The highly acclaimed anime film Her Blue Sky, known for its captivating storytelling and emotional depth, is now available for streaming on Netflix. Directed by Tatsuyuki Nagai and animated by CloverWorks, this film has garnered widespread attention and praise since its original release in 2019. Fans can now enjoy it worldwide with both English subtitles and dubs, making it more accessible to international audiences.
Anime fans have been waiting for this moment, and Netflix’s acquisition of Her Blue Sky brings yet another stunning anime film to its expansive library. The streaming platform has been steadily increasing its lineup of critically acclaimed anime titles, including popular series and films. This release gives viewers the chance to experience the poignant themes, impressive animation, and emotional character arcs that define Her Blue Sky. For many, this is an opportunity to rediscover the magic of the film, while for new viewers, it’s a chance to immerse themselves in a heartfelt story that resonates on many levels.
Since its theatrical release in Japan, Her Blue Sky has gained critical acclaim for its unique storytelling, stunning animation, and the raw emotional experience it provides. Premiering at the 52nd Sitges Film Festival, the film captivated audiences with its delicate balance of family drama, romance, and supernatural elements. It was released in Japanese theaters shortly after, on October 11, 2019, and grossed ¥440.5 million (approximately $2.97 million) within its first month, a testament to its widespread appeal.
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Her Blue Sky – An Overview
Her Blue Sky centers around two sisters, Akane and Aoi Aioi, who are left orphaned after a tragic accident. Akane, the elder sister, takes on the role of guardian for Aoi, raising her for over a decade. Despite their close bond, Aoi feels guilty for being a burden on her sister and decides to move to Tokyo after graduation to pursue a music career. Her motivation stems from Akane’s former boyfriend, Shinnosuke “Shinno” Kanamuro, a once-promising musician who mysteriously disappeared after the death of their parents.
The plot thickens when Aoi arrives in Tokyo and encounters not one, but two versions of Shinnosuke: the young Shinno she knew from her childhood and his present-day 31-year-old self. This unusual and supernatural twist forms the core of the narrative, as the film explores how the past and present collide, forcing the characters to confront their unresolved emotions and unfinished relationships.
With its blend of family drama, romance, and a supernatural storyline, Her Blue Sky resonates deeply with audiences. The film tackles themes of regret, longing, and the complexities of moving forward after loss, all wrapped in the beauty of a hand-drawn anime aesthetic. The emotional depth of the story is enhanced by a touching soundtrack and beautiful visuals, making it a memorable cinematic experience for viewers.
Production and Creative Team
The film’s success can largely be attributed to its stellar production team. Tatsuyuki Nagai, known for directing works like Honey and Clover II and Toradora!, helmed the project, bringing his expertise in character-driven narratives. The screenplay was written by the talented Mari Okada, who is famous for her work on O Maidens in Your Savage Season and Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day. Okada’s ability to craft emotionally resonant stories is evident in Her Blue Sky, as she weaves a complex narrative filled with heartache, hope, and redemption.
Masayoshi Tanaka, another industry veteran, served as the chief animation director and character designer. Known for his work on Darling in the Franxx and Your Name, Tanaka’s character designs in Her Blue Sky are both expressive and beautifully detailed, adding another layer of emotional depth to the film.
Japanese Voice Cast
- Shion Wakayama as Aoi Aioi
- Riho Yoshioka as Akane Aioi
- Ryo Yoshizawa as Shinnosuke Kanomura/Shinno
- Atsumi Tanezaki as Chika Otaki
- Ken Matsudaira as Dankichi Nitobe
- Fukushi Ochiai as Masamichi Nakamura
- Yo Taichi as Masatsugu Nakamura
English Voice Cast
- Anne Yatco as Akane Aoi
- Miya Kodama as Aoi Aioi & Felecia Angelle as her childhood version
- Edward Hong as Shinnosuke & Anthony Ma as his younger version
- Geri Courtney-Austein as Chika Otaki
- Brent Mukai as Masamichi Nakamura
- Maya Aoki Tuttle as Masatsugu Nakamura
- Ronald Banks as Dankichi Nitobe
The Film’s Reception and Global Appeal
Since its release, Her Blue Sky has resonated with both domestic and international audiences. It stands out as a touching film that beautifully captures the intricacies of familial relationships, the pain of loss, and the redemptive power of love and music. Critics have praised the film for its emotionally charged narrative, relatable characters, and stunning visual style. Its addition to Netflix’s streaming library allows for broader accessibility, enabling viewers around the world to experience the emotional journey of the Aioi sisters.
Anime fans often compare Her Blue Sky to other emotionally driven films such as Your Name and A Silent Voice, which similarly tackle themes of love, regret, and second chances. While Her Blue Sky does not shy away from the pain of its characters’ pasts, it also offers hope for the future, making it a deeply moving film that leaves a lasting impact.
For those who haven’t yet seen it, Her Blue Sky offers a perfect blend of emotional storytelling and supernatural intrigue, delivered with the kind of heart and soul that makes anime films so special. Whether you’re a long-time anime fan or a newcomer, this film is not to be missed.
Our very own Tatsuya Ren reviewed Her Blue Sky when the film screened in Filipino theaters, praising it for its ability to balance emotional weight with lighthearted moments. You can read their full review here for a deeper analysis of why this film resonates so strongly with audiences.
Source: Her Blue Sky Official Twitter
© 2019 Sora Ao Project
