Makoto Shinkai's debut into the world of film, this is a landmark achievement, and I dream of the day he surpasses this work. No other anime released in 2004 has resonated with me more.