A "Silent Voice" has a lot to say

By Tyreke Sims

April 28, 2023

If you’re planning on watching an animated movie, A Silent Voice is not typical to the anime genre, yet it’s a breathtaking and emotional film that explores the themes of suicide, depression , bullying, redemption, and the power of communication. Directed by Naoko Yamada and based on the manga by Yoshitoki Oima, the film is a powerful and poignant portrayal of the difficulties faced by those who struggle to connect with others due to social anxiety and isolation.

The film follows the story of Shoya Ishida, a young boy who was once a bully in his school, targeting a deaf girl named Shoko Nishimiya. Years later, Shoya in the opening scenes was not planning to see April 17th, he has been dealing with suicidal thoughts and depression for a number of years now. After a suspenseful and jaw-biting scene his mother Miyako Ishida consoles Shoya after discovering her son's real emotions. Shoya seeks redemption by reconnecting with Shoko and trying to make amends for the pain he caused her. Through their journey, the film explores the importance of empathy and forgiveness's transformative power.

As the movie progresses Shoya runs into old classmates. That dramatically changes the course of the movie as Shoya is dealing with social anxiety. He struggles finding the confidence to forgive himself and seeing these familiar faces are a reminder of who he once was.

The animation is simply stunning, capturing the delicate emotions of the characters with incredible detail and nuance. The film's soundtrack, composed by Kensuke Ushio, is equally powerful, adding to the emotional resonance of the story.

What makes "A Silent Voice" is so exceptional is how it tackles such a difficult subject matter with sensitivity and compassion. The film doesn't shy away from the pain and trauma caused by bullying, but it also offers a message of hope and healing, reminding us that it's never too late to make amends and connect with others.

Overall, "A Silent Voice "is a deeply moving and thought-provoking film that deserves to be seen by anyone who has ever felt alone or misunderstood. Its message of empathy and forgiveness is a powerful reminder of the importance of human connection, and its stunning animation and score make it a feast for the senses.