In the realm of Japanese animation, Makoto Shinkai’s creation, “Suzume no Tojimari,” has made a significant impact. This visually stunning movie, accompanied by an incredible soundtrack, has captivated audiences worldwide. While the plotline had some unique elements, it did have moments where it seemed to drag on.
Nevertheless, the animation in “Suzume no Tojimari” is a true masterpiece, showcasing the animators’ attention to detail. The film incorporates adventure, humor, and memorable characters, with one standout being Daijin. In this article, we will delve into the plotline, character development, and the ending of “Suzume no Tojimari.”
The Plotline: A Bizarre Adventure Unfolds
The movie revolves around Suzume, a young girl who embarks on a peculiar journey across Japan. It all begins when Suzume encounters Souta, a mysterious man searching for a door in an abandoned ruin. Intrigued, Suzume decides to follow him, leading her to discover a parallel world within Japan. Alongside Souta, Suzume sets out to prevent a worm-like creature, a harbinger of natural disasters, from wreaking havoc and causing earthquakes. Their mission involves sealing the worm by chasing Daijin, a cat-like creature, who holds the key to sealing it.
Suzume’s Encounter with Souta
Suzume’s adventure begins with a vivid dream about her younger self searching for her missing mother. Waking up abruptly, she heads to school but encounters a captivating man asking for directions to the abandoned ruin. Guiding him, Suzume’s curiosity gets the better of her, and she follows him to the ruins. Opening the door, Suzume is greeted by a breathtaking alternate world with endless fields and stars illuminating the sky. However, she finds herself unable to step inside.
While exploring the area, Suzume stumbles upon a small idol-like structure resembling a fox. As she takes it, the structure transforms into a cat, which scurries away. Startled, Suzume rushes back to school, only to witness smoke emanating from the ruins. While her classmates remain oblivious, Suzume realizes a connection between the smoke and the increasing earthquakes. Determined to investigate further, she returns to the ruins and encounters Souta, who is struggling to close the door and prevent the worm from escaping.
Souta, Suzume, and Daijin’s Journey
Grateful for Suzume’s assistance, Souta reluctantly follows her home, where she treats his injuries. During their conversation, a cat appears at the window and magically merges Souta with a chair.
The cat, later revealed as Daijin, flees, and Suzume impulsively chases after them. Boarding a ferry to Ehime, they meet Chika, a high school student who offers them a ride.
While helping Chika, they encounter another worm ready to cause havoc. With difficulty, they manage to close off the entrance to the school ruins, temporarily stopping the earthquake. Daijin arrives and informs them about another gate opening before slipping away once again.
Suzume and Souta stay at Chika’s inn, where Suzume shares that the chair was a gift from her deceased mother. The following day, they discover a video of Daijin on the Kobe bridge, leading them to the abandoned amusement park in Kobe.
Here, they meet Rumi and her children, who provide them with transportation and accommodation. Suzume attempts to close the worm’s entry point, while Souta confronts Daijin, demanding it return to its keystone form. Daijin resists and manages to escape as Suzume becomes entranced on the Ferris wheel. Souta saves her, and together they seal the door.
Suzume’s Journey to Save Souta
Suzume’s aunt becomes increasingly concerned about her whereabouts and decides to find her. She follows Suzume to Tokyo, where Souta leads her to his flat to gather information about the worm.
They learn that Tokyo’s gate was guarded by another keystone and that a similar catastrophe occurred in the past, wiping out the Kanto region. Souta discovers that he possesses the power to turn into a keystone and accepts his fate.
They hitch a ride on the worm, covering the entire city, and Suzume reluctantly pierces the worm with Souta as a keystone, sealing it. As the worm explodes into vibrant colors, Suzume falls while Daijin protects her from harm.
Upon awakening, Suzume recalls her childhood dream, realizing that her older self was guiding her through her past trauma.
The chair her mother made, which Suzume received as a child, symbolizes the courage to overcome those painful memories. Suzume consults Souta’s grandfather and sets off to find the door she entered 12 years ago to search for her mother. Accompanied by her aunt and Daijin, they embark on a journey to rescue Souta.
The Grand Finale: Saving Japan from the Worm
Arriving at Suzume’s hometown, she locates the door with Sadaijin and Daijin’s assistance. Together, they enter the Ever-After to save Souta. Suzume connects with Souta’s memories, freeing his soul from its crystallized state. Souta regains his human form, and with Daijin, Sadaijin, and Suzume, they seal the worm, preventing further disaster. Daijin and Sadaijin become keystones, planting themselves on the worm to secure its permanent seal.
As they make their way out, Suzume realizes that her dream was a reflection of her older self guiding her towards finding her loved ones.
With the mission accomplished, Suzume, Souta, and her aunt return to Kyushu. The movie ends with Souta reuniting with Suzume after completing his adventure to ensure the safety of gates across Japan.
Reflections on the Film: Daijin’s Sacrifice and Character Development
While “Suzume no Tojimari” weaves various plotlines, the central theme revolves around accepting one’s inner child and overcoming past traumas. Suzume’s journey allows her to confront her suppressed memories, gradually rediscovering her strength and resilience.
The bond between Suzume and her aunt strengthens as they communicate and set aside their hurts. The romance between Suzume and Souta, although not prominently portrayed, receives ample screen time. The unique romance between a chair and a girl may seem unusual, but it ultimately resolves when Souta returns to his original form.
The Ever-After, as described by Souta, serves as a resting place for souls and is inaccessible to the living. As Souta transforms into a chair, he gradually loses consciousness and crystallizes, signifying his transformation into a keystone.
Suzume’s kiss awakens him, reminiscent of the sleeping beauty trope. Throughout their adventure, Daijin plays a crucial role, aiding Suzume and Souta in their mission. Despite being emotionally hurt by Suzume, Daijin remains devoted to her, even sacrificing itself to protect her. Daijin’s unconditional love and loyalty make its character truly endearing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Suzume no Tojimari” takes viewers on a captivating and visually stunning journey. The film’s plotline, character development, and exploration of past traumas make it a compelling watch. Suzume’s quest to save Souta and Japan from the worm showcases the power of self-discovery and resilience.
While the romance between Suzume and Souta takes center stage, the unique relationship between Suzume and Daijin adds depth to the story. Through its stunning animation and heartfelt storytelling, “Suzume no Tojimari” leaves a lasting impression on its audience
