Whisper of the Heart (Japanese Audio)

Japanese animated tale of adolescent self-discovery

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About Whisper of the Heart (Japanese Audio)

Released: 1996

Platform: Max

Rating: G

Run time:

Cast
Y?ko Honna, Issei Takahashi, Shigeru Muroi, Takashi Tachibana, Shigeru Tsuyuguchi

About Whisper of the Heart (Japanese Audio)

Whisper of the Heart is a 1996 Japanese anime film directed by Yoshifumi Kondō and produced by Studio Ghibli. This animation is an outstanding blend of magical realism, romance and coming-of-age drama. The plot follows the 14-year-old book lover Shizuku as she sets out to find the owner of a mysterious antique cat figurine, leading her to Seiji Amasawa, who shares her dream to become a writer.

Making / Production

This film was the first Studio Ghibli film not directed by its founding members, Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata. This marked the directorial debut of Yoshifumi Kondō. The screenplay was written by legendary Hayao Miyazaki based on the 1989 manga by Aoi Hiiragi.

Actors

  • Yoko Honna as Shizuku Tsukishima – A voracious reader and aspiring writer. Honna beautifully portrayed the passion and curiosity of the young protagonist.
  • Issey Takasaki as Seiji Amasawa – An aspiring violin maker who becomes Shizuku's love interest. Takasaki delivered a performance capturing the charm and ambition of the character.
  • Takashi Tachibana as Seiya Tsukishima – Shizuku's supportive father. Tachibana effectively portrayed a father balancing his love for his family and his dedication to his work.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • The movie marked the studio's transition from hand-drawn cel animation to computer graphics imagery.
  • It was believed that Yoshifumi Kondō was being groomed to be the successor to Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata.

Awards

The film won the Mainichi Film Concours award for Best Animated Film in 1996.

Quotes

  • "Suddenly, my shoes feel tight."
  • "I won't let you make my feet hurt."
  • "I'd rather be a crow than a bird in a cage."

Music, Soundtrack

  • "Country Road" - This song is performed by Yoko Honna and is a central theme in the movie.
  • "Whisper of the Heart" Medley - Features music from the film, composed by Yuji Nomi.
  • "Take Me Home, Country Roads" - The film features both English and Japanese versions of John Denver's classic.