When Marnie Was There (2014)
Synopsis:
When Marnie Was There follows the story of Anna, a quiet and introspective 12-year-old girl who is sent to the countryside to live with relatives due to her asthma. While exploring the area, she discovers an old mansion and meets Marnie, a mysterious girl with long blonde hair. The two quickly form a close friendship, spending their days exploring and sharing secrets. As Anna learns more about Marnie, she becomes intrigued by the secrets surrounding her new friend and the mansion. The story unfolds with a series of adventures and discoveries, leading Anna to uncover surprising connections between her and Marnie. The film is a captivating tale of friendship and mystery, set against the backdrop of beautiful rural landscapes.
Where To Watch: When Marnie Was There
Parental Feedback
When Marnie Was There, released in 2014, is a beautifully animated drama and mystery film that captivates its audience with its enchanting storytelling and emotional depth. As a movie rated PG, it is primarily intended for kids, offering a gentle yet engaging narrative that resonates well with younger viewers. The film has been generally well-received by parents, who appreciate its artistic visuals and the heartfelt exploration of friendship and self-discovery, though some note that its themes may require a bit of parental guidance for younger children.
Why Kids Should Watch When Marnie Was There
The movie is praised for its touching portrayal of friendship and personal growth.
- Highlights the importance of understanding and empathy in friendships.
- The relationship between Anna and Marnie is depicted with warmth and sincerity.
- Stunning animation and a serene setting captivate young viewers.
- Encourages introspection and emotional intelligence.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch When Marnie Was There
Some parents express concerns about the film's emotional complexity and themes of loss.
- Themes of loneliness and abandonment may be challenging for sensitive children.
- Some scenes may be emotionally intense, requiring parental discussion.
- The narrative's subtlety might be confusing for younger audiences.
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about its emotional depth and themes of loss.
What Parents Should Know About When Marnie Was There
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Anna learns to open up and trust others, showing the value of friendship and vulnerability. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The film explores themes of loneliness and self-discovery, which may require parental guidance. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Anna's initial isolation and reluctance to connect with others are addressed as she learns to embrace friendship. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The evolving friendship between Anna and Marnie demonstrates the importance of empathy and understanding. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The film delivers a message about the healing power of friendship and self-acceptance. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
When Marnie Was There is celebrated for its beautiful animation and the depth of its storytelling, offering a poignant exploration of friendship and self-discovery. While some parents appreciate the film's emotional richness, others suggest that its themes may be too complex for very young children without guidance. Engaging in discussions about the film's themes can enhance understanding and enjoyment. For families seeking similar experiences, other Studio Ghibli films like My Neighbor Totoro or Spirited Away may also be appealing.
Official When Marnie Was There Trailer
The Core Values Learned From When Marnie Was There
When Marnie Was There's most common core values include Friendship, Self-discovery, and Emotional growth. The movie beautifully illustrates the power of friendship through the bond between Anna and Marnie, showing how their connection helps Anna open up and feel less isolated. This friendship becomes a catalyst for Anna's self-discovery, as she learns more about herself and her past, gaining confidence and Understanding in the process.
Emotional growth is highlighted as Anna navigates her feelings and learns to express them, leading to a deeper understanding of her emotions and those of others. Through their adventures and shared secrets, kids can see how these core values play out in real-life situations, encouraging them to embrace their own friendships and personal journeys.
Other Core Values Explored: Empathy | Family love | Dealing with loss | Acceptance | Compassion | Courage | Trust | Letting go | Being yourself | Respect | Building confidence. | Resilience | Self-expression | Valuing diversity | Inclusivity | Open-mindedness | Kindness
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From When Marnie Was There
Building Friendships: In When Marnie Was There, kids learn the importance of building friendships through the bond between Anna and Marnie. Their connection shows how sharing experiences and secrets can create a deep and meaningful friendship, helping Anna feel less alone and more understood.
Accepting Yourself: The movie teaches children about accepting themselves as Anna learns to embrace her own identity. Through her journey, she discovers more about her past and who she is, encouraging kids to be comfortable with who they are and to appreciate their unique qualities.
Letting Go of the Past: Anna's story highlights the lesson of letting go of the past. As she uncovers the mysteries surrounding Marnie, she learns to release past hurts and move forward, showing children the importance of healing and finding peace with their history.
Valuing Deep Connection: The film emphasizes valuing deep connections, as seen in the relationship between Anna and Marnie. Their friendship is built on trust and understanding, teaching kids the significance of forming genuine bonds with others and the comfort these connections can bring.
Healing Through Love: When Marnie Was There illustrates healing through love, as Anna's interactions with Marnie help her overcome loneliness and emotional pain. This lesson shows children how love and support from friends can be a powerful force in healing and personal growth.
Other Lessons Learned: Appreciating the Little Things | Embracing Differences | Finding Courage | Not Feeling Alone | Supporting Your Friends
Why Kids Love When Marnie Was There
When Marnie Was There invites kids into a mysterious and enchanting world where friendships blossom in unexpected ways. The film's captivating countryside setting is a playground for adventure, as Anna and Marnie explore hidden corners and uncover secrets together. Kids will be drawn to the intriguing mysteries surrounding the old mansion and the thrill of solving them alongside the characters. The story is filled with moments of wonder, from exploring nature to discovering hidden kingdoms, sparking the imagination of young viewers.
Friendly ghosts and scary-but-fun moments add a touch of excitement and suspense, keeping kids on the edge of their seats. The unique bond between Anna and Marnie showcases the joy of making new friends and finding your people, resonating with kids who value companionship and loyalty. With its blend of adventure, mystery, and heartfelt connections, the movie offers a magical experience that captivates and delights.