Ever felt like the weather mirrored your emotions? Anime has a knack for capturing the human experience, and few do it as beautifully as films centered around rain. They are not just animation but immersive emotional journeys, and one film that particularly stands out in this genre is Makoto Shinkai's "Weathering with You."

"Weathering with You" (Tenki no Ko, lit. Child of Weather), a 2019 Japanese animated romantic fantasy film, is a testament to Shinkai's directorial and writing prowess. Produced by Comix Wave Films and distributed by Toho, the movie features the voices of Kotaro Daigo, Nana Mori, Tsubasa Honda, and Sakura Kiryu. The film's score, composed by Radwimps, further enhances its emotional depth. Genki Kawamura produced the movie. Its release in Japan on July 19, 2019, coincided with the publication of the novel adaptation, marking a multimedia event that captivated audiences.

Aspect	Details
Title	Weathering with You (Tenki no Ko, lit. Child of Weather)
Genre	Japanese Animated Romantic Fantasy
Year	2019
Director	Makoto Shinkai
Production	Comix Wave Films
Distribution	Toho
Cast	Kotaro Daigo, Nana Mori, Tsubasa Honda, Sakura Kiryu
Music	Radwimps
Release Date	July 19, 2019 (Japan)
Based on	Original story by Makoto Shinkai (also adapted into a novel and manga)
Themes	Climate change, sacrifice, love, responsibility
Setting	Tokyo, Japan
Related Links	IMDB

Set against the backdrop of Tokyo, which is experiencing incessant rain, "Weathering with You" follows Hodaka Morishima, a high school freshman who runs away from his island home. Struggling to survive in the bustling city, he finds work as a writer for a magazine that explores occult phenomena. It is during this time that he encounters Hina Amano, an orphaned girl with the ability to control the weather.

The film deftly intertwines the personal stories of Hodaka and Hina with the larger issue of climate change. Shinkai doesn't shy away from depicting the consequences of environmental neglect, portraying the constant rain as a divine punishment. The narrative invites viewers to contemplate the ethical dilemmas posed by extreme weather events and the sacrifices individuals are willing to make for the greater good. The movie treats the constant downpour as more than just a meteorological phenomenon; it becomes a character in itself, influencing the lives and decisions of those caught within its grasp. Shinkai's artistic vision transforms the rain into a symbol of both despair and hope, creating a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience for the audience.

Shinkais reputation as a visionary director was cemented by the global success of his 2016 film, "Your Name." The film shattered box office records and solidified Shinkais position as a leading figure in Japanese animation. "Weathering with You" further demonstrates Shinkai's ability to blend fantastical elements with poignant human stories, attracting a broad audience both within Japan and internationally. His focus on the emotional core of his characters, coupled with breathtaking animation, has resonated deeply with viewers around the world.

One of the most compelling aspects of "Weathering with You" is its exploration of the relationship between Takao Akizuki, an aspiring shoemaker, and Yukari Yukino, a mysterious woman he meets in a garden on a rainy morning in Tokyo. Their connection blossoms amidst the gloomy weather, providing solace and companionship. As Takao offers to make Yukari new shoes, their meetings become a sanctuary from the worries of the outside world. Their interactions highlight the film's theme of finding comfort and connection in unexpected places, even during times of adversity. This subplot provides a poignant counterpoint to the main narrative, showcasing the different ways people cope with the challenges presented by the relentless rain.

The film's soundtrack, primarily composed by Radwimps, plays a crucial role in setting the tone and amplifying the emotional impact of key scenes. Shinkai has noted that the music was instrumental in distinguishing "Weathering with You" from other anime productions. The theme song, "Rain," originally a popular Japanese song from 1988 written and composed by Senri Oe, is used effectively throughout the film, evoking a sense of nostalgia and longing. The harmonious blend of music and animation elevates the storytelling, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable cinematic experience. The film score is not just background music but an integral part of the narrative, guiding the audience through the emotional landscape of the story.

For those captivated by the atmospheric charm of rain in anime, "Weathering with You" offers a central plot deeply intertwined with the weather. Unlike anime where rain appears fleetingly, such as in certain episodes of "Fruits Basket" and "Naruto" where it symbolizes loss and sadness, this film makes rain a focal point. Other anime, like "Garden of Words" and "Rain Town," utilize rain to create a specific, atmospheric mood, but "Weathering with You" elevates it to a narrative device that drives the story forward. The weather becomes a character in its own right, influencing the characters' decisions and shaping the world around them.

Beyond "Weathering with You," numerous anime films explore the theme of rain in captivating ways. According to data from approximately 1.7 million movie and TV show fans per day, several anime films stand out as particularly noteworthy. Among the best anime films about rain, viewers often recommend "Paprika," "Hikaru's Go," "The Anthem of the Heart," "Millennium Actress," "The Princess and the Pilot," "Stormy Night," "Porco Rosso," "Akira," "Children of the Sea," and "Steins;Gate." These films showcase the diverse ways in which rain can be used to enhance storytelling, evoke emotions, and create memorable visual experiences.

Another noteworthy example is "After the Rain," which currently ranks 6977 on the JustWatch daily streaming charts, having moved up 2625 places since yesterday. This anime features Akira Tachibana, a reserved high school student and former track star who had to give up running due to an injury. Despite the age difference, Akira finds herself drawn to Masami Kondo, the 45-year-old manager of the family restaurant where she works. This narrative explores themes of unrequited love and personal growth against the backdrop of a rainy setting, further illustrating the versatile ways in which rain can be used in anime storytelling.

The immersive and comforting ambiance of rain in anime is something many viewers appreciate. From the meticulous animation of raindrops to the symbolic use of weather in reflecting characters' emotions, anime filmmakers masterfully incorporate rain into their narratives. Whether it serves as a backdrop for romance, a metaphor for sadness, or a catalyst for change, rain consistently adds depth and texture to the anime viewing experience. This attention to detail is part of what draws viewers into the worlds created by anime artists and makes the experience all the more memorable.

Looking ahead, fans of atmospheric anime can anticipate the release of "Phantom in the Rain," a 2024 anime movie that follows up on the Mononoke anime series. Released in Japanese theaters on July 26, 2024, with an English dub produced by Iyuno SDI Group and released on Netflix on November 28, 2024, this film promises to offer another unique perspective on the theme of rain in anime. Animated by Eota, directed by Kenji Nakamura, and composed by Taku Iwasaki, "Phantom in the Rain" is already generating buzz among anime enthusiasts. The movie is one of the popular options, with fans eager to discover anime movies similar to "Weathering with You," and has inspired lists of 20 different anime movies that capture the same essence.

"Phantom in the Rain" (Gekijban Mononoke: Karakasa) promises to be a visually and narratively compelling addition to the anime landscape. With its unique artistic style and intriguing storyline, the film is poised to resonate with audiences seeking immersive and thought-provoking anime experiences. The continuation of the Mononoke series offers a familiar yet fresh perspective, blending elements of mystery, folklore, and social commentary. The anticipation surrounding this release underscores the enduring appeal of anime as a medium for exploring complex themes and captivating viewers with its distinctive storytelling techniques.

Ultimately, "Weathering with You" stands as a prime example of anime's capacity to tackle significant issues while delivering a deeply personal and moving story. Through its stunning animation, compelling characters, and evocative use of music and weather, the film creates a cinematic experience that stays with viewers long after the credits roll. Whether you are a pluviophile drawn to the calming presence of rain or simply a fan of exceptional storytelling, "Weathering with You" is a must-see for anyone seeking a truly unforgettable anime film.