Taku Morisaki and Yutaka Matsuno were the best of friends... until Rikako Muto
came along. Matsuno has been attracted to Rikako ever since the first time he
saw her, but Rikako seems more drawn to Morisaki. Morisaki thinks of Rikako as
nothing more than a nuisance... but is that how he really feels?
Review: Ocean Waves
The Ocean Waves is Studio Ghibli's take on a coming-of-age anime, featuring
characters, events, and emotions that are so real you'd feel that at one point
you or someone you know had experienced them too.
Taku Morisaki is on his way back to his hometown Kochi for a high school
reunion. He remembers how his life was changed forever by a girl named Rikako.
Taku narrates as he recalls how he met Rikako and what had transpired between
him, Rikako, and his best friend Matsuno. It's kind of like a less angsty and
more pragmatic episode of Dawson's Creek... but a lot more tasteful and better
done in all aspects.
What I liked best about Ocean Waves anime was the characterization. Just about
anyone can identify with Morisaki, Matsuno, and Rikako. They're regular
people. They're not perfect. They have problems and issues just like everyone
else.
The visuals are impeccable, as can be expected of a Studio Ghibli release. As
usual, character designs are simplistic but everything else from foliage to
vehicles are stunningly detailed. Each scene is meticulously composed with
just the right combination of elements, punctuated with an appropriate piano
score.
The Ocean Waves movie is an elegant piece, offering a wistful trip down memory lane for
virtually anyone who's ever been in high school. It's something along the
lines of "Whisper of the Heart", and even "Boys Be..." to a certain extent.
Recommended for those who are into realistic anime.
Miscellanies: Ocean Waves
The Ocean Waves (I Can Hear The Sea) is about an hour long, since it was made for TV. It has not yet
been released in the United States.
The Ocean Waves (Umi ga Kikoeru) | |
| Genre | Drama, Romance, Slice of Life |
|---|---|
| Episodes | 1 |
| Status | Finished Airing |
| Aired | May 5, 1993 |
| Producers | J.C.Staff |
| Studio | Studio Ghibli |
| Rating | PG-13 - Teens 13 or older |
| Themes | School |
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