Japanese filmmaker/novelist, Makoto Shinkai came up with an idea for a romantic fantasy film. He visited a fishing village of Yuriage in Natori after the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami. Brainstormed plot elements with two teenagers who swap bodies. As in most body swap movies like “Freaky Friday,” the pair must adapt to the opposite body they’re trapped until they find a way to revert back to their original bodies. The basic plot I’m referring to is none other than “Your Name.”
Released in 2016, (same year La La Land came out) it received widespread acclaim from critics and moviegoers alike. In addition to praise, it was also a financial hit. A Year Later, Funimation translated Your Name in English Dub. Your Name’s the first installment of a thematic trilogy under. “The Disaster Trilogy.” Followed by “Weathering with You” & “Suzume.”
I have one legit reason why I wanna review this modern classic. Stephanie Sheh will attend Fan Expo Dallas 2026. I may or may not have a selfie and autograph combo with her. Depends on the schedule. The aforementioned 3-day event will commence in September 11-13. As a fan of Ms. Sheh’s work, I’m looking forward to this. One more thing, J.J Abrams’ production company, Bad Robot is working on a live-action remake.
Today’s review contains no SPOILERS. I’m giving you a chance to see this modern anime classic.
Strong & Weak Aspects
Strong: Stephanie Sheh & Michael Sinterniklaas both did an excellent job for their respective voiceover performances.
Other Cast Members such as Kyle Hebert, (Aizen from Bleach) Cassandra Lee Morris (Morgana from Persona 5) & Ray Chase (Tengen Uzui from Demon Slayer) all did a decent job for their respective voiceover performances.
Makoto Shinkai did a great job directing. He also wrote the script making sure every plot point’s organized.
Animation looks gorgeous in traditional format bringing a few elements to life including character models, lighting, fluid movement, environmental locations etc.
Japanese rock band, Radwimps orchestrated the soundtrack.
Pacing felt natural. I was hooked since the beginning.
The film’s influenced by “Rama 1/2” and one of my all-time favorite films, “Interstellar.”
Jokes are well written. They’re not a mile a minute gag. A balance between seriousness and comedy.
Chemistry between Taki & Mitshua serves as the main highlight. They learn about each other residing in the opposite body.
We learn about the pains daily lives, friends and families.
A comet plays a pivotal role.
A Plot Twist changes everything. I refuse to tell you. You’ll have to see for yourself.
Michelle Ruff (Rukia from Bleach) has a small voiceover cameo as Mitshua’s mother.
I admit, this film made me bawl. In a good way. Whenever a film or TV show makes me cry, you know it’s gonna be good.
Upon finishing the film for the first time, it’s worth a rewatch for subtle clues.
Random Thoughts
- First time I learned about Your Name was from Chris Stuckmann. He’s an anime enthusiast like me. He ultimately gave it an A+.
- I’m gonna come clean, this is the first time I watched a Makoto Shinkai film. I’ve yet to see his other films, Weathering with You & Suzume.
Weak: I couldn’t find nothing wrong. I’m giving the cast and crew and Extra Point for making a flawless anime film as possible.
The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!
I really enjoyed Your Name. It’s a beautifully made anime film as well as a unique romantic fantasy body swap story. At first, I thought this was gonna be a predictable romantic movie containing an early relationship and a temporary break-up. Turns out to be organic with none of the two elements. A breath of fresh air. Your Name’s officially my favorite animated film of 2016. I strongly recommend it. Check it out on HBO Max. Which anime film or series should I review next? Please leave a comment.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 