In In This Corner of the World (2016), the story begins with Suzu, a gentle and imaginative young woman who moves to the city of Kure in Hiroshima Prefecture during World War II. Through her eyes, the film captures both the quiet rhythms of daily life and the disruptions caused by war. While Suzu embraces her new role as a wife and daughter-in-law, her world becomes increasingly unstable as the conflict deepens. The animation, soft and painterly, underscores the tension between fleeting moments of beauty and the looming destruction of war.
The theme of PTSD, trauma, and resilience in daily life emerges as Suzu and her family navigate loss, uncertainty, and fear. Instead of focusing solely on violence, the film delicately portrays the psychological toll of war—how ordinary routines like cooking, drawing, and caring for loved ones become acts of survival. Suzu's creativity becomes a shield against despair, yet the weight of trauma is never far away, reflected in her moments of silence, grief, and struggle to carry on. The film highlights how trauma lingers beyond physical wounds, shaping memory and identity long after the conflict ends.
By the end, the film leaves viewers reflecting on the resilience required to endure hardship while holding on to hope and humanity. It is both a poignant reminder of the silent scars left by war and a tribute to the strength found in small acts of perseverance. For more details you can explore the film's official page on IMDB.