THIS VIDEO IS A RE-UPLOAD: The Tales from Earthsea video was taken down a couple of months ago thanks to a copyright claim. I've since reworked the video and removed the offending content.
Thank you for re-uploading your critique, it's good to listen to it again, it reminded me of something. I also understand now, that Goro Miyazaki gave it his best shot, even though I have never seen the film as a failure, it's another of those, that I can not forget.
A couple of very long cuts and some unedited music. If a clip goes over a certain amount of time it gets flagged and automatically taken down. So I chopped it up and remixed some of the music.
I have seen Earthsea, and it is a beautiful film, and long and at times confusing. It reminded me of Nausica. In the end I enjoyed it. But hearing the abuse Miayzaki put his son through was sad. I am glad that his son did not stop making films. Poppy Hill was excellent and it shows that if a parent gives a child some room to be their own person their talent blossoms. This is the third video essay I have watched from you in two days. I find your critique on the anime genre refreshing. Most reviewers confuse critique with negative views, which is so boorish. I appreciate well rounded and ground views. Thank you.
If you liked this, I can recommend Ronja the Robber's Daughter. Another Goro Miyazaki project, based on a book by Astrid Lindgren (Pippi Longstocking). en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ronja,_the_Robber%27s_Daughter_(TV_series)
Nausicaa is slow and long. I get bored at first but I love it dearly at the end because of its cohesiveness. I love how the world is built up for us to follow and sink in and how each character acts accordingly in their world. They have clear stand and purpose to deliver main concept and theme.
I can only imagine the strain being born under Miyazis name could be. Hearing that he left his son's movie to go smoke and that it felt like forever was really a punch in the gut. Through all the empathy and kindness that Miyazaki puts into his works, he seems very blind to it with his son. That struggle felt between them is something that hurts me to see.
Hayao is to blame for the movie not being a better story by not helping Goro in it's direction. After wanting the rights for so long to just ignore the production was a stupid thing to do by Hayao. From Up on Poppy Hill shows what Goro was really capable of doing without hindrances.
Miyazaki was acting like a child and he admits it in a "making of Ponyo" documentary, he seemed angry and sad that Goro was projecting his parental issues in the movie and Miyazaki was aware of that, Im actually in the same position as Goro so I could relate a lot while I saw the movie
Hayao was against his son directing the film from the start, and he was right. Goro had no prior experience whatsoever and he got catapulted on top of a major film production from one of the biggest animation studios in Japan/the world. This is straight up nepotism. Hayao had to work hard for years before getting to direct a movie, and it took him several failures before gaining fame for his work. All in all we can't blame Goro because doing animation was his dream so it was an offer he couldn't refuse, but Hayao was right all along, everybody knew that Goro wasn't up to the task (yet). It was Toshio Suzuki (the producer) who had the idea to let Goro direct a Ghibli production, so it's partly his fault
@Alex Arviso I don't think that's what they are saying. Just it's a shame, he worked so hard to get the rights and He and His son both loved the books, imagine what they could have done together.
This is my favourite Ghibli movie. It gives me a sense of calm like no other, no matter what anyone says. It's also what got me to know the Earthsea books.
my German teacher recommended the earthsea books to me. as soon as I read the blurb I knew I had heard of something like this before. I loved its asthestics, but couldn't get it the first time round.
Yes dude me too.. İf I didnt see this movie probably I wont know the earthsea series.Such a great work.Rest in peace Ursula..Thank you for this masterpiece.
His son could have simply adapted the book in such a way as to honor the spirit of the narrative. Instead he tried to work out emotions he wasn't adequately prepared to grapple with.
I think Tales of Earthsea is too big and complex to be reduced to a single movie. Miyazaki the Younger should never have been given such a difficult task for his first production. And Earthsea should have been adapted as a single story from the series rather than a compilation of vignettes from all the books. He was much better on "Poppy Hill" and "Ronja" was brilliant. I think he has a great career ahead of him.
Morgan Allen It was the Ghibli producer Suzuki that wanted Goro to direct the film. Goro was very reluctant to direct the film. Although Earthsea wasn’t the best, it was decent and had beautiful animation. It also led a Goro on a path to creating better films such as From Up on Poppy Hill. I hate it when people say that Goro should have seen that he couldn’t direct. There were clearly emotional issues that affected his choice to direct, such as Hayao basically abandoning him for years, leaving him with extreme pressure from having to live up to him, and pressure from the producer and Ghibli staff. And like his father he is very prideful and hard-headed, but that is a good thing because he would go on to produce better films that could live up to his fathers’.
The first ghost in the shell movie works well as an original story and a standalone movie despite the source material being something like eight volumes long. It made huge changes and became it's own thing. This is really the best approach of you're going to try and adapt a huge series into a single movie...
This movie wasn't a flop, like at all. It was just the Ghibli film that has earned the least. Making 20 million dollars profit from the box office is a success for most films; plus the additional money made from the home media release. Man, I'd love to make a mere 20 million dollar profit, and have that be the closest I come to failing.
DeepPastry this is a bajillion years late, but I think that the budget behind the movie was around $23 million. The proceeds from the releases weren’t enough to cover the amount that was spent. I think that the studio was more disappointed with the time and resources used than the actual money. Ghibli movies are usually in production for at least 4-5 years, and if I were someone that had spent that amount of time and effort into a project, I would also be disappointed that it wasn’t as well received as other Ghibli projects. I do agree with the fact that just because something isn’t as successful as another doesn’t mean that it’s bad. That’s how cult followings of media are started. Twin Peaks was canceled after it’s second season because it was financially unsustainable for ABC, but now it’s considered one of the best tv shows ever made. And, probably even better, it’s influenced everything from Zelda: Link’s Awakening to Stranger Things Maybe in the future Tales From Earthsea will be in a similar situation. I mean, stranger things have happened in the world.
@@quackerjack0118 The proceeds from just its theatrical run were close to 69 million dollars. Double the cost of production usually gives a good cost estimate of the ad campaign. So this movie made around 20 million in profits. And that's before the blu-ray/DVD release.
DeepPastry huh it’s strange. One source says that domestic rev was $40,000ish on opening weekend and another says it was $7 million. I think there was another theatrical release in 2010, so maybe the numbers are messed up because of that lol. Either that or I’m confusing dollars and yen. It does seem like viewers are willing to give the film a second chance, though, which is really nice. I think people are starting to respect Goro ‘s work more and more.
I love actually how quiet and slow the movie is. Lets me breathe and immerse in this particular world. Such an atypical sentiment I've never experienced in another movie outside of Goro's works.
In a way, the removal of this video was a blessing, because that way, through the new upload I discovered your wonderful video. Thank you so much for saying such positive things about Gedo Senki ♥ I adore the movie, despite what everyone says. It was also what got me curious about the novels it was inspired by and this year I finally got to read them all and fell in love with the world of Earthsea. While reading them, I also recognized many things I had previously seen in the anime and it was a joy to get to know Ged even better.
true, i would never knew this review or the novel for it matter if not for the re-upload -_-. Sad truth is that my country don't have love for books so it hard to know good series. I watched the movie and that's it (big ghibli fan here), don't know the source material.
@@loturzelrestaurant well the fact is that it only has the negative perception because book readers were butthurt with how little it took from the books despite howls moving castle doing the same thing while being more confusing. This movie being "bad" is simply subjective
@@suicidalparrot Anime is not terrible and loving anime is not something wrong.If you don't like anime or something from Japan please keep it only to yourself.
"He should never make a movie again" yeah right... he has probably made the best series about friendship and nature ever made into an eastern animation in recent years, Ronja was perfect, it is probably a new thing as well. Honestly I liked the Tales from Earthsea, it was a little rough around the edges but it was really well done. Gedo has that, more direct and honest, dense and on point feel to his movies while his father takes the other route of being more "magical" and "in the moment" by fully utilizing the medium of animation. The only issue with Gedo's works thus far was exactly that, he did not fully utilize his tools to express the story dynamically and that was the only reason he did not get awarded over his father's work. He simply did not make what most people would want to see, he instead created what he wanted to express through a movie and that is what art is actually for, expressing inner and outer worlds with the help if a tool or medium. His work is actually really good, watched and read Ronja's other adaptations and Gedo's is actually the one that stands out and has the most "spirit" in it, so much so that I wouldnt really mind the 3D aspects of it, they are well done, I would appreciate more frames per second when it comes to 3D work though regardless. So far, all I can say for Gedo's work is that it is... different, its grounded and actually in a good way I would say.
I watched it yesterday. I reaaally wanted to like it but i couldn't fake it. It starts interesting but i stopped caring after a while. The artwork is beautiful, except the dragons
I always had a strange fondness for this film, even if its flaws were very clear to me: As someone unfamiliar with the novels, I failed to see a set plot in the film, just events that didn't make sense. It got drawn-out, sometimes. Clearly too condensed, in others. But I still had this inexplicable warmth for it, despite the panning reception everywhere; and as you bring up with "Poppy Hill" and "Ronja", Miyazaki jr. went on to prove that it there's more to his skills than the name of his father. Thank you for this lovely video.
I actually liked the movie. I've never read the books but always wanted to. But kind of ironic that Hayao didn't like the way Goro adapted the story, when you look at Howl's moving castle that Hayao made, which only contains 2/10th of the original story. He also totally changed most of the characters from the story. The only one in the film that is mostly like the character in the books is Sophie. The rest has been completely changed or removed. Still a great movie, but it is as far from the real book by Diana Wynne Jones as it possibly can get. ***Slight spoilers*** The castle is an *actual* castle made from dark/black stones but magically shifts places, Calcifer is blueish green and scary looking (like he does when they change the interior of the house in the film), Michael/Markl, is not a child but a teenage boy, Sophie has 2 sisters, not only one (and they are both way more involved in the story in the books), Howl is not what he seems like (but he is not a bird beast like in the movie), Sophie can do magic, there is *NOT* a war between kingdoms, Sophie's stepmother is actually a nice lady, not a backstapper, the Wizard Suliman is a MAN, named BEN Suliman and he has gone missing in the beginning of the book, The Witch of the Waste is actually like pure evil and scary and does not turn into a lovable old lady. And a ton of other stuff. The book is actually really really great and is the first book of a trilogy called The Castle Series/The Howl Series; Howl's Moving Castle, Castle in the Air, and House of Many ways. Personally I don't like the second book much, but Howl's Moving Castle and House of Many Ways are amazing.
Tales af Earthsea, despite its faults, will always held a special place in my heart for being the first movie that introduced me to the wonderful world of Studio Ghibli.
I went into the movie without knowing the books, when i saw the main cover i expected to see the dragon many times, not just at the ending. Still liked the movie because of the dark twist with the prince and the sword. Still think many people were like me and excepting something different.
Just watched the film yesterday, and remembered seeing this video in my recommended. It was very well done. I learned a lot of new things, and felt a lot of emotion. Thank you.
Adapting a well loved book into a movie has always been one of the most challenging things to do in movie-making, no less condensing a whole series into a single movie. Lord of the Rings got 3 movies out of 3 books and was still super condensed. I don't understand why they would put such a daunting task on a person who has never directed a film before. That said, the movie was truly confusing and tiring to watch. I'm glad Goro didn't stop directing though. From up on Poppy Hill was a fantastic movie.
To be honest, I really like the overall visual aspect of this particular Ghibli film. The vast landscapes and the athmosphere connected to them are captured very well in my opinon. Stunningly beautiful at times. The soundtrack with its Galician folk influences - thanks to Carlos Núñez Muñoz - and its partial Norwegian (Hardanger fiddle) and Irish folk influences makes for a very beautiful mix of different styles that are amalgamated into something that goes together very well. It's one of Ghibli's best soundtracks. My main criticism with this movie is the fact that it's full of big plotholes and a ton of unexplained stuff. I've never read the novels, so I was quite confused when I watched it for the first time since the characters' motivations aren't fully developed at all.
When I was younger, I loved this movie so much that I performed Teru's song in my school talent show. Tales From Earthsea remains one of my favourite movies and stories. Now I must read the boookss.
To know a things name is to have complete understanding of that thing, and to know a persons name gives you power over them and there are those who know when theyre names a spoken and will not be happy that you know them, The KingKiller found that out the hard way
As someone who hasn’t seen any other Ghibli films, this is my favorite animated movie, mostly because of the mix between the dark themes and the calm, uplifting aesthetic, and I don’t really care about faithfulness to the books because I’ve never even heard of them
Wonderful! Thankyou for sharing this heartfelt video. I love Earth sea, and admire its struggle! It gives a picture of life with all its diversity. It is long, yes! But it has alot to say, and to teach us. Endurance, courage falling down! But more importantly getting back up! Dark in parts, but life in general is light and darkness and learning to overcome one's demons. Thank you once again for your download, much appreciated. Moira From England.
Tales of Earthsea was one of the best anime I've ever watched. It was also very nice that the director made his own adaptation. Even though I love faithful adaptations, it was also nice to see parts and scenes of a book I read in that atmosphere. Thanks for everything Studio Ghibli. We love all off you.
This might be a weaker Ghibli movie, but still, some of the stuff is really good. It is definitely a huge project and big responsibility for a debut works. I like Poppy Hill and thought that it is as good as many other Ghibli movies. I'm not sure what Goro is doing right now but would definitely love to see more of his works in future.
I actually really enjoyed this movie, and I think that Goro did an awesome job with no prior experience. I actually wrote a paper on this while studying animation in school talking about the strain we animators put on ourselves and in return the strain that gets put ON us from the public eye. And although it wasn't a perfect movie, it was by no means the worst.
I'm so glad you re-uploaded this, on Christmas no less! This video holds a special place in my heart, and I'm so excited for what next year will bring for this channel
Earthsea is so good. I loved it from start to finish, and one of the best Ghibli films. I have to say I don't really like Miyazaki as a person, he seems like a very harsh, and angry person, but I do like his ability to make a film.
I am so glad you re-uploaded! This critique actually inspired me to buy and read the whole Earthsea series. I am very glad I did! You made me rethink my opinion about the film as well, since after reading the series and this critique, rewatching the movie is much much better. It is like day and night!
I am watching this movie in parts because I don't want it to end, this was a major undertaking for Goro and he made of it a beautiful movie worth of praise and recognition without a doubt but is hard to live under such giant like Hayao, I wish Goro keeps doing more movies this one is just amazing.
Watched this on tv a very long time back and even though i was too young to understand it, it gave me a unique and indescribable sense of serenity and calm. For some reason, it tugged at my heartstrings and gave me goosebumps all over. Back then, I didn’t know the name but still remembered the movie deeply. When I rediscovered it years later by pure chance, it gave me a great sense of nostalgia and feels. Honestly a beautiful ghibli animation which will always hold a special place in my heart, regardless of the negative reviews. A failed project maybe, but in my eyes, a spectacular, breathtaking piece which introduced me to the world of ghibli.
This film scared me shitless when I first watched it at 10, I still have difficulties even thinking about it, especially the part about the drugs and the end when the witch/wizard (depends on the traduction) transfigures . Thanks for the vid, it was interesting, but I hate you for the awakened trauma it brought
I am delighted to hear that there's such an Earthsea fandom in Japan; these stories are indeed a gift, and an exquisitely beautiful gift. I grew up as a child in the 1970's, and read the first three books of the Earthsea cycle then. Eventually, Tolkien's work cemented my love for epic fantasy, but it was Ursula K. Le Guin that lit that fire first. Some of my own creativity was directly influenced by her work. I think Ursula K. Le Guin summed it up best in saying it was his movie, and not her books. I really need to see this thing in its entirety, but I was very unimpressed with the 'Sy-Fy' movie. The problem as I see it, is that whenever this saga gets tackled in media, everyone does THEIR version of Earthsea...they do NOT do Ursula K. Le Guin's version of Earthsea. As an author, I hold her in very heavy reverence alongside Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Lewis Carroll, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Jules Verne, Edgar Rice Burroughs, Robert E. Howard, and Lovecraft. You are NOT going to show anyone her characters and worlds better than she did. And there is of course also the issue of whitewashing the characters, which the Sy-Fy version also did. Earthsea deserves a wholly faithful big screen adaptation. It would be several movies, obviously, but we got our homage out for Tolkien, Carroll, Lewis, Burroughs post-2000. This can happen for Earthsea as well.
I just finished watching The Tales of Earthsea along with my sister. It was a childhood film I really loved and watched when I was a kid, I could particularly remember hearing Therru's song on those green pastures and I haven't really understood the film in full depth as I was just a little kid who enjoyed watching cartoons but this movie...it seems to have made its way through me even now. Now that I've grown and watched it again, I can quite grasp the meaning if not the tale of the movie, yes some pieces I still couldn't make out of but I figured it was better left as it is or maybe by reading Ms. Le Guin's books could I fully understand the story, but all in all I loved watching it again and it brought tears to my eyes, remembering those nostalgic memories. I would like to give my thanks because while watching this, I could be enlightened on why this movie needs to be given a second chance and reading critics or articles about didn't settle well with me, I want to be told and explained what happened to this movie. This as well brought tears to my eyes. It expresses what truly needs to be heard about The Tales of Earthsea.
I liked Tales from Earthsea in spite of itself and I LOVED the music. The music alone was made the film worthwhile and Theru's song, sung by Miss Aoi Teshima, broke my heart in all the right ways. I like the movie and bought it on blu-ray as soon as it was released. I watch it at least once a year.
Tales from earthsea is one of my favourite films, for me is always spoken to finding the joy in the simple things. It’s a calming, beautiful film. I think it’s a film that is very raw and people can take what they want from it. I always take find metaphors for depression in it.
It was really nice seeing this video again. A good friend of mine who read the series as a kid was one of those disappointed people when the movie finally came out in the states. I saw it as well having never read or even knew anything about Earthsea before hand and found while it's pacing and content was a bit odd/flawed it was still pretty good despite it's flaws. I'm going to be listening to the first book on Audible soon as I've been meaning to listen/read this series for awhile now after watching the Ghibli movie. Keep up the great work! I look forward to the Bebop episode.
For myself, I found 'Tales of Earthsea' very beautiful - I'd managed to read 'Shuna no Tabi' shortly before I had seen it, and therefore found the inclusion of its components (which also appear in 'Mononoke Hime') very poignant. There's a line of dialog which continues to haunt me, an admonishment by Ged to the antagonist *"What you are trying to do is impossible ! You are attempting to preserve a single wave on the face of the ocean"* I've got nothing but the highest regard for the film, and its story as told.
Thank you for this. I always had a soft spot for Goro's Earthsea, but would have trouble defending it to others. It obviously has its faults, but there are scenes that I really love in this movie.
Next to the anime, I wholeheartedly recommend reading the original work by Le Guin. It's an exquisite read. Sadly, the anime parted heavily from the novels, and Le Guin was not very happy about it, although she acknowledged the movie as a good movie. But it is not her novel. More on her response: www.ursulakleguin.com/GedoSenkiResponse.html All in all, she's basically the pioneer of sci-fi and fantasy genres as we know them today.
Thanks for editing and reposting the video “you” made. Because you did, I’m going to buy this movie and greatly appreciate it. Probably after I let my medically diagnosed depressed friend watch it. My friend Matta, who is living with depression, he praised me for buying and letting another coworker borrow “A Silent Voice” I hope he enjoys this and I know I will. I like from this video how both the father director and the writer of this story both say that the movie was not perfect but it was a good “Movie” my favorite quote is from the writer. True our demons can’t be cast away by a meer wave of a sword. Also the father, how much must have been crammed into the film demanding you attention when the audience my struggle to relate. I can’t wait...
I read the books when I was a teen. Today Im 35 years old and when I saw the movie I was frustrated. But your video showed me that I have to give the movie and Goro a second chance. Thanks for this lovely review. And one thing. You have a great voice-
I have gradually been working through your back catalogue. Thank you for giving me a new appreciation for this film. And, your voice is made for documentaries and other wonderful visual essays, so thank you for writing and sharing these brilliant videos. You are one of a kind!
@Eileen Farrar Many anime are inspired by British fiction. Even the sword the bunny girl rides in Daicon IV is from British scifi. But American fiction is an unusual source for an anime feature. There was a cop drama anime feature from the 80s that's inspired by American movies & tv.
Back in the good days, when the guys of Ghibli started woriking on anime, a lot of shows were based on western IPs, though not for feature films. Lensman is the only one that I can recall.
@@RyumaXtheXKing Yeah, there were several anime titles based on classic Western kids books, some of which only went to certain countries. Some went to Italy. Many western titles but really very few American. Keep in mind, too, that a lot of the US animation was jobbed out to Japan starting I think in the 60s. Rankin Bass animation is virtually anime.
It's about humanity itself. Humanity reached a point where we lost the essence of being human and our connection to existence. Fear brought us to this point. To deny death is to deny life. Life and death is one. Once we are aware that we will die someday, we will treat every moment of this life preciously. It's more than just a name.
I think more people need to do what I do. upon crossing the precipice, banish all expectations, throw out all hopes, break down all barriers, and leave yourself unguarded of both body and soul. because if you don't, you risk nothing and everything all at once. you risk being unaffected by the film, and it not having the impact on your fate you need it to have, irrevocable and entirely unnoticed until your later years. Too many people go into a movie with expectations and so they ruin it for themselves before they've even sat down to watch it. We must all learn to appreciate a film on its own merits as if it existed in a vacuum of isolation, alone. This is the reason so many directors make the choices they do.
Ged is a beast. In the book he 1. performs ancient magic he has no business even knowing about 2. builds himself a boat from scratch 3. Learns the true name of an ancient Dragon; as well as himself - whom he defeats. Oh; and I left out the part where he single-handedly defeats a raiding band of marauders; by using magic prior to really knowing any.
Here's a summary of the various elements taken from the books for those curious. -The basic plot of story is taken from the Farthest Shore: the Archmage and a prince traveling the world to find the source of the pestilence that's plaguing the world which turns out to be the wizard Cob, as well as a few lines and elements taken straight from the source material, especially the section in Hort Town. -The part with Therru and Tenar is essentially the basic gist of Tehanu instead of any specific moments like the Farthest Shore, as well as the manner of Ged and Tenar's attempted execution (defenestration) and how the villain is dealt with (dragon fire). -Arren's shadow is taken from A Wizard of Earthsea, though it's true nature differs between mediums. -the title seems to be taken from the short story collection.
While I wasn't the biggest fan of this movie, this video gave me some insight into its development and made me appreciate the movie more. I appreciate this video very much, thank you.
I actually loved Tales of Earthsea. Arren and Terru are two of my favorite characters, and I love the stunning detail of the movie, and the lesson it teaches about living your life to the best of your ability, knowing that someday you will die. I have never read the books, and after watching this movie I desperately want to. They are now firmly on my wishlist.
this movie was my childhood, i vaguely remembered it until i heard a song from it its a very underrated movie because it may not seem to make sense but it did to me somehow, idk how to explain it
For 4 decades Earthsea has been the benchmark of storytelling for me . Not even Ursula's own voice on audio book let alone the god awful mini series could add to the poetry of her words that bespoke such wondrous images to my mind. Tried watching this anime with what I realize now as prejudice expecting to be disappointed .If at the movies beginning something to the affect of this tale from afar has been passed down by a hundred generations etc and so may not be as the legend of your land I would have given it much more of a chance as I shall do soon . Thank you for opening my mind to what I hope to be a great pleasure
I believe Goro was given the role and responsibility of director too soon. Hayao had been writing and drawing manga, telling stories, and working in animation for years before he ever was trusted to helm his own movie. The sentiment that Goro was given the chair based solely on his name is apt, but I'm not saying he should never direct. I think Goro should have been given the opportunity to fail, but on a smaller scale. Writing manga, directing shorts, helming a miniseries, things like that. Ways for him to hone his craft that would not put him under the heavy scrutiny that comes from representing the Ghibli brand, something his father dedicated his life to building. It occurred to me that it may seem to avid fans of Ghibli (and Earthsea,) that Goro is dragging their reputation through the mud. And, perhaps he did. But I think it's as much the fault of those who put him in that position as it is his for his less-than-stellar execution of the movie. But all this is being said with a generous consideration for Goro as a developing director. By his own admission, animation is not something he ever intended to end up in. So if he does not care, and is not passionate in honing his craft, it would certainly dampen my support for him. But if he does care, and he avoided animation this whole time out of fear of living up to his father's legacy, and he truly does want to do his father proud and make great animation, then I say that he deserves the chance. Though, that chance should be scrupulously guided, and done in a way that he can fail and grow in a way where he does not feel embarrassed and stifled because the whole world is shaming him for not being as great as his father-yet.
Reviews such as this are rare. Although I have not seen the film, this review led me to wstch it on netflix. Thanks again for such an in-depth review. Looking forward to more from you.
Thank you for the heartfelt review. I take two main points away after watching and listening to all your words: a) Goro Miyazaki was clearly NOT the correct person to direct such a major piece - not because of a lack of talent, but because of a lack of EXPERIENCE; and b) Rather than sit through a 2 hour mishmash of 5 great novels, I will go back and read the novels I loved so much when I read them so many years ago....
I am a fan of this channel, the way, the voice in which the visions are enthralled in its videos.... and How beautifully the glory of anime and its contributions are highlighted . I pay my respect and Pranam to the creator.
Thank you for uploading and even re-uploading to get the content on UA-cam. I need it because I’m so confused after my first watch today. From the film: Story-telling wise, it isn’t good like you say weather or not you have read the books. Landscapes are magnificent and now I understand why. Beautiful and touching moments appear in the film too. However, theme doesn’t get introduced or elaborated enough although Goro really commits to it. It still makes sense to me and I can understand that it is difficult to compress such a deep concept. From human’s view: It’s natural to have expectations as audience, author, father and filmmaker but seems unfair to expect high bar from someone who has limited experience in the field. We can be more gentle. It would be nice, wouldn’t it?
This movie is amazing! Every single movie made by Studio Ghibli is amazing and you can clearly tell by the animation, graphics, music, storyline, and more
I saw Tales of Earth Sea many years ago when it was published and as many of Hayao's works I think it takes several revisits and the pass of time for it to develop in our minds, I think the movie's legacy will get richer with time, Goro is not his father, but he is himself, and I can appreciate that and still want to see more of it.
I was mesmerized when I watched a trailer of "Gedo Senki" in a pirated DVD of "The Rainbow Troops" (great movie btw), Therru's song got stuck in my head for years until the day I rediscovered the pirated DVD and realized the trailer was of a Ghibli movie, the movie was confusing but it left a deep impression in me.
I remember this being my only favorite movie as a child, the songs, scenes, and even the name brings back lost pieces of my childhood. I understand the plot even though it wasn't really explained well, and I doubt this movie wouldn't have many doubtful audiences if they added more details to the plot.
What a beautiful video! I started reading Ursula’s books a little while after she passed (the books I sometimes read in my studies of the Yurok language were written by I think her grandfather or father, and that reminded me that I had Voices on the shelf, so I read it and fell in love). I have yet to read the Earthsea series, but knowing how I love Ursula’s writing style and looking at what snippets of the plot I’ve gleaned from this video, I’m determined to get this series on my shelf too.
People are too tough on it. It is very faithful to the Ghibili style in visuals and story telling. You can not like this one as mush as the others for taste reasons, but objectively, it had an amazing music, absolutely incredible visuals, and the story was fine.
...I swear I thought LeGuin died years ago. 2018 has been too damn long and I’m ready for it to end oml. I do like that summation she initially gave the film tho. It really does sum up the movie’s relationship to the books. (Thought I am definitely in the crowd unhappy w the whitewashing, especially as one of the biggest parts of Earthsea’s legacy is its racial representation in a genre largely devoid of it.)
antiami People who don’t feel represented by the same white straight dudes in everything, that’s who cares. Also, diversity at its core gives us new stories that aren’t just retreads of existing material, and that’s always cool.
antiami Okay Mr Pedantic, they still made the main character pale when he’s expressly described as brown in the books. That’s still, at the very least, colorism at work, ffs. Also like, anime characters can be nationalities other than Japanese. Unless you really wanna tell me Edward Elric is Japanese when all context in FMA points to no on that. :|
antiami Anime is a medium and you can literally depict any race. Edward Elric is white, given the context clues of Amestris as well as his own background. Other characters such as Usagi, Madoka, Naota, etc are Japanese bc context clues for them. Like, holy crap.
antiami Dude, I know the psychology. Edward Elric is still white, just as Usagi and Madoka are Japanese. They’re in different contexts, jfc. Also, Avatar is absolutely an anime, fight me. ua-cam.com/video/uFtfDK39ZhI/v-deo.html
I saw your earlier iteration before it was removed by youtube. So, I thought I had a deja vu when viewing this one. Although... I thought there was something different about. Now I know. The first video was a little more dreamy, though. Great voice, great content!
I still place Tale from Earthsea as my 3rd favorite Ghibli film. While I know it’s got some flaws but the magic and the subtlety are so palpable. And I love this movie. I appreciate it for what it is and would love to see a new adaptation of the series.
THIS VIDEO IS A RE-UPLOAD: The Tales from Earthsea video was taken down a couple of months ago thanks to a copyright claim. I've since reworked the video and removed the offending content.
Thank you for re-uploading your critique, it's good to listen to it again, it reminded me of something. I also understand now, that Goro Miyazaki gave it his best shot, even though I have never seen the film as a failure, it's another of those, that I can not forget.
aha that explains a lot......
(i actually watched it after seeing your original)
thanks
Can I ask: what was the offending content?
A couple of very long cuts and some unedited music. If a clip goes over a certain amount of time it gets flagged and automatically taken down. So I chopped it up and remixed some of the music.
I have seen Earthsea, and it is a beautiful film, and long and at times confusing. It reminded me of Nausica. In the end I enjoyed it.
But hearing the abuse Miayzaki put his son through was sad.
I am glad that his son did not stop making films. Poppy Hill was excellent and it shows that if a parent gives a child some room to be their own person their talent blossoms.
This is the third video essay I have watched from you in two days. I find your critique on the anime genre refreshing. Most reviewers confuse critique with negative views, which is so boorish. I appreciate well rounded and ground views. Thank you.
Nausica was a coherent in world building while this one really wasn't, result in a very underwhelming feeling for me
If you liked this, I can recommend Ronja the Robber's Daughter. Another Goro Miyazaki project, based on a book by Astrid Lindgren (Pippi Longstocking).
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ronja,_the_Robber%27s_Daughter_(TV_series)
@@JustClaude13 Wow I didn't know about that one! My parents read that book to me when I was little
Nausicaa is slow and long. I get bored at first but I love it dearly at the end because of its cohesiveness. I love how the world is built up for us to follow and sink in and how each character acts accordingly in their world. They have clear stand and purpose to deliver main concept and theme.
Miyazaki is your classic emotionally incapable Japanese dad.
Hayao puts a complaining child in all his films, Goro puts a dead dad, either by patricide or boat bombing.
nice
Talk about family issues.
omfg, you soldier.
of course I would find you here.
That's a stretch...
I can only imagine the strain being born under Miyazis name could be. Hearing that he left his son's movie to go smoke and that it felt like forever was really a punch in the gut. Through all the empathy and kindness that Miyazaki puts into his works, he seems very blind to it with his son. That struggle felt between them is something that hurts me to see.
Hayao is to blame for the movie not being a better story by not helping Goro in it's direction. After wanting the rights for so long to just ignore the production was a stupid thing to do by Hayao. From Up on Poppy Hill shows what Goro was really capable of doing without hindrances.
Miyazaki was acting like a child and he admits it in a "making of Ponyo" documentary, he seemed angry and sad that Goro was projecting his parental issues in the movie and Miyazaki was aware of that, Im actually in the same position as Goro so I could relate a lot while I saw the movie
I wonder if Hayao was ultimately just upset that he wasn't making the movie himself, after wanting to for so long. That may have colored his behavior.
Hayao was against his son directing the film from the start, and he was right. Goro had no prior experience whatsoever and he got catapulted on top of a major film production from one of the biggest animation studios in Japan/the world. This is straight up nepotism. Hayao had to work hard for years before getting to direct a movie, and it took him several failures before gaining fame for his work.
All in all we can't blame Goro because doing animation was his dream so it was an offer he couldn't refuse, but Hayao was right all along, everybody knew that Goro wasn't up to the task (yet). It was Toshio Suzuki (the producer) who had the idea to let Goro direct a Ghibli production, so it's partly his fault
@Alex Arviso I don't think that's what they are saying. Just it's a shame, he worked so hard to get the rights and He and His son both loved the books, imagine what they could have done together.
Hayao did try and help Goro but Goro refused his help because of his own pride. It was shown in one of the documentaries I found on youtube.
This is my favourite Ghibli movie. It gives me a sense of calm like no other, no matter what anyone says. It's also what got me to know the Earthsea books.
my German teacher recommended the earthsea books to me. as soon as I read the blurb I knew I had heard of something like this before. I loved its asthestics, but couldn't get it the first time round.
Yes dude me too.. İf I didnt see this movie probably I wont know the earthsea series.Such a great work.Rest in peace Ursula..Thank you for this masterpiece.
While it’s not my all time favorite, I’m glad to see that others appreciate this movie for what it is
I really like it. Timothy Dalton is great for the dubb.
I totally forgot it was Cheech because he does such a good job as well .
Hayao sounds like the personified meme "high expectations asian father".
Its way worse than this Video
makes it out to be.
His son could have simply adapted the book in such a way as to honor the spirit of the narrative. Instead he tried to work out emotions he wasn't adequately prepared to grapple with.
Handsome bloke, though.
I think Tales of Earthsea is too big and complex to be reduced to a single movie. Miyazaki the Younger should never have been given such a difficult task for his first production.
And Earthsea should have been adapted as a single story from the series rather than a compilation of vignettes from all the books.
He was much better on "Poppy Hill" and "Ronja" was brilliant. I think he has a great career ahead of him.
@Morgan Allen I'm pretty sure that's not how it works. At any rate, such an endeavor was always doomed to fail.
Morgan Allen It was the Ghibli producer Suzuki that wanted Goro to direct the film. Goro was very reluctant to direct the film. Although Earthsea wasn’t the best, it was decent and had beautiful animation. It also led a Goro on a path to creating better films such as From Up on Poppy Hill. I hate it when people say that Goro should have seen that he couldn’t direct. There were clearly emotional issues that affected his choice to direct, such as Hayao basically abandoning him for years, leaving him with extreme pressure from having to live up to him, and pressure from the producer and Ghibli staff. And like his father he is very prideful and hard-headed, but that is a good thing because he would go on to produce better films that could live up to his fathers’.
Morgan Allen Just search up Tales of Earthsea (film) in Wikipedia. Hayao was too busy filming Howl’s, so Suzuki approaches Goro.
The first ghost in the shell movie works well as an original story and a standalone movie despite the source material being something like eight volumes long. It made huge changes and became it's own thing. This is really the best approach of you're going to try and adapt a huge series into a single movie...
This movie wasn't a flop, like at all. It was just the Ghibli film that has earned the least. Making 20 million dollars profit from the box office is a success for most films; plus the additional money made from the home media release. Man, I'd love to make a mere 20 million dollar profit, and have that be the closest I come to failing.
DeepPastry this is a bajillion years late, but I think that the budget behind the movie was around $23 million. The proceeds from the releases weren’t enough to cover the amount that was spent. I think that the studio was more disappointed with the time and resources used than the actual money. Ghibli movies are usually in production for at least 4-5 years, and if I were someone that had spent that amount of time and effort into a project, I would also be disappointed that it wasn’t as well received as other Ghibli projects.
I do agree with the fact that just because something isn’t as successful as another doesn’t mean that it’s bad. That’s how cult followings of media are started. Twin Peaks was canceled after it’s second season because it was financially unsustainable for ABC, but now it’s considered one of the best tv shows ever made. And, probably even better, it’s influenced everything from Zelda: Link’s Awakening to Stranger Things
Maybe in the future Tales From Earthsea will be in a similar situation. I mean, stranger things have happened in the world.
@@quackerjack0118 The proceeds from just its theatrical run were close to 69 million dollars. Double the cost of production usually gives a good cost estimate of the ad campaign. So this movie made around 20 million in profits. And that's before the blu-ray/DVD release.
DeepPastry huh it’s strange. One source says that domestic rev was $40,000ish on opening weekend and another says it was $7 million.
I think there was another theatrical release in 2010, so maybe the numbers are messed up because of that lol. Either that or I’m confusing dollars and yen.
It does seem like viewers are willing to give the film a second chance, though, which is really nice. I think people are starting to respect Goro ‘s work more and more.
@@quackerjack0118 Total boxoffice was close to $69 million, the breakdown doesn't really matter.
@@DeepPastry ROI matters.
I love actually how quiet and slow the movie is. Lets me breathe and immerse in this particular world.
Such an atypical sentiment I've never experienced in another movie outside of Goro's works.
I loved Tales from Earthsea it was by far my favorite ghibli movie, i actually had no idea anyone disliked it
All art is subjective in the end. Also it is a personal favorite of mine as well.
Because it’s not Earthsea and completely its source.
A pretty goddam good reason to dislike it.
It's peak Ghibli that doesn't have Hayao in it.
Why didn't Hayao Miyazaki wait until he finished Howl's moving caster before starting Tales from Earthsea if it was his dream to adapt it?
In a way, the removal of this video was a blessing, because that way, through the new upload I discovered your wonderful video. Thank you so much for saying such positive things about Gedo Senki ♥ I adore the movie, despite what everyone says. It was also what got me curious about the novels it was inspired by and this year I finally got to read them all and fell in love with the world of Earthsea. While reading them, I also recognized many things I had previously seen in the anime and it was a joy to get to know Ged even better.
true, i would never knew this review or the novel for it matter if not for the re-upload -_-. Sad truth is that my country don't have love for books so it hard to know good series. I watched the movie and that's it (big ghibli fan here), don't know the source material.
I do truly believe that this film should’ve gotten far higher praise than it did.
Its way worse than this Video
makes it out to be.
So youre objectively wrong, Daniel.
But thanks for your uneducated Opinion!
@@loturzelrestaurant I disagree
@@Shepardyuti Yeah, but no one gets to disagree with 'objective facts'.
@@loturzelrestaurant well the fact is that it only has the negative perception because book readers were butthurt with how little it took from the books despite howls moving castle doing the same thing while being more confusing. This movie being "bad" is simply subjective
Even being not as good as other Ghibli features, it is still way better than some "popular" western animations
i agree, they dont make animations like that here in the west
@@drunkenbuddhalaughingmonke8550 they dont make animation like that in the east anymore either lmao
ElderKingpin they do actually.
Hell, it's better than a lot of the terrible anime out there that people are obsessed with.
@@suicidalparrot Anime is not terrible and loving anime is not something wrong.If you don't like anime or something from Japan please keep it only to yourself.
"He should never make a movie again" yeah right... he has probably made the best series about friendship and nature ever made into an eastern animation in recent years, Ronja was perfect, it is probably a new thing as well.
Honestly I liked the Tales from Earthsea, it was a little rough around the edges but it was really well done.
Gedo has that, more direct and honest, dense and on point feel to his movies while his father takes the other route of being more "magical" and "in the moment" by fully utilizing the medium of animation. The only issue with Gedo's works thus far was exactly that, he did not fully utilize his tools to express the story dynamically and that was the only reason he did not get awarded over his father's work.
He simply did not make what most people would want to see, he instead created what he wanted to express through a movie and that is what art is actually for, expressing inner and outer worlds with the help if a tool or medium.
His work is actually really good, watched and read Ronja's other adaptations and Gedo's is actually the one that stands out and has the most "spirit" in it, so much so that I wouldnt really mind the 3D aspects of it, they are well done, I would appreciate more frames per second when it comes to 3D work though regardless.
So far, all I can say for Gedo's work is that it is... different, its grounded and actually in a good way I would say.
“Long live the king, indeed”, Love that line
wait people didnt like this one? It was always one of my favorites
Right? That's what I was thinking
It's generally considered the worst Ghibli movie.
I watched it yesterday. I reaaally wanted to like it but i couldn't fake it. It starts interesting but i stopped caring after a while. The artwork is beautiful, except the dragons
@@eliasbogdo u can have ur opinions
Me too
Just like his father's first movie (Castle of Cagliostro), Tales from Earthsea was actually really damn good and deserves much more credit.
I always had a strange fondness for this film, even if its flaws were very clear to me: As someone unfamiliar with the novels, I failed to see a set plot in the film, just events that didn't make sense. It got drawn-out, sometimes. Clearly too condensed, in others. But I still had this inexplicable warmth for it, despite the panning reception everywhere; and as you bring up with "Poppy Hill" and "Ronja", Miyazaki jr. went on to prove that it there's more to his skills than the name of his father.
Thank you for this lovely video.
this movie has morestraight forward plot then spirited away which in my eyes is not a coherent story but more of an art piece ahahah
I actually liked the movie. I've never read the books but always wanted to. But kind of ironic that Hayao didn't like the way Goro adapted the story, when you look at Howl's moving castle that Hayao made, which only contains 2/10th of the original story. He also totally changed most of the characters from the story. The only one in the film that is mostly like the character in the books is Sophie. The rest has been completely changed or removed. Still a great movie, but it is as far from the real book by Diana Wynne Jones as it possibly can get.
***Slight spoilers***
The castle is an *actual* castle made from dark/black stones but magically shifts places, Calcifer is blueish green and scary looking (like he does when they change the interior of the house in the film), Michael/Markl, is not a child but a teenage boy, Sophie has 2 sisters, not only one (and they are both way more involved in the story in the books), Howl is not what he seems like (but he is not a bird beast like in the movie), Sophie can do magic, there is *NOT* a war between kingdoms, Sophie's stepmother is actually a nice lady, not a backstapper, the Wizard Suliman is a MAN, named BEN Suliman and he has gone missing in the beginning of the book, The Witch of the Waste is actually like pure evil and scary and does not turn into a lovable old lady. And a ton of other stuff. The book is actually really really great and is the first book of a trilogy called The Castle Series/The Howl Series; Howl's Moving Castle, Castle in the Air, and House of Many ways. Personally I don't like the second book much, but Howl's Moving Castle and House of Many Ways are amazing.
Sounds like an amazing story, now I need to read the books.
@@cordialChaos591 Good idea. They're really great! --I've also found them as audiobooks here on youtube :)
Tales af Earthsea, despite its faults, will always held a special place in my heart for being the first movie that introduced me to the wonderful world of Studio Ghibli.
It's a Christmas Copyright miracle
I went into the movie without knowing the books, when i saw the main cover i expected to see the dragon many times, not just at the ending. Still liked the movie because of the dark twist with the prince and the sword.
Still think many people were like me and excepting something different.
"Say my name, so my powers may flow through you."
SHAZAM!
@@BeyondGhibli Wrong universe!
Just watched the film yesterday, and remembered seeing this video in my recommended.
It was very well done. I learned a lot of new things, and felt a lot of emotion. Thank you.
Adapting a well loved book into a movie has always been one of the most challenging things to do in movie-making, no less condensing a whole series into a single movie. Lord of the Rings got 3 movies out of 3 books and was still super condensed. I don't understand why they would put such a daunting task on a person who has never directed a film before. That said, the movie was truly confusing and tiring to watch.
I'm glad Goro didn't stop directing though. From up on Poppy Hill was a fantastic movie.
To be honest, I really like the overall visual aspect of this particular Ghibli film. The vast landscapes and the athmosphere connected to them are captured very well in my opinon. Stunningly beautiful at times. The soundtrack with its Galician folk influences - thanks to Carlos Núñez Muñoz - and its partial Norwegian (Hardanger fiddle) and Irish folk influences makes for a very beautiful mix of different styles that are amalgamated into something that goes together very well. It's one of Ghibli's best soundtracks.
My main criticism with this movie is the fact that it's full of big plotholes and a ton of unexplained stuff. I've never read the novels, so I was quite confused when I watched it for the first time since the characters' motivations aren't fully developed at all.
When I was younger, I loved this movie so much that I performed Teru's song in my school talent show. Tales From Earthsea remains one of my favourite movies and stories. Now I must read the boookss.
To know a things name is to have complete understanding of that thing, and to know a persons name gives you power over them and there are those who know when theyre names a spoken and will not be happy that you know them, The KingKiller found that out the hard way
I am glad im not the only one who thought that this film was actually pretty cool, I really liked it
As someone who hasn’t seen any other Ghibli films, this is my favorite animated movie, mostly because of the mix between the dark themes and the calm, uplifting aesthetic, and I don’t really care about faithfulness to the books because I’ve never even heard of them
The critics are insane. Tales of earthsea is one of my favourite studio ghibli movies.
Wonderful!
Thankyou for sharing this heartfelt video.
I love Earth sea, and admire its struggle!
It gives a picture of life with all its diversity.
It is long, yes! But it has alot to say, and to teach us.
Endurance, courage falling down! But more importantly getting back up!
Dark in parts, but life in general is light and darkness and learning to overcome one's demons.
Thank you once again for your download, much appreciated.
Moira
From England.
I've always liked the movie, maybe because I first saw it as a young child, but it still is a great movie imo
Tales of Earthsea was one of the best anime I've ever watched. It was also very nice that the director made his own adaptation. Even though I love faithful adaptations, it was also nice to see parts and scenes of a book I read in that atmosphere.
Thanks for everything Studio Ghibli. We love all off you.
This might be a weaker Ghibli movie, but still, some of the stuff is really good. It is definitely a huge project and big responsibility for a debut works. I like Poppy Hill and thought that it is as good as many other Ghibli movies. I'm not sure what Goro is doing right now but would definitely love to see more of his works in future.
I actually really enjoyed this movie, and I think that Goro did an awesome job with no prior experience. I actually wrote a paper on this while studying animation in school talking about the strain we animators put on ourselves and in return the strain that gets put ON us from the public eye. And although it wasn't a perfect movie, it was by no means the worst.
That last line about goro's experience vs. his fathers got me genuinely misty eyed. what a beautiful sentiment.
I love Studio Ghibli and I never knew Wizard of Earthsea was a Ghibli movie. Waaaaaaat
I'm so glad you re-uploaded this, on Christmas no less! This video holds a special place in my heart, and I'm so excited for what next year will bring for this channel
I liked Tales from Earthsea and I feel that Poppy Hill and Ronja the Robber's Daughter are just great. I hope Goro continues on with animation.
Earthsea is so good. I loved it from start to finish, and one of the best Ghibli films. I have to say I don't really like Miyazaki as a person, he seems like a very harsh, and angry person, but I do like his ability to make a film.
Thank you! I’m tired of not seeing this in any lists or seeing a lot of unappreciated for it I’m glad to see that someone feels the same way I do
I am so glad you re-uploaded! This critique actually inspired me to buy and read the whole Earthsea series. I am very glad I did! You made me rethink my opinion about the film as well, since after reading the series and this critique, rewatching the movie is much much better. It is like day and night!
I am watching this movie in parts because I don't want it to end, this was a major undertaking for Goro and he made of it a beautiful movie worth of praise and recognition without a doubt but is hard to live under such giant like Hayao, I wish Goro keeps doing more movies this one is just amazing.
Watched this on tv a very long time back and even though i was too young to understand it, it gave me a unique and indescribable sense of serenity and calm. For some reason, it tugged at my heartstrings and gave me goosebumps all over. Back then, I didn’t know the name but still remembered the movie deeply. When I rediscovered it years later by pure chance, it gave me a great sense of nostalgia and feels. Honestly a beautiful ghibli animation which will always hold a special place in my heart, regardless of the negative reviews. A failed project maybe, but in my eyes, a spectacular, breathtaking piece which introduced me to the world of ghibli.
This film scared me shitless when I first watched it at 10, I still have difficulties even thinking about it, especially the part about the drugs and the end when the witch/wizard (depends on the traduction) transfigures .
Thanks for the vid, it was interesting, but I hate you for the awakened trauma it brought
I am delighted to hear that there's such an Earthsea fandom in Japan; these stories are indeed a gift, and an exquisitely beautiful gift. I grew up as a child in the 1970's, and read the first three books of the Earthsea cycle then. Eventually, Tolkien's work cemented my love for epic fantasy, but it was Ursula K. Le Guin that lit that fire first. Some of my own creativity was directly influenced by her work.
I think Ursula K. Le Guin summed it up best in saying it was his movie, and not her books. I really need to see this thing in its entirety, but I was very unimpressed with the 'Sy-Fy' movie. The problem as I see it, is that whenever this saga gets tackled in media, everyone does THEIR version of Earthsea...they do NOT do Ursula K. Le Guin's version of Earthsea. As an author, I hold her in very heavy reverence alongside Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Lewis Carroll, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Jules Verne, Edgar Rice Burroughs, Robert E. Howard, and Lovecraft. You are NOT going to show anyone her characters and worlds better than she did.
And there is of course also the issue of whitewashing the characters, which the Sy-Fy version also did.
Earthsea deserves a wholly faithful big screen adaptation. It would be several movies, obviously, but we got our homage out for Tolkien, Carroll, Lewis, Burroughs post-2000. This can happen for Earthsea as well.
I just finished watching The Tales of Earthsea along with my sister. It was a childhood film I really loved and watched when I was a kid, I could particularly remember hearing Therru's song on those green pastures and I haven't really understood the film in full depth as I was just a little kid who enjoyed watching cartoons but this movie...it seems to have made its way through me even now. Now that I've grown and watched it again, I can quite grasp the meaning if not the tale of the movie, yes some pieces I still couldn't make out of but I figured it was better left as it is or maybe by reading Ms. Le Guin's books could I fully understand the story, but all in all I loved watching it again and it brought tears to my eyes, remembering those nostalgic memories. I would like to give my thanks because while watching this, I could be enlightened on why this movie needs to be given a second chance and reading critics or articles about didn't settle well with me, I want to be told and explained what happened to this movie. This as well brought tears to my eyes. It expresses what truly needs to be heard about The Tales of Earthsea.
I liked Tales from Earthsea in spite of itself and I LOVED the music. The music alone was made the film worthwhile and Theru's song, sung by Miss Aoi Teshima, broke my heart in all the right ways. I like the movie and bought it on blu-ray as soon as it was released. I watch it at least once a year.
Tales from earthsea is one of my favourite films, for me is always spoken to finding the joy in the simple things. It’s a calming, beautiful film. I think it’s a film that is very raw and people can take what they want from it. I always take find metaphors for depression in it.
It was really nice seeing this video again. A good friend of mine who read the series as a kid was one of those disappointed people when the movie finally came out in the states. I saw it as well having never read or even knew anything about Earthsea before hand and found while it's pacing and content was a bit odd/flawed it was still pretty good despite it's flaws. I'm going to be listening to the first book on Audible soon as I've been meaning to listen/read this series for awhile now after watching the Ghibli movie. Keep up the great work! I look forward to the Bebop episode.
For myself, I found 'Tales of Earthsea' very beautiful - I'd managed to read 'Shuna no Tabi' shortly before I had seen it, and therefore found the inclusion of its components (which also appear in 'Mononoke Hime') very poignant.
There's a line of dialog which continues to haunt me, an admonishment by Ged to the antagonist *"What you are trying to do is impossible ! You are attempting to preserve a single wave on the face of the ocean"*
I've got nothing but the highest regard for the film, and its story as told.
Terrific breakdown! I honestly scratched my head at parts of this movie, but you filled in a bunch of gaps for me!
Thank you for this. I always had a soft spot for Goro's Earthsea, but would have trouble defending it to others. It obviously has its faults, but there are scenes that I really love in this movie.
honestly from up on poppy hill, tales from earthsea and castle in the sky are my favourite Ghibli movies :(
Now I want to watch this. Despite the criticism I think I’d really like it.
Next to the anime, I wholeheartedly recommend reading the original work by Le Guin. It's an exquisite read. Sadly, the anime parted heavily from the novels, and Le Guin was not very happy about it, although she acknowledged the movie as a good movie. But it is not her novel. More on her response: www.ursulakleguin.com/GedoSenkiResponse.html All in all, she's basically the pioneer of sci-fi and fantasy genres as we know them today.
Thanks for editing and reposting the video “you” made. Because you did, I’m going to buy this movie and greatly appreciate it. Probably after I let my medically diagnosed depressed friend watch it. My friend Matta, who is living with depression, he praised me for buying and letting another coworker borrow “A Silent Voice” I hope he enjoys this and I know I will. I like from this video how both the father director and the writer of this story both say that the movie was not perfect but it was a good “Movie” my favorite quote is from the writer. True our demons can’t be cast away by a meer wave of a sword. Also the father, how much must have been crammed into the film demanding you attention when the audience my struggle to relate. I can’t wait...
I read the books when I was a teen. Today Im 35 years old and when I saw the movie I was frustrated. But your video showed me that I have to give the movie and Goro a second chance. Thanks for this lovely review.
And one thing. You have a great voice-
I have gradually been working through your back catalogue. Thank you for giving me a new appreciation for this film.
And, your voice is made for documentaries and other wonderful visual essays, so thank you for writing and sharing these brilliant videos. You are one of a kind!
An anime feature based on an American novel. I'm having trouble recalling another example of that.
@Eileen Farrar Many anime are inspired by British fiction. Even the sword the bunny girl rides in Daicon IV is from British scifi. But American fiction is an unusual source for an anime feature. There was a cop drama anime feature from the 80s that's inspired by American movies & tv.
Heidi of the alps
@@juancgonzalez2102 Heidi was written by a Swiss author.
Back in the good days, when the guys of Ghibli started woriking on anime, a lot of shows were based on western IPs, though not for feature films. Lensman is the only one that I can recall.
@@RyumaXtheXKing Yeah, there were several anime titles based on classic Western kids books, some of which only went to certain countries. Some went to Italy. Many western titles but really very few American.
Keep in mind, too, that a lot of the US animation was jobbed out to Japan starting I think in the 60s. Rankin Bass animation is virtually anime.
It's about humanity itself. Humanity reached a point where we lost the essence of being human and our connection to existence. Fear brought us to this point. To deny death is to deny life. Life and death is one. Once we are aware that we will die someday, we will treat every moment of this life preciously. It's more than just a name.
I think more people need to do what I do. upon crossing the precipice, banish all expectations, throw out all hopes, break down all barriers, and leave yourself unguarded of both body and soul. because if you don't, you risk nothing and everything all at once. you risk being unaffected by the film, and it not having the impact on your fate you need it to have, irrevocable and entirely unnoticed until your later years. Too many people go into a movie with expectations and so they ruin it for themselves before they've even sat down to watch it. We must all learn to appreciate a film on its own merits as if it existed in a vacuum of isolation, alone. This is the reason so many directors make the choices they do.
Ged is a beast.
In the book he
1. performs ancient magic he has no business even knowing about
2. builds himself a boat from scratch
3. Learns the true name of an ancient Dragon; as well as himself - whom he defeats.
Oh; and I left out the part where he single-handedly defeats a raiding band of marauders; by using magic prior to really knowing any.
I remember being confused by this movie, but still liking it. I had no idea but it's tumultuous history until recently.
I don't care what anyone else says. I love it. One of the best.
Here's a summary of the various elements taken from the books for those curious.
-The basic plot of story is taken from the Farthest Shore: the Archmage and a prince traveling the world to find the source of the pestilence that's plaguing the world which turns out to be the wizard Cob, as well as a few lines and elements taken straight from the source material, especially the section in Hort Town.
-The part with Therru and Tenar is essentially the basic gist of Tehanu instead of any specific moments like the Farthest Shore, as well as the manner of Ged and Tenar's attempted execution (defenestration) and how the villain is dealt with (dragon fire).
-Arren's shadow is taken from A Wizard of Earthsea, though it's true nature differs between mediums.
-the title seems to be taken from the short story collection.
i dont remember when i watched the film, but i remember i adored it.
I'm sad that I found this video through Earwig reviews. Poor Goro can't catch a break.
I don't care if this a re-upload, I'm watching it all again!
I'm so glad he wasn't deterred from making movies because From Up On Poppy Hill is one of my favourites.
Thank you for this re-upload, i was around for the original upload, and i'll re-like this video as i have done for the original.
While I wasn't the biggest fan of this movie, this video gave me some insight into its development and made me appreciate the movie more. I appreciate this video very much, thank you.
I've been lokking for this music for months. Then you go and talk over it.
Thanks. That really helps.
I actually loved Tales of Earthsea. Arren and Terru are two of my favorite characters, and I love the stunning detail of the movie, and the lesson it teaches about living your life to the best of your ability, knowing that someday you will die. I have never read the books, and after watching this movie I desperately want to. They are now firmly on my wishlist.
this movie was my childhood, i vaguely remembered it until i heard a song from it
its a very underrated movie because it may not seem to make sense but it did to me somehow, idk how to explain it
For 4 decades Earthsea has been the benchmark of storytelling for me . Not even Ursula's own voice on audio book let alone the god awful mini series could add to the poetry of her words that bespoke such wondrous images to my mind. Tried watching this anime with what I realize now as prejudice expecting to be disappointed .If at the movies beginning something to the affect of this tale from afar has been passed down by a hundred generations etc and so may not be as the legend of your land I would have given it much more of a chance as I shall do soon . Thank you for opening my mind to what I hope to be a great pleasure
I believe Goro was given the role and responsibility of director too soon. Hayao had been writing and drawing manga, telling stories, and working in animation for years before he ever was trusted to helm his own movie. The sentiment that Goro was given the chair based solely on his name is apt, but I'm not saying he should never direct. I think Goro should have been given the opportunity to fail, but on a smaller scale. Writing manga, directing shorts, helming a miniseries, things like that. Ways for him to hone his craft that would not put him under the heavy scrutiny that comes from representing the Ghibli brand, something his father dedicated his life to building. It occurred to me that it may seem to avid fans of Ghibli (and Earthsea,) that Goro is dragging their reputation through the mud. And, perhaps he did. But I think it's as much the fault of those who put him in that position as it is his for his less-than-stellar execution of the movie. But all this is being said with a generous consideration for Goro as a developing director. By his own admission, animation is not something he ever intended to end up in. So if he does not care, and is not passionate in honing his craft, it would certainly dampen my support for him. But if he does care, and he avoided animation this whole time out of fear of living up to his father's legacy, and he truly does want to do his father proud and make great animation, then I say that he deserves the chance. Though, that chance should be scrupulously guided, and done in a way that he can fail and grow in a way where he does not feel embarrassed and stifled because the whole world is shaming him for not being as great as his father-yet.
Reviews such as this are rare. Although I have not seen the film, this review led me to wstch it on netflix. Thanks again for such an in-depth review. Looking forward to more from you.
Thank you for the heartfelt review. I take two main points away after watching and listening to all your words:
a) Goro Miyazaki was clearly NOT the correct person to direct such a major piece - not because of a lack of talent, but because of a lack of EXPERIENCE; and
b) Rather than sit through a 2 hour mishmash of 5 great novels, I will go back and read the novels I loved so much when I read them so many years ago....
I am a fan of this channel, the way, the voice in which the visions are enthralled in its videos.... and How beautifully the glory of anime and its contributions are highlighted . I pay my respect and Pranam to the creator.
Thank you for uploading and even re-uploading to get the content on UA-cam. I need it because I’m so confused after my first watch today.
From the film:
Story-telling wise, it isn’t good like you say weather or not you have read the books. Landscapes are magnificent and now I understand why. Beautiful and touching moments appear in the film too. However, theme doesn’t get introduced or elaborated enough although Goro really commits to it. It still makes sense to me and I can understand that it is difficult to compress such a deep concept.
From human’s view:
It’s natural to have expectations as audience, author, father and filmmaker but seems unfair to expect high bar from someone who has limited experience in the field. We can be more gentle. It would be nice, wouldn’t it?
It's actually one of the few ghibli movies I can say I genuinely enjoyed.
This movie is amazing! Every single movie made by Studio Ghibli is amazing and you can clearly tell by the animation, graphics, music, storyline, and more
I saw Tales of Earth Sea many years ago when it was published and as many of Hayao's works I think it takes several revisits and the pass of time for it to develop in our minds, I think the movie's legacy will get richer with time, Goro is not his father, but he is himself, and I can appreciate that and still want to see more of it.
Damn this is the last time I'm listening to film critics like Rotten Tomatoes.
their shenanigans with captain marvel and other movies have turned me away from them xD
And the Chappelle special. 0% vs 97% or something.
I was mesmerized when I watched a trailer of "Gedo Senki" in a pirated DVD of "The Rainbow Troops" (great movie btw), Therru's song got stuck in my head for years until the day I rediscovered the pirated DVD and realized the trailer was of a Ghibli movie, the movie was confusing but it left a deep impression in me.
I haven't heard about Earthsea or its author at all before watching this movie.
I remember this being my only favorite movie as a child, the songs, scenes, and even the name brings back lost pieces of my childhood. I understand the plot even though it wasn't really explained well, and I doubt this movie wouldn't have many doubtful audiences if they added more details to the plot.
I'm happy I'm not the only one who's fascinated by the power of names. In Islam, God teaches Adam the names of things.
What a beautiful video! I started reading Ursula’s books a little while after she passed (the books I sometimes read in my studies of the Yurok language were written by I think her grandfather or father, and that reminded me that I had Voices on the shelf, so I read it and fell in love). I have yet to read the Earthsea series, but knowing how I love Ursula’s writing style and looking at what snippets of the plot I’ve gleaned from this video, I’m determined to get this series on my shelf too.
This video got me to buy the whole series. Just finished the first book and I love it!
People are too tough on it. It is very faithful to the Ghibili style in visuals and story telling. You can not like this one as mush as the others for taste reasons, but objectively, it had an amazing music, absolutely incredible visuals, and the story was fine.
"Givin' you a number and takin' 'way your name". From the theme song to "Secrete Agent Man".
...I swear I thought LeGuin died years ago. 2018 has been too damn long and I’m ready for it to end oml.
I do like that summation she initially gave the film tho. It really does sum up the movie’s relationship to the books. (Thought I am definitely in the crowd unhappy w the whitewashing, especially as one of the biggest parts of Earthsea’s legacy is its racial representation in a genre largely devoid of it.)
I'm just happy they gave some color to the cast in that they can be somewhat tan, which is more than the SyFy miniseries did.
antiami People who don’t feel represented by the same white straight dudes in everything, that’s who cares. Also, diversity at its core gives us new stories that aren’t just retreads of existing material, and that’s always cool.
antiami Okay Mr Pedantic, they still made the main character pale when he’s expressly described as brown in the books. That’s still, at the very least, colorism at work, ffs.
Also like, anime characters can be nationalities other than Japanese. Unless you really wanna tell me Edward Elric is Japanese when all context in FMA points to no on that. :|
antiami Anime is a medium and you can literally depict any race. Edward Elric is white, given the context clues of Amestris as well as his own background. Other characters such as Usagi, Madoka, Naota, etc are Japanese bc context clues for them. Like, holy crap.
antiami Dude, I know the psychology. Edward Elric is still white, just as Usagi and Madoka are Japanese. They’re in different contexts, jfc.
Also, Avatar is absolutely an anime, fight me. ua-cam.com/video/uFtfDK39ZhI/v-deo.html
Your narrative voice has a really calming effect.
You got a new sub. Keep it up, mate.
I saw your earlier iteration before it was removed by youtube. So, I thought I had a deja vu when viewing this one. Although... I thought there was something different about. Now I know.
The first video was a little more dreamy, though. Great voice, great content!
I still place Tale from Earthsea as my 3rd favorite Ghibli film. While I know it’s got some flaws but the magic and the subtlety are so palpable. And I love this movie. I appreciate it for what it is and would love to see a new adaptation of the series.
I really loved this movie but the ending did feel rushed. This video helped me appreciate this film even more. Keep up the incredible work