Often mistaken for a lost Ghibli production, LIKE THE CLOUDS, LIKE THE WIND remains something of an underseen gem. Set in a fantasy world based on 17th century China, it follows the exploits of a spirited but naive farm girl trying to win the emperor's hand. It's packed with romance, comedy, and political intrigue, only to switch gears midpoint and turn into a tragic coming of age tale.
The sudden shifts in tone with either annoy or interest you. I actually liked it and thought it kept the story dynamic. However, I do wish this were a series and not an 80 minute movie. The setting begged for more fleshing out, as did the political situation and the characters.
The sudden shifts in tone with either annoy or interest you. I actually liked it and thought it kept the story dynamic. However, I do wish this were a series and not an 80 minute movie. The setting begged for more fleshing out, as did the political situation and the characters.