Mirai

Officially selected for the Cannes film festival, Mirai (meaning “future” in Japanese) follows the story of Kun, a young boy who is dealing with a crisis as his parents turn their attentions on their new-born baby girl Mirai, whom he grows a deep dislike for. Just when all seems doomed, he encounters a magical portal that allows him to travel through time and embark on an unimaginable adventure, meeting family members in the past and future. In the mystical events that follow, Kun discovers the meaning of family and the importance of childhood, echoing elements from much loved Studio Ghibli delights, such as Spirited Away.

This dreamy delight is genius director Mamoru Hosada’s latest release in a masterpiece that masterfully plays your heartstrings, serving as another example of why animation films resonate with all demographics. The film is not only beautiful visually, but has a lot to say and communicate, while doing it authentically from a child’s perspective. Mirai is a gorgeously animated tale with stunning visuals, well-rounded characters, and a story that feels grounded. Prepare to shed a tear, or several more, in this heartwarming, innovative story about family, love and the sublime.

Naz Ozkan