Black Rose Anarchist Library & Bookshop

In the latter part of World War II, a boy and his sister, orphaned when their mother is killed in the firebombing of Tokyo, are left to survive on their own in what remains of civilian life in Japan. As the situation grows progressively worse in the war, things deteriorate proportionally on the homefront. We follow Seita and Setsuko as they do their best to survive in the Japanese countryside, battling hunger, prejudice, and pride in their own personal battle.

"Powerful," "moving," "touching," and "great" are words frequently used by people to describe movies, but this is one of the very few cases where they are most sincerely deserved. Simultaneously an allegory of human failings and a quiet but unflinching look at two children caught in the peripheral effects of a war, Grave of the Fireflies is one of the most painful and affecting movies you're ever likely to see, animated or otherwise. This movie is direct, honest, thought provoking, and worth watching by anyone. Just make sure you're ready for it before you start.

$5 suggested donation