From Up on Poppy Hill: A Nostalgic Gem in Studio Ghibli’s Crown

From Up on Poppy Hill (2011), directed by Gorō Miyazaki and written by Hayao Miyazaki and Keiko Niwa, is a tender, understated entry in Studio Ghibli’s illustrious catalog. Set against the backdrop of 1963 Yokohama, Japan, this coming-of-age tale weaves a story of young love, community, and the delicate balance between preserving the past and embracing the future. While it may lack the fantastical elements of Ghibli’s more iconic works like Spirited Away or Princess Mononoke, its grounded realism, historical depth, and emotional resonance make it a unique and compelling addition to the studio’s oeuvre. This review explores the film’s distinctive qualities, its historical and cultural context, and its place within the Ghibli legacy, offering a fresh perspective on why From Up on Poppy Hill deserves a closer look.

A Slice of Life in Post-War Japan

Set in the early 1960s, From Up on Poppy Hill captures Japan at a pivotal moment of transformation, just before the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, which symbolized the nation’s post-war rebirth. The story follows Umi Matsuzaki, a 16-year-old high school girl who runs her family’s boarding house, Coquelicot Manor, while her mother studies abroad. Umi’s daily ritual of raising signal flags to honor her father, a sailor lost during the Korean War, sets the tone for a narrative steeped in nostalgia and quiet resilience. Her life intersects with Shun Kazama, a charismatic student fighting to save the Latin Quarter, their school’s dilapidated clubhouse, from demolition. As their friendship blossoms into a tentative romance, a surprising revelation about their pasts complicates their feelings, adding layers of emotional complexity to an otherwise simple plot.

What makes this film stand out is its meticulous portrayal of 1960s Japan. The animation vividly contrasts Yokohama’s sleepy seaside charm with the encroaching modernity of Tokyo, reflecting a nation caught between tradition and progress. The Latin Quarter, a chaotic yet vibrant hub of student activity, symbolizes the old Japan—rich with history but at risk of being erased for shiny new developments. This tension resonates deeply, as the students’ efforts to preserve their clubhouse mirror broader societal debates about heritage versus modernization. Critics have noted that the film’s historical accuracy, from the detailed architecture to the period-specific soundtrack featuring Kyu Sakamoto’s “Sukiyaki,” immerses viewers in a time machine-like experience, evoking a Japan on the cusp of transformation.

Visual and Emotional Craftsmanship

Studio Ghibli is renowned for its hand-drawn animation, and From Up on Poppy Hill is no exception. While some reviews suggest the animation lacks the fluidity of Hayao Miyazaki’s masterpieces, the film’s watercolor-like backgrounds and meticulous attention to detail—such as the bustling chaos of the Latin Quarter or the serene beauty of Umi’s coastal home—are breathtaking. The film’s aesthetic captures the warmth of everyday life, from Umi’s morning routine of preparing breakfast to the lively camaraderie of the students cleaning their clubhouse. These scenes, though mundane, are infused with a sense of wonder, proving that Ghibli’s magic doesn’t always require fantastical creatures.

The soundtrack, composed by Satoshi Takebe, complements the visuals with a mix of jazzy, upbeat tunes and melancholic melodies that underscore the film’s nostalgic tone. The use of period-appropriate music, including traditional Japanese songs, enhances the historical setting, while the English dub, featuring voices like Sarah Bolger and Anton Yelchin, adds warmth and authenticity to the characters’ interactions.

Emotionally, the film strikes a delicate balance between heartwarming and heartbreaking. Umi is a standout protagonist—responsible, independent, and quietly strong, embodying the archetype of Ghibli’s empowered young women. Her budding romance with Shun is sweet and unforced, but it’s the subplot involving their shared past that adds an unexpected twist. Without spoiling, this plot point—while initially shocking—resolves in a way that avoids sensationalism, focusing instead on the characters’ emotional growth. Some viewers found this twist contrived or unsettling, but it serves to deepen the film’s exploration of identity and family in the shadow of war’s lingering trauma.

Gorō Miyazaki’s Directorial Evolution

Gorō Miyazaki, directing his second feature after the polarizing Tales from Earthsea, shows significant growth in From Up on Poppy Hill. While his debut was criticized for its clunky narrative, this film benefits from a tighter, more focused story, thanks in part to Hayao Miyazaki’s screenplay. Gorō’s direction leans into simplicity, allowing the characters and setting to shine without overreaching. Critics have praised his ability to craft a “relaxed, slow-paced” drama that feels authentic, even if it doesn’t match the grandeur of his father’s work.

However, some reviews argue that Gorō’s inexperience shows in occasional pacing issues and static scenes, and the film’s lack of fantastical elements makes it feel like a missed opportunity for Ghibli’s signature whimsy. Others counter that this realism is precisely what makes the film unique, offering a grounded counterpoint to the studio’s more fantastical fare. As one reviewer noted, “The magic is found in the everyday details of domestic life,” a sentiment that captures the film’s quiet charm.

Strengths and Shortcomings

Strengths:

• Historical and Cultural Depth: The film’s depiction of 1960s Japan, with its blend of nostalgia and forward-looking optimism, offers a rich cultural lesson. The students’ fight to save the Latin Quarter reflects real-world tensions about progress and preservation, making it relatable across cultures.
• Relatable Characters: Umi and Shun are likable and authentic, their romance unfolding naturally amidst their shared goal. The supporting cast, including the eccentric boarders and passionate club members, adds humor and warmth.
• Visual Beauty: The hand-drawn animation, while not as dynamic as some Ghibli classics, is lush and evocative, capturing the essence of a bygone era.
• Emotional Resonance: The film balances lighthearted moments with poignant reflections on loss, identity, and the scars of war, making it accessible to both teens and adults.

Shortcomings:

• Pacing and Plot Simplicity: Some viewers find the story slow or predictable, with a second half that leans heavily on melodrama rather than the clubhouse conflict. The resolution of certain subplots feels rushed or overly convenient.
• Lack of Ghibli’s Signature Magic: Without fantastical elements, the film feels less ambitious than Ghibli’s best, potentially disappointing fans expecting epic storytelling.
• Controversial Subplot: The twist involving Umi and Shun’s relationship, while resolved, unsettles some viewers and may confuse younger audiences.

Why It Stands Out

From Up on Poppy Hill is unique in the Ghibli catalog for its grounded realism and historical specificity. Unlike the studio’s fantasy epics, it finds beauty in the ordinary—Umi’s daily chores, the chaotic charm of the Latin Quarter, the fleeting moments of young love. Its focus on Japan’s post-war recovery adds a layer of depth, inviting viewers to reflect on how personal and national histories intertwine. The film’s simplicity is its strength, offering a meditative escape that contrasts with the bombast of modern animation. As one X user put it, “It oozes character and personality in a rather mundane plot and setting,” a testament to Gorō Miyazaki’s ability to elevate a modest story.

For Ghibli fans, the film is a love letter to the studio’s quieter side, akin to Whisper of the Heart or Only Yesterday. For newcomers, it’s an accessible entry point, free of the fantastical barriers that might alienate those unfamiliar with anime. Its universal themes—friendship, resilience, and the pull of the past—make it a timeless watch, even if it doesn’t reach the heights of Ghibli’s masterpieces.

Who Should Watch It?

This film is ideal for:

• Ghibli Enthusiasts: Fans of the studio’s slice-of-life films will appreciate its nostalgic charm and strong female lead.
• History Buffs: Those interested in post-war Japan or 1960s culture will find its setting and themes engaging.
• Teens and Adults: The coming-of-age story and mild romantic elements suit older kids and adults, though younger viewers may miss some nuances.
• Animation Aficionados: The hand-drawn artistry is a must-see for those who value traditional animation over CGI.

Final Verdict

From Up on Poppy Hill is a gentle, heartfelt drama that trades Ghibli’s usual magic for a poignant slice of life. While it may not dazzle like Spirited Away or tug at the heartstrings like Grave of the Fireflies, its simplicity and historical richness make it a standout in its own right. Gorō Miyazaki proves he’s more than just his father’s son, delivering a film that’s as charming as it is reflective. With an 87% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 7.2/10 average score, it’s a critically respected work that invites viewers to savor the beauty of everyday moments. Whether you’re drawn to its nostalgic visuals, its tender romance, or its subtle commentary on progress, From Up on Poppy Hill is a hidden gem worth discovering.

Rating: 8/10
Available on Max, or for rent/purchase on Prime Video and Apple TV. For more details, check out studio Ghibli’s official site or explore fan discussions on platforms like Reddit.