Trailer Link

Release Date:

February 28, 2014

Synopsis:

From IMDb: “A look at the life of Jiro Horikoshi, the man who designed Japanese fighter planes during World War II.”

Poster: B (2) / C+

Review: The first two designs are nearly identical. One is English and the other Japanese, the latter being more distinctly colorful. However, the first design does a better job establishing the aeronautic aspect of the story, even if minimally. The third design is less distinctive and less interesting.

Trailer: B+

Review: Perhaps I’m partial because I’ve already seen the film, but this design should appease many Miyazaki fans and create a bitter-sweet pang of loss near the end. The song from the end credits is a tad distracting, but the images are well chosen. The trailer also meanders to its conclusion, but is still worth the trek.

Oscar Prospects:

It’s already nominated for an Oscar for 2013. It received a short, qualifying run last year. It’s technically a 2013 release. Were Disney not gung-ho about honoring Frozen this year, there is no doubt in my mind that Miyazaki would have walked away with a second Oscar.

Revisions:

(February 2, 2014) Original

Additional Posters