The award-winning anime In This Corner (And Other Corners) of the World is now available for streaming on Crunchyroll, marking the first time its extended version has been released internationally. Directed by Sunao Katabuchi and produced by the acclaimed studio MAPPA, the film is a poignant exploration of resilience, community, and the enduring human spirit set against the settings of Japan during World War II. Originally released in 2016 as In This Corner of the World, the film compelled global audiences with its delicate storytelling. This extended edition introduces 39 minutes of previously unseen footage, offering an even richer experience of its world and characters.
The story follows Suzu Urano, a young woman who moves to Kure near Hiroshima in 1944 to live with her husband’s family. Through Suzu’s eyes, the film portrays the quiet joys and challenges of daily life, even as the shadow of war looms ever closer. As her community faces devastating loss, Suzu’s courage and unyielding hope remind her of the resilience within ordinary lives. Adapted from Fumiyo Kouno’s celebrated manga, the film surpasses its historical setting, delivering a universal message about perseverance and humanity.
Director Sunao Katabuchi, whose illustrious career includes collaborations with Hayao Miyazaki (Kiki’s Delivery Service), brings his signature sensitivity to this masterpiece. His storytelling, combined with MAPPA’s exquisite animation, captures the fleeting beauty of everyday life while confronting the stark realities of war. The extended version deepens this impact, offering new layers of emotion and historical insight. The film’s aesthetic is elevated further by Kotringo’s hauntingly beautiful score and Hidenori Matsubara’s nuanced character designs.
Since its release, In This Corner of the World has received over 60 awards, including the Hiroshima Peace Film Award and the Grand Jury Prize for Best Film at the Toronto Japanese Film Festival. At its heart, the film is a celebration of human resilience, illustrating the power of love and memory even in the face of immense adversity. Now streaming on Crunchyroll, this extended edition invites viewers to reflect on history, humanity, and the quiet strength found in ordinary lives. It is a cinematic experience that lingers, a timeless reminder of the bonds that sustain us through life’s darkest moments.
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