Episode 173: Grave of the Fireflies

Oh yeah, we're doing it. And honestly, it took way too long for us to finally discuss this one, let alone anime in general. Grave of the Fireflies was only the third Studio Ghibli movie when it debuted in 1988, but it was just as powerful and evocative then as it still is today. So much so that a lot of people can only bring themselves to watch it once - but not us. A beautiful tragedy enveloped by incredible imagery, fantastic performances, and a deft hand in direction, Fireflies is well deserving of its perfect Rotten Tomatoes score. So grab your pickled plums and relax as we cover every second of this great film, plus dine-and-dashing, how Gen Z and Alpha feel about 9/11, what bugs smell like, and a lot more with returning guest Priscilla Hendry. Also, don't worry: we promise this episode isn't a bummer.

Grave of the Fireflies stars Tsutomu Tatsumi, Ayano Shiraishi, Yoshiko Shinohara, and Akemi Yamaguchi. Directed by Isao Takahata.

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