Discover the Hidden Masterpiece of Makoto Shinkai That Everyone’s Missing!

Makoto Shinkai, a renowned filmmaker, is best known for creating critically acclaimed anime movies such as “Your Name”, “Weathering With You”, and his latest release “Suzume”. Often hailed as one of the greatest directors in the field, standing alongside visionaries like Hayao Miyazaki, Shinkai’s work consistently earns high praise from devoted fans. However, one of his lesser-known shorter films, “The Garden of Words”, is available on HIDIVE and deserves more attention. This film might even be Shinkai’s most visually stunning piece to date.

I must say, it’s quite an understatement to merely call this director remarkable; he’s truly a master of enchanting animation. Now, while Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli have earned their fame for the intricate worlds and mythical beings they weave in their films, Makoto Shinkai stands out with his visually stunning works that indeed live up to the saying, “each frame is a masterpiece.” However, in the case of “The Garden of Words,” it transcends even that.

The Garden of Words Is Streaming on HIDIVE

Instead of Makoto Shinkai‘s well-known films that interweave romantic aspects with the surreal and magical (sometimes incorporating science fiction), The Garden of Words is a straightforward dramatic piece. The movie focuses on Takao, a high school student grappling with his lack of motivation at school. He frequently skips class to find solace in his favorite public garden, where he nurtures his genuine interest: shoe design. A chance encounter with Yukino, a young woman dealing with job-related issues, kicks off an unconventional friendship between the two as they navigate their shared hardships over time.

In 2013, “The Garden of Words” was widely appreciated by viewers. This movie boasts an impressive 84% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes, although it doesn’t quite match the stellar ratings of “Suzume,” “Weathering With You,” and “Your Name.” Nonetheless, “The Garden of Words” is undoubtedly worth watching. Interestingly, it’s one of Makoto Shinkai’s shorter works, with a runtime of 46 minutes, making it barely qualify as a full-length film.

Why You Should Watch The Garden of Words

The Garden of Words could be considered one of Makoto Shinkai’s most daring cinematic ventures. While the scope might be eclipsed by his latest creation, Suzume, this film showcases an extraordinary innovation in its animation style. Instead of grandeur, it’s the attention to detail that sets it apart. Makoto Shinkai and his team at CoMix Wave Films seem to have filmed the movie using a real-life camera, as evidenced by the realistic framing and lighting. However, the true charm lies in the subtle nuances. They’ve incorporated minute details such as camera tremors, as if the film was shot handheld, and focus adjustments that lend an authenticity to the deeply moving and identifiable narrative.

We’re not stating unequivocally that “The Garden of Words” is Makoto Shinkai’s finest film; this topic sparks intense discussion among his devoted followers. Nevertheless, “The Garden of Words” seems to be underappreciated by the wider fan base, and given its brief 46-minute length, it certainly merits your consideration.

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2025-01-16 22:11