The Film (5/5)

A lonely Japanese college student named Hana, soon falls for a quiet loner in one of her classes. After following him and trying to find a way to break the ice, the two soon become friends, then lovers. As the bound between them gets closer, the man reveals to Hana that he is a werewolf (or a wolf man called a Honshuu). The two soon have two children named Yuki (a hyper active girl) and Ame (a quiet boy).

Tragedy happens, when the husband is killed in his wolf form, leaving Hana as a single mother. The city life and trying to raise two kids who switch between human and wolf forms at random, quickly becomes hell. They move to the country side and soon start a new life there. But as the school season starts, the wolf children need to decide if they’ll grow up to live as humans, or wolves.

WOLF CHILDREN (2012) is one of the more surprising anime films I’ve encountered. On the surface, it’s a simple story of a single mother and her two children, but the experience and themes of finding one’s self are some of the most powerful in any film. Director Mamoru Hosoda got his start as a key animator on various shows like DRAGON BALL Z, DIGIMON, and ONE PIECE, before hitting it big by directing the surprise hit GIRL WHO LEAPT THROUGHT TIME (2006). Now Hosoda is one of the most exciting anime directors outside of Studio Ghibli.

WOLF CHILDREN are right up there with Don Bluth’s THE SECRET OF NIMH (1983), as a thrilling tell of the hidden power in maternal instinct. The character of Hana is one of the most likeable and strong female characters in an anime film. Her struggles as a single mother are both enlightening and a punch to the gut. From dealing with child services, to aiding her sick kids/ pups, to finally searching for Ame in the forest during a massive rain storm. All are handled with thrilling animation and storytelling by Mosoda and crew.

The kids too come with an interesting character arch. Both struggle with the choice of being human or wolf, and find connection on their way to adulthood. The animation too is a phenomenal mix of breathtaking grander and slice of life simples. One of the show stopping sequences in the film, is a tour de force of editing and art as the two kids start running in the fresh snow. Changing from human to wolf, with their clothes sliding off as Hana trials behind. As the three slides down the mountain in a huge snowball it shows everything amazing about the film in one scene.

WOLF CHILDREN is a masterpiece. A werewolf family drama that is both enriching in life, and a pure example of humanity. There is so many images in this film that will stay with me for years. Perfect little moments. The mark of a true classic.

Audio/ Video (5/5)

Funimation’s handsome Blu-ray comes with two audio options. The 5.1 Japanese Dolby True HD track is the way to go. The sound mix is finely tuned and every little detail is clearly heard. The mix is so rich in spots, that I rewound it to listen to all the sounds of the forest or city. The 5.1 English Dolby True HD track is also a treat but for my money I prefer original language when possible. English subtitles are included.

The 1080p HD transfer is another winner. This movie’s color scheme and style is shown in the best light here. The flow of animation is smooth and the picture is detailed to the smallest degree. The house, fields, forests, and even the school yards are full of life. The black levels are balanced and overall picture is one of the best for an animated film.

Extras (4/5)

We get a great slate of Extras. Included are: US staff and actor commentary, Stage Greeting videos (Japan Premiere, Paris, Theme Song and Stage, Opening day in Japan, and Hana’s Day), PR Videos with the Director, Promotional piece, Original trailer, teaser and US trailer. Finishing off the disc is a trailer gallery for other Funimation releases.

Overall (5/5)

WOLF CHILDREN is one of the most enchanting dramas around. A Highly emotional and charming tale, that will bring a few tears and warm your heart. A true masterpiece. Highly recommended.