(Disclaimer: This is more of a personal thoughts than an objectively good and well-written review. It also contains spoiler) __ # First Thoughts // Vibe Check So I saw this Netflix trailer during the pandemic on my youtube homepage, and for literally five years, it remained on my "plan to watch" list. Finally got around to watching it at last, and to be honest it was worth the wait. I wasn't prepared for the perfect summer vibe that the movie gave me. It's like a cozy hug wrapped in magical realism, just what my soul needed.
The simple, clean style of the animation simply shouts "summer vacation feels." I can't really put into words how soft and pleasant the color scheme is, but it's like gazing out at the world through those warm afternoon sunbeams. Do you know how it feels to be relaxing during summer vacation and have everything feel so... calm? That is the visual language of this film. __________ # What Hit Me Emotionally Man, I was completely destroyed by the rejection scene. Like, it WRECKED me fr. The whole buildup was so well crafted. Muge writing the letter, gathering all her courage, and then that complete ass of a classmate stealing it and reading it OUT LOUD IN FRONT OF THE ENTIRE CLASS?? I was cringing so hard I almost had to pause the movie. Then Hinode hit her with the “I hate you” line ? Made me shed a tear. That’s some next-level emotional damage right there.
However, what struck me most was how much I relate with Muge, especially back when I was in middle school (my peak cringe era). It all struck too close to home: feeling unwelcome, and hiding your sorrow behind masks. My parents had a maid to look after me back then because they were constantly at work, and I was really insecure. I hardly ever discussed school or anything significant with them. Thank god our relationship got better after they retired and started spending more time at home, but watching Muge struggle with those same feelings? That was like looking in a mirror. # Characters & Dynamic I Loved Muge and Hinode's dynamic is just chef's kiss. She's this eccentric ball of energy who's completely open about her feelings (at least on the surface), while he's got that whole "shut up but I secretly enjoy this" energy going on. I'm such a sucker for that character trope where the energetic one slowly breaks down the walls of the reserved one. It's cute as hell and feels genuine despite the magical elements.
What I love most is how both characters wear masks in their own ways. Muge literally wears two: the human mask where she hides her sadness behind over-the-top eccentricity, and the cat mask where she can be close to Hinode without the fear of rejection. It's such a smart metaphor for how we all escape reality sometimes. # What Stayed with Me "Man, how nice would it feel to become a cat and just laze around all day?" was my exact thought after watching this. Really, free food, royal treatment, and no obligations? Where do I sign up? But on a deeper level, it made me think about how we all need our escape mechanisms sometimes. After working really hard on something, don't we all just want to take a break from being human for a bit?
The movie also reminded me how important it is to actually communicate with the people you care about instead of hiding behind masks (literal or metaphorical). Yes it's scary as hell to be vulnerable, but it's one of the only ways to build genuine relationships. # A Bit of Nitpicks Okay, so while I loved the magical worldbuilding (that cat island reveal was absolutely stunning and right up my alley), I feel like there wasn't enough lore about its origins. Like how did this place come to exist? What's the full story behind the cat mask seller? And what happened to all those cats that helped Muge and Hinode escape?
These are pretty minor complaints, though. The movie works well without exploring the mythology too much, but my fantasy-loving brain wanted a bit more context about this magical world. # Final Thoughts + Who Should Watch It A Whisker Away begins as a simple story about a girl who wants to visit her crush as a cat. It then transforms into a beautiful exploration of human experience. It’s not a plot-heavy movie. It’s more of a "feelings" movie. It’s very relatable for anyone who has ever felt invisible or unwanted.
This movie is perfect for anyone who loves emotional storytelling with a touch of magic. If you're someone who gets hit hard by sweet characters going through tough times, or if you're into stories about self-acceptance and finding your identity, this one's for you. It's also great if you just want something that feels like a warm summer day in anime form.
Definitely watch this if you want to feel something or just looking to digest a simple storyline. ____ # Quick Rating Breakdown:__
- Summer Vibes: 10/10
- Emotional Damage: Moderate to High
- Cat Content: 9/10
- Cringe Factor: 8/10 (in the best way)
- Magical Worldbuilding: 7/10
- Character Chemistry: 9/10
- Relatability: 10/10 (if you were ever an awkward middle schooler)
`Final Score: A solid watch that'll make you want to hug your cat and maybe call your parents
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