When Marnie Was There Synopsis
DESCRIPTION
When Marnie Was There (2014) is a tale of shy, 12 year-old Anna, who is sent to her foster parent’s relative’s house in the countryside for some fresh air to help recover from asthma attacks. She grows close to a neighborhood girl named Marnie and they become the best of friends.
Marnie lives in the mansion on the marsh and seems to belong to another time. Through their friendship, Anna discovers secrets about her past, as well as unraveling the truth about Marnie. Marnie helps Anna make new friends and start a new life. The film depicts strong bonds of friendship and the beauty of self-acceptance.
CHARACTERS
- Anna: Anna struggles with self-esteem and feelings of isolation. Sent to a small town in Hokkaido for her health, Anna becomes friends with Marnie, who helps her confront her insecurities and uncover secrets about her past and Marnie’s true identity.
- Marnie: A mysterious girl who lives in a decaying mansion by the marsh in Hokkaido. Marnie’s openness to adventure and desire for friendship comforts Anna and makes it easy for them to become friends. Marnie’s true identity is revealed once Anna overcomes her fears and insecurities.
- Setsu and Kiyomasa Oiwa: The elderly couple who take Anna in during her stay in Hokkaido.
- Sayaka: A local girl who becomes Anna’s friend later in the story, and who helps Anna uncover the truth about her past.
- Yoriko: Anna’s foster mother, who struggles to connect with her emotionally.
THEMES
- Loneliness & isolation
- Self-discovery during adolescence
- Bonds of friendship
- Family ties
- Struggles of self-acceptance
