Probably the least seen Studio Ghibli masterpiece (at least in North America), Grave of the Fireflies is also one of the most affecting animated films out there. Roger Ebert described it as an emotional experience so powerful that it forces a rethinking of animation, adding, it belongs on any list of the greatest war films ever made. Set in Japan during WWII, the film focuses on Seita and his little sister Setsuko. After their mother is killed in an air raid, and with their father serving in the navy, they are forced to fight for survival in the devastated Japanese countryside. Food and shelter are scarce, and even their own relatives are too concerned with their own survival. A visually stunning and emotionally powerful meditation on the devastating consequences of war, Fireflies screens at Vancity Theatre Nov. 10 to 13; times vary. Children are welcome but there are some frightening scenes. VIFF.org/theatre
