The Whisper of the Heart (Studio Ghibli)  // [G] 1995, Romance/Family

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5) 

 This movie warmed my heart up and made my heart race. I loved the friendship and the love and romance. I also love the drive between the two characters to find meaning in their lives. It genuinely made me so happy. The progression of the romance was perfect. It was not a slow burn, but it was not quick. The Grandpa and the story of the Baron are so creative and really added to the story and the meaning of it as a whole. The ending was what really sold me. I definitely recommend it. 

 - Desiree

For a more in depth review see Desiree’s Corner

Lamb (2021) // [R] Horror/Drama

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3.5/5)

Lamb is a story about an Icelandic couple who have a sheep farm, and encounter a sheep/human hybrid when one of their ewes gives birth. The two take in the offspring which has a lamb head and one lamb limb, the rest being the body of a human child. The odd family grows closer, with the couple seemingly growing happier and more defensive of their adopted child. The family meet the inherent complications of defying nature.

Don't expect jumpscares from Lamb. Although undeniably a horror film and nothing less, Lamb deviates from the common idea of what a horror should be and takes the form of a psychological horror. It’s more of a slow burn, and although it might feel incredibly lengthy, it’ll leave you screaming “WHAT THE FUCK?” by the end of it for sure. I’d definitely tell you to watch it for the sake of its weirdness, but I don’t think it as a very memorable or impactful film. It’s earned its 3.5 rating through its color grading, scenery, CGI, creepiness, the one scene that had me horrified, and for the exercise it gave my brain while trying to figure out what it all meant.

⌲ Here’s the longer review/debriefing: Lamb.

Happy mindfuck!

- Sarai

From Up on Poppy Hill (2011)

Studio Ghibli Film Review

From Up on Poppy Hill (2011, Studio Ghibli)

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)

This movie was absolutely captivating. The storyline was unique in a way that you could not predict what was coming next. In it's Studio Ghibli nature, all the characters felt as if you could talk out loud and expect a response. All the relationships were intertwined in a way that was so beautiful and moving. I was most definitely on the verge of tears at the end. Absolutely recommend.

✏ b :p