When Marnie Was There

Synopsis

In "When Marnie Was There," Anna Sasaki, a shy and introverted girl troubled by asthma, lives with her foster parents. Her condition often makes her feel isolated and a worry for those around her. To improve her health, Anna is sent to spend the summer with her aunt and uncle in a quiet coastal village, where she can be surrounded by nature and her love of drawing. While exploring, Anna finds an old, seemingly abandoned mansion called the Marsh House. Inside, she unexpectedly meets Marnie, a lively and mysterious girl. Through their nightly meetings, Marnie helps Anna overcome her social barriers and embrace life more fully. However, as summer nears its end, Anna begins to uncover the deeper truths hidden within the walls of the Marsh House. "When Marnie Was There" is a touching story of friendship and personal growth set during a memorable summer that will forever shape Anna's journey toward self-discovery.

Background

Omoide no Marnie is based on Joan G. Robinson's English children's novel classic When Marnie Was There. The movie was nominated for Animation of the Year at the 38th Japan Academy Prize Awards and Best Animated Feature Film at the 9th Asia Pacific Screen Awards in 2015. The movie won an award for Best Animated Feature Film at the Chicago International Children's Film Festival in 2015. Other nominations include Best Animated Feature (Independent) at the 43rd Annual Annie Awards and Academy Award for Best Animated Feature at the 88th Academy Awards in 2016.