The Wind Rises Poster
Animation
Drama
War

The Wind Rises (2013) Review in 2025

8.5/10
Blockbuster

The Wind Rises is a beautifully animated film that tells the story of a young engineer's journey to design a plane that will change the course of history. With stunning visuals and a poignant storyline, this film is a must-watch for animation fans.

126 minutes
Japanese (Dubbed: English)
Age group: 13-25, Interests: Animation, Drama, War
Director:
Hayao Miyazaki
Budget: 40 million USD
Gross: 211 million USD

Family-Friendly Rating

Is this movie suitable for family viewing?

This film is suitable for older children and adults due to its complex storyline and themes of war and loss.

CineReview Recommendation

This film is a must-watch for animation fans and anyone interested in historical dramas. It's a beautifully crafted film that will leave you moved and inspired.

Spoiler Alert!

Hover to reveal spoiler summary

The film follows the life of Jirō Horikoshi, a young engineer who dreams of designing a plane that can fly higher and faster than any other. As he works tirelessly to bring his vision to life, he faces numerous challenges and setbacks, but ultimately succeeds in creating a plane that will play a crucial role in World War II. Along the way, he meets a young woman named Naoko who becomes his love interest, but their love is ultimately doomed by the circumstances of war.

Review Details

story9.00/10

The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear narrative that explores the complexities of war and the human cost of technological progress. The film's themes of love, loss, and sacrifice are deeply moving and will resonate with audiences.

acting8.00/10

The acting is solid, with Joseph Gordon-Levitt delivering a nuanced performance as Jirō Horikoshi. The supporting cast is also strong, with Sumi Shimamoto and Stanley Tucci delivering memorable performances.

characters8.50/10

The characters are well-developed and relatable, with Jirō Horikoshi being a particularly compelling protagonist. His passion for engineering and his dedication to his craft are inspiring, and his relationships with Naoko and other characters are authentic and heartfelt.

direction9.50/10

Hayao Miyazaki's direction is masterful, with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the human condition. The film's animation is stunning, with beautifully rendered landscapes and characters that bring the story to life.

cinematography9.00/10

The cinematography is breathtaking, with stunning visuals that capture the beauty of Japan's landscapes and the drama of war. The film's use of color and lighting is also noteworthy, adding depth and emotion to the story.

Pros and Cons

Pros

The Wind Rises is a beautifully animated film with a poignant storyline and stunning visuals. The film's themes of love, loss, and sacrifice are deeply moving, and the characters are well-developed and relatable.

Cons

The film's pacing can be slow at times, and some viewers may find the themes of war and loss to be too intense.

Notable Quotes

"I want to design a plane that will take people to the sky and make them feel free."
"The wind is rising, we must try to live!"

Similar Movies

Trailer