Aoi Hiiragi’s groundbreaking coming-of-age manga, “Mimi wo Sumaseba,” marked a pivotal moment in the history of manga with its cultural influence and relatable themes. This timeless work has now been re-envisioned for the silver screen in a touching adaptation titled “Whisper of the Heart.” Directed by the talented Yûichirô Hirakawa, known for his work on “The Promised Neverland,” this film explores themes of first love, commitment, and personal dreams.
“Whisper of the Heart” revisits the original manga storyline, but from the vantage point of a decade later, perfectly integrating cherished moments from the novel with present-day realities. The film promises both a wave of nostalgia for long-time fans and an immersive introduction for newcomers.
The story centers around our protagonists, Shizuku and Seiji, as they grapple with the dreams they once believed were uniquely theirs. Shizuku, now an employee of a respected book publisher in Japan, struggles to find her passion for writing, which directly impacts her career and relationship with clients. Simultaneously, Seiji, an esteemed cellist based in Cremona, Italy, grapples with a sense of disillusionment in his quest for artistic excellence.
When Shizuku decides to visit Seiji, her estranged friend from a decade ago, they both embark on a soul-searching journey. This trip serves as an extraordinary opportunity to evaluate their lives, re-discover their dreams, and assess what truly matters to them.
“Whisper of the Heart” prompts its viewers to question if the fervor of young love can weather the tests of time, and whether it can aid us in realizing our dreams.
Helmed and scripted by Yūichirō Hirakawa, and co-distributed by Sony Pictures Entertainment and Shochiku, “Whisper of the Heart” features a star-studded cast with Nana Seino (“Attack on Titan Part 1,” “Nowhere Girl”) and Tori Matsuzaka (“The Blood of Wolves”). This film serves as a heartfelt tribute to the manga that touched millions, while also delivering a refreshing reinterpretation for the contemporary audience.