On the surface, the story moves too fast, nothing really happens externally, and there are too many magics, symbols, and elements.
Instead, this movie offers reflections to our past. Our regrets, traumas, and embarrassments we’ve refuse to admit or reveal to others. It then assures that it’s not your fault. Instead, a human experience to be weighted down by the shames of hurting others or failing to live your life the way you had intended to.
It shows that this world is cruel, challenging, and incongruous. Full of betrayal, competition, and unnecessary rules. Miyazaki guides that you can overcome and embrace your scars. And these dark moments from your past will help you navigate this world.
It shows that you are alive, everything you had done will always be a part of you, and who you are matters in this world. It’s Miyazaki’s way of showing love and sharing everything he had learned. His way of questioning “how will you live?”.
I sincerely hope that this isn’t Miyazaki’s final work. It’s too realistic and heavy to be his last work. I wish that this is his checkpoint; a midway for generations to follow.