Read User Reviews and Submit your own for When Marnie Was There

8

vahnSep 7, 2015

As the last movie (at least temporarily) from Studio Ghibli, I was really impressed and I really think they took a break with style, even though it's definitely not their best piece of work.

From the very beginning we meet Anna, which hasAs the last movie (at least temporarily) from Studio Ghibli, I was really impressed and I really think they took a break with style, even though it's definitely not their best piece of work.

From the very beginning we meet Anna, which has the unique perk of having blue eyes, something that only at the end will make total sense, and her summer stay at her...grandparents? Anna is an orphan but I always got confused on who the two elderly were, but it's not important: what is important is that Annah is sick and prefers being alone and drawing, and during a summer festival (which I forgot the name...I apologize but I'm not very good at those japanese names) she offends another girl and flees to a lake she saw earlier, where a big western looking house resides: in this place she'll encounter a young blonde haired girl called Marnie, together creating a bond of true friendship...and hopefully nothing else, considering some scenes were quite weird to look, with lots of hugs and intimate moments such as dancing, blushing and (in my version), even telling her "I love you". Whatever it's the case, it doesn't go any further which is sort of a lost potential of self discovery, especially in terms of gender but instead it focuses on the friedship aspect, which is confusing to say the least.

Until the very end, we never know who or what Marnie is and the viewer just think she's a ghost...and I won't spoil this of course but once the ending approaches, -everything- will fit to its place and finally Anna will become self aware and fully complete of herself, finally understanding her anger and her solitude.

Overall, I loved this movie and despite it's missed messages, its confusion and sometimes boring parts I truely enjoyed this movie, and I'm glad that they left us a fine piece of art before taking their momentarily break from movie making.

Such a shame we will have to wait a long time before we can witness another great work of the Studio Ghibli, but as an "final" movie for the moment (again, momentarily) it's a very good one and I highly recommend it.

Just be careful: you might be confused the first time watching it.… Expand

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

All this user's reviews

10

BrianAD9Jan 14, 2016

This film is so beautiful, and it deals with some very deep and important themes. It's a puzzle movie. I adore this film. This is one of only a few movies I have ever seen that made me tear up, and make me want to cry. While it's probablyThis film is so beautiful, and it deals with some very deep and important themes. It's a puzzle movie. I adore this film. This is one of only a few movies I have ever seen that made me tear up, and make me want to cry. While it's probably aimed mostly at mothers to watch with their daughters, anyone who enjoys good films should love this masterpiece.I do have to say though that I prefer the Japanese version with English subtitles to the English language version for two reasons.

1: While I think Hailee Steinfeld is an amazing young actress (no one will ever play Mattie Ross in True Grit better), she is too old to play the lead character, Anna, in my opinion. Her voice seems too deep. Again, nothing against her, she's an amazing actress.

2: There is one specific line in this film that made me tear up and get a big lump in my throat. In the dubbed version, the line is spoken softly, which is fine. But in the original language version, the line is almost screamed, and is just way more emotional. It's like a knife to the heart, whereas the English version lacks the same level of emotion.

But whatever version you see, it is one of the most beautiful films I have ever seen, not just story-wise, but also in the gorgeous hand-drawn animation, and the emotional score. I very strongly recommend When Marnie Was There. I am upset that this could be Studio Ghibli's final film, but it is certainly a good way to go out.… Expand

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

All this user's reviews

10

Rebecca31Jun 25, 2016

You will never be disappointed with a Studio Ghibli movie and this is no exception. A complete masterpiece in every way, beautiful story, visually stunning, perfection in film making. I could not recommend this highly enough, it's brilliant.

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

All this user's reviews

9

quentntarantadoJan 15, 2016

Not as great as The Tale of the Princess Kaguya or The Wind Rises, but it is what it is, a wonderful and sweet tale of growing up. Vastly superior to the best many other studios (with ears) can offer.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

All this user's reviews

9

soulJoe88Nov 30, 2015

german
Ich bin großer Ghibli Fan und mag besonders die kleinen, mit Details gespickten Geschichten wie sie Ghibli auch schon in "Stimme Des Herzens" oder "Tränen Der Erinnerung" zeigte. Erinnerungen An Marnie schlägt erzählerisch in diesegerman
Ich bin großer Ghibli Fan und mag besonders die kleinen, mit Details gespickten Geschichten wie sie Ghibli auch schon in "Stimme Des Herzens" oder "Tränen Der Erinnerung" zeigte. Erinnerungen An Marnie schlägt erzählerisch in diese Kerbe und traf trotz mancher Verwirrungen innerhalb der Geheimnisse um die beiden Mädchen genau meinen Nerf. Wer abseits der Fantasy Filme etwas mit Ghibli anfangen kann, sollte ihn sich unbedingt ansehen. Für mich mit der beste Ghibli. 3 Kinogänge sagen alles :)… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

All this user's reviews

10

NerdConsultantJun 12, 2016

I loved When Marnie Was There. I loved it so much, this film was so fantastically written, so fantastically animated and it was a joy to experience. I loved the characters, the story line was great and engaging the mood is set perfectly.I loved When Marnie Was There. I loved it so much, this film was so fantastically written, so fantastically animated and it was a joy to experience. I loved the characters, the story line was great and engaging the mood is set perfectly. The characters are designed brilliantly, it’s just an all round excellent film and it doesn’t appear that too much has been lost in translation between Britain and Japan.

If this is to be the final film from Studio Ghibli, they are going out on a high because this film was excellent and really should have won the Oscar for Best Animated Film. I liked Inside Out but for goodness sake, this film was way better. This is just a lovely movie, I cannot recommend it enough if it is playing in your area and it doesn’t matter which format you see it in because the dub cast do an excellent job with their performances and I am certain the Japanese cast do an excellent job too from what I have heard. It’s up there with the best Studio Ghibli movies, like Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, The Wind Rises and many others. It really deserves to be in with them.

When I left the cinema I was both happy and sad because I knew this was the last time I got to see a new Studio Ghibli film in the cinema and while I am glad to have seen a great movie, I am sad to see this studio go because I know there will probably never be a collective group of creators like them in my lifetime.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

All this user's reviews

8

AriseAndBeOct 24, 2015

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. When Marnie Was There is undoubtedly the most emotional Ghibli movie in my opinion. I love the haunting atmosphere of the marsh and the breathtaking animation. The characters are also amazing with Anna being so complex and emotionally damaged, its lovely to watch her character grow throughout the movie. The whole mystery behind Marnie was a little too drawn out and it towards the end I just wanted it to get to the end so I could find out what happens. But the ending was so emotional and so sad yet happy at the same time. Such a wonderful movie that everyone should watch.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

All this user's reviews

10

FuturedirectorFeb 20, 2017

When Marnie was there is an intense, magnifecently animated and surprisingly impressive film that carries the audience to a wonderful world full of charm and drama.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

All this user's reviews

10

GentM2015Jun 19, 2015

A really good and magical animated movie.A film for children that is mature,and also very important for kids to see because it teaches a lot.The animation is beautiful,it has a good mystery and some very good messages.I would say it is one ofA really good and magical animated movie.A film for children that is mature,and also very important for kids to see because it teaches a lot.The animation is beautiful,it has a good mystery and some very good messages.I would say it is one of the best Studio Ghibli's film ever.… Expand

6 of 8 users found this helpful62

All this user's reviews

7

DokaluJun 30, 2015

Once again, Studio Ghibli gives us a magical film, and probably their last, which would really make this movie is the perfect way to say goodbye. It was an emotional experience, even when it maybe dragged in some parts, it is really enjoyableOnce again, Studio Ghibli gives us a magical film, and probably their last, which would really make this movie is the perfect way to say goodbye. It was an emotional experience, even when it maybe dragged in some parts, it is really enjoyable and touching. Like The Wind Rises, it's not a children's movie, it touches very mature themes, but it is certainly a movie that some smart kids can enjoy. A fantasy drama very well made.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

All this user's reviews

9

LeZeeJun 16, 2015

From the director Hiromasa Yonebayashi of 'The Secret World of Arriety' fame. Based on the 1967 English novel of the same name and so the important characters borrowed the western names. This is what I call a fine adaptation, greatFrom the director Hiromasa Yonebayashi of 'The Secret World of Arriety' fame. Based on the 1967 English novel of the same name and so the important characters borrowed the western names. This is what I call a fine adaptation, great transformation from the words to the motion picture. Actually, it suited for the narration from the standpoint of Japanese culture and lifestyle, especially for this anime version with the beautiful fictional coastal landscapes. Whenever I remember this film in the future, that Marsh house would be the first thing to pop out in my mind, an unforgettable landmark for sure.

The movie promos were damp. The posters were not that impressive, but okay and the trailer was very ordinary. Studio Ghibli was the reason to go for it, so I expected nothing spectacular from the movie. Even while I was watching, I thought it was just an enjoyable mystery flick, but you know sometime the value of the whole movie comes at the end twist. Once the end was near my stance changed, especially after the hidden truth revelation. Some movies need a re-watch to terminate any doubts regarding characters and scenes. As for this movie, if your focus is straight, then it's does not require.

Not a technical brilliance like the director's previous movie, but the story was strong and twisty. The characters were very interesting, suspense was the movie's influence for the audience to stick till the end. There is no loose end, certainly gives a few topics to discuss about, but the narration moves on a circular track and hits back like the boomerang. That does not mean it is a time travel or something. The narration bends and blends with the time. To realise what is real and what is not, you have to wait till the end. After seeing the film, I understood everyone's childhood memories could monopolize if we encounter same object, place, person and other things again in the later life. Yes, I had few minor experience in my life as well.

The opening dialogue itself a hint of what kind of movie it is going to be. There are two prominent girls, Anna and Marnie in the story, like the Anna and Elsa from 'Frozen'. The narration flips on a regular basis to tell the multiple layered story. As this film was a puzzle in portrayal, obviously viewers try to solve it, including me. I tried my best. I thought Anna's childhood toy was something to do with all the fuss, but I was terribly wrong. That was a perfect divert if you observe it closely. In another perspective, I kept 'The Others' and 'The Orphanage' in mind, but was not even close to where this story was heading. Whether you succeed or not, very fun to solve a mystery, you know. Finally, it gave me full satisfaction like that indirectly I saw 'The Uninvited' once again.

Feels like the Oscars was concluded yesterday, but I am already thinking about the next one. If I am not wrong this movie is definitely one of the contenders for the best animation race, along with 'The Good Dinosaur' probably. Absolutely, I would be disappointed if I don't see it in the final five. There is lots of time between now and then, so anything might happen, who knows. After all, this film has already won my little heart and millions of other's. I know no one can replace Mr. Miyazaki, but feels like Hiromasa Yonebayashi could come near if his future projects as much effective as his one. Best of luck to him and he's only a 41. But remember Isao Takahat is 80 and still in the race, yet to announce his retirement. And this film was very close to his 'Only Yesterday'.

I love you more than any girl I've ever known.

Studio Ghibli is like Disney Studio from the east. As we know, narrating a fairy tale having the tween girls in the lead is what they're famous for. The previous couple of movies were out of their trademark, so, happy they are back with this masterwork. At a same time I am very very very very sad, because it's their final movie after the 30 years of triumph. Since Hayao Miyazaki's retirement everything falling apart from the studio's management. They've given reasons and it is only a temporary, though hope the rise of 3D animation is not the one to halt the production, praying for the pause to be lifted soon.

This film is not just passing through from this giant anime production house, but it is a masterpiece. As usual, it is a girly movie and that does not stop grownups, especially men from a watch. I loved it, everytime when I like a movie I express my desire for a sequel and so I did for this film. Though it was one time story with nothing left over for further development, possibly some new thing can be attached to it. Whatever happens this movie will remain as one of the best from the studio and can compete with any modern animations and live-shot masterworks. Highly recommended, not just for anime or animation fans, but for mystery and who love the layers in story narration.

9/10… Expand

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

All this user's reviews

7

Iky009Sep 16, 2015

Can not show the same breath the charm of the previous films of Ghibli even more so shows the quality of the studio as a whole, even if the plot is not as lush, but still yes is good.

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

All this user's reviews

5

sandyvaJun 26, 2015

Enjoyable, but the story could have been a lot better. I really loved the illustrations, though. Especially the images of the countryside. Talented group of illustrators. About the story, it was a little confusing - and dry. At first IEnjoyable, but the story could have been a lot better. I really loved the illustrations, though. Especially the images of the countryside. Talented group of illustrators. About the story, it was a little confusing - and dry. At first I thought the story was going to be about gender exploration. I initially thought Marnie and Anna had something going on - she always blushed, and the director would focus in on the romantic sensuality between the two girls... but... I'll stop here. Kind of weird. Also, a blonde hair, blue eyed girl by a half Japanese half white father? That was kind of weird. No Hayao Miyazaki, but it's enjoyable.… Expand

1 of 5 users found this helpful14

All this user's reviews

7

FadeBlackJul 14, 2017

Very quiet, very subtle, and very effective film on loneliness and isolation. Not as grand as previous Ghibli films, but a story that cannot help but stir something in you.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

All this user's reviews

7

cartoonfaxuatorMay 28, 2015

I'm going to be very blunt. Some of the hatred that this film has gotten is completely justifiable. I'm not afraid to admit that Ghibli could have done WAY better. But for we got as the possibile last Ghibli ever, it was still beatiful. OnI'm going to be very blunt. Some of the hatred that this film has gotten is completely justifiable. I'm not afraid to admit that Ghibli could have done WAY better. But for we got as the possibile last Ghibli ever, it was still beatiful. On paper the plot of the story sound like pure perfection, and utterly flawless. But how the story was executed was not flawless. A good example are the dream scenes. They start amazingly, but after the half way point they start to get muddled, and pretty pretentious because of what direction the plot is taking. When you get down to it, this film only has one true criticism. It's not long enough to flesh out all of its themes and characters. not including Marnie. But despite that heavy criticism, the film overall is enjoyable. After the first watch you'll definitely have mixed feeling, but by the second watch you'll definitely have a much better time. That I swear.… Expand

0 of 4 users found this helpful04

All this user's reviews

1

BroyaxJun 13, 2017

Double dose de grenadine bien sirupeuse ici accompagnée d'une eau de rose concentrée pour ces "Souvenirs de Marnie" qui brassent en vrac et dans le désordre le désarroi d'une petite ado, les atermoiements des mômes adoptés et le désoeuvrementDouble dose de grenadine bien sirupeuse ici accompagnée d'une eau de rose concentrée pour ces "Souvenirs de Marnie" qui brassent en vrac et dans le désordre le désarroi d'une petite ado, les atermoiements des mômes adoptés et le désoeuvrement d'autres mouflets délaissés par leurs parents bourgeois. En somme, tout un programme bien moralisateur et donneur de leçons à la petite semaine.

Tout cela est enrobé dans un mélange foutraque de poésie (c'est poétique, t'entends ?) et d'onirisme qui confine à la maladie mentale caractéristique des "mondes imaginaires" de jeunes schizophrènes qui se découvrent "médiums" et en contact avec des évènements passés et des personnes trépassées : je suis sûr que la petite ado ferait un malheur avec un guéridon.

Couche après couche, le film en rajoute (même pas peur !) jusqu'à l'indigestion de niaiserie même pour les plus aguerris. La musique dégoulinante se fait le chantre de toute cette chienlit dont le scénario casse-gueule bringuebalant et tellement tiré par les cheveux t'arrache le scalp direct.

Techniquement, c'est très soigné et très lumineux (toute cette poésie, c'est dingue...) et seule l'animation marque sévèrement le pas, très boîteuse. Mais dieux du ciel, quelle purge que ces "souvenirs" ! j'en ai pas digéré mes corn-flakes du coup : ça le fait pas trop avec la grenadine.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

All this user's reviews

9

killerofdethDec 10, 2016

I really liked this movie as it was an experience from start to end. It was a very fulfilling movie as the art was great as expected from Studio Ghibli. The story at the start and end was very interesting but the middle part was only ok. TheI really liked this movie as it was an experience from start to end. It was a very fulfilling movie as the art was great as expected from Studio Ghibli. The story at the start and end was very interesting but the middle part was only ok. The parts with Anna and Marnie were great but there were sometimes I got confused. There are some side character but they show up once or are in a side plot that is not resolved or built upon till the end and it is over in a few sentences and one character who knows something is only given a little to explain at the very end. Anna has some development and she does grow a little bit but I felt like most of it happened at the end. In total even though there are some things that I don't like I still think that it is a great movie and the ending really makes it for me since all of the mystery's and side plots are resolved at the end. I feel like they should have made it a little longer to go more in depth about everything. But it is an experience that I do not regret watching. If you can go see this movie then I would recommend it.… Expand