Whisper of the Heart (1995)

	Brittany Snow
	Cary Elwes
	Courtney Thorne-Smith
	David Gallagher
	Aoi Hiragi - Based On Comic Book By
	Hayao Miyazaki - Screenplay
	Kitaro Takasaka - Cinematographer
	Rick Dempsey - Executive Producer
	Takeshi Seyama - Editor
	Yasuyoshi Tokuma - Executive Producer
	Yoshifumi Kondo - Director
	Yuji Nomi - Original Music By

Cinema Crazed 8 of 10
"Whisper of the Heart" is unabashedly whimsical and engrossing exploring this girl and her imagination at the same time. She sees life through rose-colored glasses, but is never afraid to approach reality. Calling it a teen romance would really undermine the film's substance and thus I prefer to think of it more in terms of a romance fantasy where everything works out like its supposed to. Usually such idyllic concepts don't appeal to me, but the films so wonderfully made, I didn't really care. And yes, that incredible sunrise in the climax was hand drawn and painted. I saw the American version obviously, and the performances were very well done with Jean Smart, and Courtney Thorne Smith, and a special appearance by Cary Elwes. Harold Gould is very memorable as Nishi, the antique repairman, but Brittany Snow is adorable as Shizuku the humble and wide-eyed heroine who seeks a journey of coming of age, she has a very sweet voice, and also flexes her musical abilities in a rousing musical number where she sings "Country Roads". David Gallagher holds his own in the cast as Seiji, the emphatic violin craftsman who also seeks a purpose in his life. "Whisper of the Heart" may not be entirely one genre, but it works with an engrossing story, well drawn out characters, and a very sweet ending. While slightly drippy and polarizing for a more diverse audience, "Whisper of the Heart" is a great romance that you've probably never seen. It's guiltless, entertaining, well acted, has a wonderful story, unique lore, and beautiful characterization. What more can you ask for? Miyazaki's to be protege would have continued his legacy well. - Felix Vasquez, Jr.