They say there are always two sides to every war but only one losing side; humanity. War is a theme often explored in media and has a tendency to be glorified. Unlike many other war texts, Isao Takahata’s “Grave of the Fireflies” exposes the true nature of war and provides insight into the lives of those affected. From the beginning, Takahata condemns the idea of patriotism by characterising the film’s protagonist, Seita, as an archetype for the Japanese nationalist pride and militaristic enthusiasm that existed amongst the Japanese society prior to the war. He starts the film with a statement from the protagonist, “September 21st, 1945… That was the night I died”. Already, audiences are faced with the complication of death, but by immediately