Following a brutal war, former soldier Van toils in a mine controlled by the ruling empire. One day, his solitary existence is upended when a pack of wild dogs carrying a deadly and incurable disease attack, leaving only Van and a young girl named Yuna as survivors. Finally free, the pair seek out a simple existence in the countryside but are pursued by nefarious forces. Intent on protecting Yuna at all costs, Van must uncover the true cause of the plague ravaging the kingdom—and its possible cure.
Cinematography
Background art so lush you'll pause just to admire a sunset.
Acting
Van's gruff silence speaks louder than any dialogue.
Direction
Masashi Ando's first feature—Makoto Shinkai's loss is our gain.
Director
Masayuki Miyaji
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
JP
