The Napping Princess HIFF Movie Review

To describe Napping Princess would be like trying to give a brief description of Japanese pop culture. It’s one of those movies that must be seen in person and requires some thinking. It can be emotional at times and confusing as hell in other parts but it’ll make you laugh and for what it’s worth, it’s full of heart. And that’s a good thing.

            Here’s a brief synopsis: Kokone Morikawa has vivid dreams of a fairy tale, elements of which seem to crisscross into the real world. This dreams are so real in fact, they open the movie, confusing both myself and some audience members if I was watching the right movie. Kokone’s father, a brilliant mechanic, is acting more withdrawn than usual and is arrested, accused of stealing technology from a powerful corporation. She sets out on a journey to save him, with her mysterious dreams providing the answers she might need.

            The art style is gorgeous, done to the tinniest of details like real Japanese business logos, vending machines, automobiles, and motorcycles. The real world is set against what feels like real life Japan, against a backdrop of VR gadgets, cellphone and tablets, automated vehicles, and the 2020 Olympic Games. The dream world is where it gets interesting: there is definitely inspiration brought in from Final Fantasy, elements that feel right at place in the Legend of Korra universe, giant mechs, animism, and magic is coding. That last part is important, for that’s where both the dream world and the real world collide and a whole slew of magical reality is layered over the plot. The two narratives seem separate at first but they come crashing through as the movie goes on, to the point where the audience doesn’t know which is which anymore. The writers give the audience just enough details to figure out what is real or not but its fun not knowing.

            Other elements include the creepiest “down to earth” villain Japan has put out in a while; he doesn’t have any real magic but he can cast a “curse” with a viral social media post, animal companions, a guy who is supposed to be a love interest but not really, family secrets, family bonds, and reconciliation. All good stuff for a hopeful future.

            Aside from all the meticulous details, the soundtrack is epic, almost to the feel of a fantasy movie blockbuster. It could very well be one of the best scores I’ve heard all year.

            Overall, the Napping Princess is a great movie for families; there are some dramatic moments and a few instants that a younger audience might not get, but it’s not too violent or vulgar to turn adults away. If you get a chance to see it, either subbed or dubbed, watch it.