Discover Weathering With You, a breathtaking anime film by Makoto Shinkai. With mesmerizing visuals, a heartwarming love story, and a thought-provoking message about climate change, this film is a must-watch for all anime lovers.
Introduction: A Love Story Set Against the Stormy Skies
What if you could control the weather with just a prayer? Would you use this power to help others—or to change your own fate?
Weathering With You (Tenki no Ko), directed by Makoto Shinkai, takes us on a breathtaking journey through a rain-drenched Tokyo, where two teenagers discover the power of love, sacrifice, and hope. Released in 2019, this film was Shinkai’s highly anticipated follow-up to Your Name, and it did not disappoint.
While Your Name focused on fate and time travel, Weathering With You dives into themes of climate change, personal choice, and the price of happiness. Let’s explore this masterpiece in depth.
Plot Summary (Spoiler-Free)
The story follows Hodaka Morishima, a runaway high schooler who arrives in Tokyo, only to find himself struggling to survive. As he faces financial difficulties, he crosses paths with Hina Amano, a girl with a mysterious ability—she can clear the rain and summon sunshine just by praying.
Tokyo is experiencing never-ending rain, and when Hodaka learns about Hina’s power, they start a small business offering “Sunshine Services” to people who need clear skies for special occasions. Weddings, festivals, and everyday happiness become possible thanks to Hina.
But as they soon realize, changing the weather comes at a cost. The balance of nature must be maintained, and Hina’s body begins to weaken. As the rain worsens and authorities begin closing in on them, Hodaka is faced with an impossible choice:
Should he save the girl he loves – or let Tokyo drown?
Themes and Symbolism: A Deeper Look
1. Love vs. Responsibility: A Tough Choice
Unlike most love stories, Weathering With You forces its characters to make heartbreaking decisions. Should you sacrifice yourself for the greater good? Or should love be prioritized over everything else?
Makoto Shinkai doesn’t offer easy answers. Instead, he lets the audience decide what’s right or wrong.
2. Climate Change: The Hidden Message
Beneath the romantic drama, Weathering With You subtly explores climate change. Tokyo is drowning under relentless rain, mirroring our real-world environmental crisis.
But the film’s message is clear: Nature follows its course, whether we like it or not.
3. Escaping Reality: The Struggles of Youth
Hodaka and Hina both struggle with personal issues:
Hodaka runs away from home, seeking freedom but ending up homeless and jobless.
Hina takes care of her younger brother, battling poverty and uncertainty.
Their love story isn’t just about romance—it’s about finding hope in a world that often feels unfair.
Character Analysis: The Heart of the Story
Hodaka Morishima – The Determined Runaway
A 16-year-old boy searching for purpose in Tokyo.
Shows immense bravery and loyalty, especially in his love for Hina.
His character development is central to the story—he learns to fight for what he believes in.
Hina Amano – The Sunshine Girl
A girl with the power to clear the skies with prayer.
Strong, independent, and mature beyond her years.
Her love for her younger brother and her willingness to sacrifice herself make her one of Shinkai’s most memorable heroines.
Supporting Characters
Keisuke Suga – A struggling journalist who becomes a mentor to Hodaka.
Natsumi Suga – Keisuke’s assistant, adding humor and charm to the story.
Nagi Amano – Hina’s little brother, a surprisingly wise and hilarious character.
Visuals & Animation: A Breathtaking Masterpiece
Shinkai is known for jaw-dropping visuals, and Weathering With You is no exception.
Rain animations are hyper-realistic, making every drop feel tangible.
Sunlight scenes burst with warmth, creating an emotional contrast to the rain.
Tokyo’s cityscapes are detailed to perfection, making the city feel alive.
Every frame is a work of art, proving why Shinkai is often called “the next Miyazaki.”
Soundtrack & Music: The Emotional Core
The RADWIMPS return to compose the soundtrack, delivering unforgettable music that enhances every scene.
Some standout tracks include:
“Is There Still Anything That Love Can Do?” – A powerful song that captures the film’s central theme of love vs. fate.
“Grand Escape” – An uplifting yet emotional track played during the climax.
“We’ll Be Alright” – A hopeful song that perfectly fits the film’s ending.
Shinkai’s films are known for their perfect music choices, and Weathering With You is no different.
Why Weathering With You is a Must-Watch
✅ A Unique Take on Love & Fate
Unlike traditional romance films, this one forces characters to make tough, morally gray decisions.
✅ A Visual & Musical Treat
From breathtaking animation to an unforgettable soundtrack, every aspect of this film is a sensory delight.
✅ A Story That Stays With You
Weathering With You raises important questions about climate change, sacrifice, and love, making it one of the most thought-provoking anime films in recent years.
Pros & Cons
✅ Stunning animation and world-building
✅ Emotional and relatable characters
✅ A compelling blend of romance, fantasy, and drama
✅ A deeper message about nature and sacrifice
❌ Some may find the ending bittersweet or controversial
Final Verdict: 9.5/10 – A Modern Anime Classic
If you loved Your Name, you must watch Weathering With You. It’s a touching, visually stunning film that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll.
⭐ Rating: 9.5/10 – Highly Recommended
Join the Conversation!
What’s your view on Weathering with you? What do you think about its message on climate change? Let’s discuss in the comments below!
Recommended Anime & Merch for Fans
Weathering with you manga: https://amzn.to/3QSRLFH
If you loved Weathering With You, check out:
Your Name (Makoto Shinkai’s masterpiece)
5 Centimeters per Second (A heartbreaking tale of distance and love)
A Silent Voice (A deeply emotional story of redemption and self-worth)