In Today’s Streaming World: "In This Corner (and Other Corners) of the World"
Image via Crunchyroll
The world of anime continues to expand, delighting fans with captivating narratives and rich cultural tapestries. Among such gems is In This Corner (and Other Corners) of the World, an anime film that has captured hearts globally. Recently, Crunchyroll announced that it would be streaming this expanded version of Sunao Katabuchi’s beloved adaptation of Fumiyo Kouno’s acclaimed manga. With availability in multiple languages, anime enthusiasts from around the world can now witness this masterpiece.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Setting and Story
Set against the backdrop of the 1940s in Hiroshima Prefecture, In This Corner (and Other Corners) of the World explores the life of Suzu, a young woman who navigates her new life amidst the tumultuous era of war. The story opens a window into her world as she joins her husband’s family in the shipbuilding city of Kure. As the ravages of war begin to impact her once tranquil life, her resilience and hope become beacons of light in an era overshadowed by conflict. Through her journey, Suzu endeavors to find happiness in a reality rife with challenges.
A Rich Adaptation from Manga
Kouno’s manga originally serialized in Weekly Manga Action between 2007 and 2009 and has since been compiled into three volumes, later published by Seven Seas Entertainment in 2017. Faithful to its source, the anime impressively translates the manga’s emotive depth, capturing the delicate interplay of joy and sorrow amidst adversity.
The Expanded Version: More Lives, More Stories
The expanded version of the film adds approximately 30 minutes of new content, providing a richer narrative that includes more perspectives beyond Suzu’s. This broadened scope is intended to reflect the theme of multiple lives and experiences intertwined during World War II, enriching the narrative with diverse human experiences.
From Manga Panels to Silver Screen
Originally released in November 2016, In This Corner of the World enjoyed critical acclaim and commercial success. Produced by GENCO and animation powerhouse MAPPA, it graced the screens in the United States and Canada with screenings by Shout! Factory and Funimation Films in August 2017. Not to rest on its laurels, the film went on to receive numerous accolades, underscoring its impact and artistic merit.
Celebrated Acclaim and Global Impact
The narrative’s sensitive portrayal of wartime life won it prestigious accolades such as the Fujimoto Award, the Minister Prize from the Agency for Cultural Affairs, and the Hiroshima Peace Film Award. These awards underscore the cultural and artistic impact it has had within the Japanese and global film community. Moreover, the film’s victories at the Kinema Jumpo magazine for the best Japanese movie of the year, and the Japan Academy Prize for Animation of the Year demonstrate its widespread recognition.
In This Corner (and Other Corners) of the World was also celebrated internationally, earning a nomination for Best Animated Feature-Independent at the 45th Annual Annie Awards and winning the Theatrical Anime Division at the Tokyo Anime Award Festival, among other prestigious recognitions.
Final Thoughts
In This Corner (and Other Corners) of the World is more than just a film. It’s an experience that transports viewers to a poignant period in history, deftly stitching narratives of personal struggle and perseverance against a backdrop of global adversity. Sunao Katabuchi’s work, bolstered by Fumiyo Kouno’s heartfelt manga, delivers a timeless message of hope and resilience.
This expanded availability on Crunchyroll ensures that more audiences can marvel at the profound storytelling that anime is renowned for. As you embark on this cinematic journey, prepare to be touched by Suzu’s indomitable spirit and the beautifully crafted world she inhabits. For those eager to explore the deeper socio-cultural layers of anime, this film is undoubtedly a must-watch. For further contextual exploration, consider visiting cultural resources here or engaging with WWII history documentaries.
