Suzume: More Than Just Pretty Animation (But OMG the Animation)

Okay, people, just saw Suzume and I'm still processing. Like, visually? It's breathtaking. I knew Makoto Shinkai was a wizard with landscapes and lighting, but this is next level. There's this scene early on, right after Suzume meets Souta by the abandoned onsen, and she's running up the hill towards the mysterious door. The way the light hits the grass, the wind… it felt real. I was completely hooked from that moment. I swear, I screenshotted like half the movie. Story-wise, it's... complex. I'm still not sure I fully get it, especially the whole Daijin/Sadaijin thing. Cute cats, sure, but their motivations felt a little thin? And Souta being turned into a chair was both hilarious and kinda heartbreaking. Poor guy. I did appreciate the themes of loss and healing, especially how Suzume's trauma was tied into the larger threat facing Japan. The earthworms were creepy AF though, ngl. I think my biggest issue is that it felt a little too predictable in places? Like, I knew exactly where the climax was heading. But honestly, the sheer beauty of the animation and the emotional core of Suzume's journey more than made up for it. Plus, the soundtrack is amazing; RADWIMPS really delivered. I need to rewatch it a few times to fully unpack everything, but first impression? I really liked it. Maybe a little too much, haha! Anyone else feel this way? Oh, and I can’t forget to mention the car scene… that was pure chaos but also so good. I’m wondering though, does anyone know the director's name? I should know this but I clearly forgot. Maybe I should go back to film school LOL