A Silent Voice: The Movie

Shoya is a young adult struggling with his identity, past, and where he belongs. As a child, he bullied the new transfer student who suffered from hearing impairment. He was not the only one guilty of it but was the only one ostracized by the entire class. Growing up with this guilt, Shoya develops social anxiety, is unable to connect with his peers, and feels alone and isolated. He arranges his affairs and is about to end his life when he reconsiders. He decides to reach out to the girl he bullied and make amends; they become friends. Their friendship helps him confront his past and work through his issues, returning him to the world happier.

This anime film was initially released in 2016 but is being re-released for its 5th anniversary. It was most definitely worth the watch. The story gives perspective on what a bully might be going through before and after what they have done. It shows how a single incident in a child's life can have profound and long-lasting effects. It shows the struggles a child with a disability faces while growing up and attempting to interact with people without a disability. The story has many layers, keeping the viewer engaged and captivated. The movie is long, but it progresses quickly as time flies. Even if you are not a fan of anime, this movie should be on your watch list.