Is Silent Voice on Netflix?
The Movie and its Sequels
Silent Voice, also known as Koe no Katachi in Japanese, is a 2016 Japanese animated film directed by Hiroyuki Imaishi and produced by Gainax and Madhouse. The movie has gained a significant following worldwide for its heartwarming story and lovable characters.
Plot Summary
The story takes place in the Koganei Private School, where we meet Morioh Morinozuka, a high school student who has been expelled for throwing away his favorite basketball. He is forced to live in an orphanage with his former classmates, except for Hideaki Morinoshima, the first girl to have written a character in the school’s yearbook. Morinozuka’s life becomes even more difficult when he is transferred to a new school, and he is introduced to a new group of students, including Ryouji Seijuro, the smart and athletic student, and Baka Kirishima, the laid-back and self-centered student.
The Characters
- Morioh Morinozuka (Shiro): The main protagonist of the story, Morinozuka is a kind and gentle soul who is struggling to find his place in the world. He is passionate about basketball and wants to prove himself as a talented player.
- Hideaki Morinoshima (Koro): A new student who has written a character in the school’s yearbook, Morinoshima becomes Morinozuka’s ally and friend. He is kind, intelligent, and understanding.
- Ryouji Seijuro (Ryo): A tall and athletic student who becomes Morinozuka’s classmate and friend. He is initially wary of Morinozuka’s intentions but eventually warms up to him.
- Baka Kirishima (Bako): A laid-back and self-centered student who becomes Morinozuka’s rival and friend. He is initially arrogant and dismissive, but eventually opens up and becomes more vulnerable.
Themes and Messages
- Friendship and Connection: Morinozuka’s journey is all about finding friends and connection, despite the odds against him. Throughout the movie, he learns that true friends are those who accept and support him for who he is.
- Overcoming Social Anxiety: Morinozuka struggles with social anxiety and feels like an outcast. However, with the help of his friends, he learns to overcome his fears and feel more confident.
- Embracing One’s Individuality: The movie promotes the idea of embracing one’s individuality and not trying to conform to societal norms. Morinozuka’s love of basketball and his individuality make him unique and special.
Sequels and Adaptations
The success of Silent Voice led to the creation of two sequels:
- Silent Voice: Part II (Banakamono no naka): The movie takes place a year after the events of the first film and follows Morinozuka and his friends as they face new challenges and obstacles.
- Silent Voice 2: The Final Chapter (Banakamono no yōsei): The final installment of the series takes place several years after the events of the first film and follows Morinozuka as he prepares to enter college and start a new chapter in his life.
Box Office Performance
Silent Voice was a commercial success worldwide, grossing over $76 million at the box office.
Reception and Accolades
The movie received widespread critical acclaim, with many praising its heartwarming story, lovable characters, and themes of friendship and individuality. The movie won several awards, including the 2017 Japan Academy Prize for Animation of the Year.
Conclusion
Silent Voice is a heartwarming and engaging animated movie that has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. The movie’s themes of friendship, individuality, and overcoming social anxiety make it a great choice for families and children. If you’re looking for a movie that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired, Silent Voice is definitely worth checking out.
Table: Characters and Cast
| Character | Actor |
|---|---|
| Morioh Morinozuka (Shiro) | Takuya Eguchi |
| Hideaki Morinoshima (Koro) | Hiroki Tochio |
| Ryouji Seijuro (Ryo) | Kento Tanuma |
| Baka Kirishima (Bako) | Mikage Kyōda |
Statistics:
- Language: Japanese, English, and Spanish
- Release Date: July 2016
- Runtime: 96 minutes
- Box Office: Over $76 million worldwide
User Reviews
- IMDB: 8.1/10 (based on 5,000+ user reviews)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 91% (based on 100+ user reviews)
Why Watch Silent Voice?
- Heartwarming Story: The movie’s story is a heartwarming and uplifting tale of friendship and individuality.
- Relatable Characters: The characters in the movie are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to become invested in their lives.
- Themes: The movie’s themes of friendship, individuality, and overcoming social anxiety make it a great choice for families and children.