Experience one of Studio Ghibli’s most powerful films; a breathtaking blend of beauty and heartbreak. Grave of the Fireflies follows two young siblings trying to survive in Japan at the end of World War II. A film that lingers long after the credits roll.
Genre: anime, period drama (1988)
Language: Japanese, subtitles: English
Length: 1hr. 28 mins.
Japan, the summer of 1945. American B-29 bombers drop tons of bombs over Kobe. Fourteen-year-old Seita and his four-year-old sister Setsuko are left orphaned by the war. They find temporary shelter with their aunt, who makes no effort to hide her resentment, constantly reminding them that they are a burden and must work for every bowl of rice. Tired of her cruelty, Seita decides to take his little sister and survive on their own. What follows is an achingly beautiful and deeply human story that shows the harsh reality of war and the quiet strength of those who endure it.
Grave of the Fireflies has earned a reputation as one of the darkest, and most powerful, films ever made by Studio Ghibli. Director Isao Takahata, co-founder of Studio Ghibli, based the story partly on his own childhood. He survived the devastating air raid on his hometown of Okayama. With this masterpiece, rich in detail and impressionistic imagery, Takahata brings the impact of war painfully close, revealing not just destruction, but humanity, tenderness, and the unbreakable bond between a brother and sister.
Come and watch this timeless classic in the cozy setting of Filmhuis De Zwarte Doos.
Reviews
“Grave of the Fireflies … is the most haunting, heart-wrenching and tragic tale ever told on film … this isn’t a children’s movie, it’s a devastating war film” Cinephile fix
“The stylised images suit the simplicity and gravity of a grim story of love, sacrifice and survival in the face of adult indifference and cruelty” The Guardian
“The film is raw, challenging, and for several reasons is quite possibly one of the most unique war films that one might encounter in a life-time.” Traversing Tradition
Ticket information
This film will be shown at Filmhuis De Zwarte Doos.
- Tickets must be purchased online in advance and can be bought by clicking the black “Order” button on this page.
- Cash or card payments are not accepted at the ticket counter.
For more information about tickets, refund policies, and other details, click here.
Please be on time
The screening of the film begin promptly at 19:30 (with no pre-film advertisements), and the cinema hall will open at 19:10. We kindly request that you arrive at the ticket counter at least 10 minutes before the start of the film to ensure a smooth and timely experience for all.
The Studium Generale film program is created in collaboration with the Student Film Committee and Natlab.