In The Wind Rises (2013), the story begins with Jirō Horikoshi, a young boy who dreams of designing beautiful airplanes. As he grows, his passion takes him into the world of engineering during a turbulent period in Japanese history. Through stunning animation and quiet, reflective storytelling, the film intertwines his personal journey with the larger backdrop of a nation heading toward war. Rather than focusing only on historical events, it emphasizes the personal sacrifices, dreams, and burdens carried by those who try to create beauty in difficult times.
The theme of coping with illness, grief, and war trauma appears throughout Jirō's life. His deep love is tested by illness, reminding viewers of the fragility of happiness and the emotional weight of caring for someone facing mortality. Alongside this personal struggle, his career in aviation brings him face-to-face with the darker reality of war: creations meant to inspire are repurposed for destruction. The film delicately shows how grief, responsibility, and trauma intermingle, highlighting the emotional resilience required to move forward while carrying such heavy burdens.
By the end, the film leaves viewers reflecting on the duality of human achievement—the beauty of innovation and the sorrow of its consequences. It is a meditation on love, loss, and the quiet strength needed to endure illness and tragedy while still holding on to dreams. For more details you can explore the film's official page on IMDB.