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Summer Ghost Blu-ray Review

“Summer Ghost” is poignant.

Directed by illustrator turned filmmaker loundraw and written by Hirotaka Adachi, “Summer Ghost” is based on one of loundraw’s own drawings. The story concerns 3 teens (Ryo, Aoi and Tomoya) who seek out an alleged “Summer Ghost” that appears when fireworks are lit. It turns out the story is true and the three are able to see her (for reasons you will learn). Soon, the 3 find themselves on a journey of self-discovery and exploration as they connect with the ghost woman named Ayane Sato. 

While straight forward and perhaps owing a little to filmmaker Makoto Shinkai, “Summer Ghost” is a Japanese anime short film with a lot on its mind. It’s a meditative look at death, mental struggles, moving forward with life and making the best out of life despite its many obstacles. It explores humanity’s fascination with the afterlife and the paranormal in surprising and emotional ways. Could the film have expanded on the story and the characters more? Sure, but as a short film, it certainly gets its points across. 

For a debut feature film, director loundraw shows great promise in both his storytelling capabilities and as an animation filmmaker. Speaking of the animation, the work by Flat Studio is first rate here. Everything from the firework details to the trippy ghostly adventures are supremely well animated. 

Video/Audio:

1.78:1 1080p. How does it look? The animation looks crisp in hi-def.

English and Japanese 5.1 DTS-HD. How does it sound? The English dub is decent but the original language Japanese track is the best option.

Extras:
* A feature length animatic
* A 13 ½ minute interview with director loundraw who talks about his name, the origin of the film, directing and more.
* “To You Before Dawn Documentary”- A 78 minute behind-the-scenes documentary.

November 1, 2022 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Anime, loundraw, Summer Ghost Blu-ray Review