Grave of the Fireflies

(1988)Directed by Isao Takahata89 min · PG-13Animation, Drama, War
Why do fireflies have to die so soon?

In the rubble of Kobe after an American bombing raid, two orphaned siblings, Seita (voice: Tsutomu Tatsumi) and his younger sister Setsuko (voice: Ayano Shiraishi), search for food and shelter as Japan's war closes. Their relatives turn them away, and Seita tries to keep them both alive by scavenging what little remains. By the end, his fierce protectiveness has cost him everything, and he sits alone with nothing left.

Tsutomu Tatsumias Seita (voice)
Ayano Shiraishias Setsuko (voice)
Yoshiko Shinoharaas Mother (voice)
AYAkemi Yamaguchias Auntie (voice)
MSMasayo Sakaias Woman who takes care of Setsuko (voice)
KHKozo Hashidaas Obayashi Chairman (voice)
Kazumi Nozakias Cousin (voice)
Yoshio Matsuokaas Gosaku (voice)
Masahiro Kanetakeas Aunt's House Guest (voice)
Kiyoshi Yanagawaas Patrolman (voice)
Hajime Makias Man who arrests Seita (voice)
Atsuo Omotemas Person in Bank (voice)
Teruhisa Haritaas Station Worker (voice)
Hiroshi Tanakaas Person in Bank (voice)
Michio Denpoas Station Worker / Doctor (voice)
Shiro Tamakias Person in Bank (voice)
Mika Sekitaas Nurse (voice)
Kyoko Moriwakias (voice)