The Tunnel to Summer, the Exit of Goodbyes

I watched this film recently on an international flight.

I found my seat, waved the ground goodbye, and began to peruse the onboard movie catalogue. Hollywood hits, classics, and some foreign one-offs made up 90% of the selection. Then, I stumbled upon one that stood out, one I had not seen (or heard of, frankly) before. Intrigued, I read the brief description. Something along the lines of, "A boy hears rumors about a tunnel that grants wishes, and embarks on a journey to retrieve his deceased sister." Blunt, if not dark, but I decided to give it a chance.

What followed was an emotional, and beautifully animated, masterpiece that simultaneously maintained a refreshingly simple storyline. The characters are believable, the setting is appropriate, and the ending left me content. To be honest, I had to stifle my tears near the climax.

In this age of films with confusing narratives that need three or four sequels to make even a lick of sense, I was astounded by how well "The Tunnel to Summer, the Exit of Goodbyes" captured the long lost art of telling a satisfying story in 90 minutes. There is joy, there is grief, and there is riveting conflict that makes you cheer on the protagonist.

Best of all, the movie ties its loose ends. I wouldn't ask for more, and I couldn't ask for less.

Overall, I can only look back on "The Tunnel to Summer, the Exit of Goodbyes" with a warmth in my heart. I'm told a lovely story that doesn't leave me yearning for more, but instead leaves me content. I would highly recommend you watch this with a friend or loved one, and share the happiness of indulging in a fulfilling movie.