Violet Evergarden: Eternity and the Auto Memory Doll
One-line Summary:
In “Violet Evergarden: Eternity and the Auto Memory Doll,” directed by Haruka Fujita, a young woman named Violet Evergarden finds herself working as an Auto Memory Doll, a profession that involves writing letters for others. Set in the aftermath of a great war, the film explores Violet’s journey of self-discovery as she learns to navigate the complexities of human emotions and relationships.
Cast and Crew:
- Director: Haruka Fujita
- Writer: Reiko Yoshida
- Main Cast:
- Yui Ishikawa as Violet Evergarden
- Minako Kotobuki as Isabella York
- Aoi Yuki as Taylor Bartlett
- Kouki Uchiyama as Benedict Blue
- Music Director: Evan Call
- Director of Photography: Kohei Funamoto
- Producers: Shinichiro Hatta, Shigeru Saito, Kazusa Umeda, and Takuya Sato
Plot:
Set in the fictional country of Leidenschaftlich, “Violet Evergarden: Eternity and the Auto Memory Doll” follows the story of Violet Evergarden, a former soldier who lost her arms in the war. She now works as an Auto Memory Doll, a profession that involves writing heartfelt letters on behalf of others. Violet is assigned to work with Isabella York, a young noblewoman who is grieving the loss of her beloved sister, Taylor Bartlett.
As Violet and Isabella spend time together, they form a deep bond. Isabella, initially cold and distant, gradually opens up to Violet, sharing her pain and sorrow. Through their interactions, Isabella learns to heal and find solace in the memories of her sister. Meanwhile, Violet continues her own journey of self-discovery, grappling with her own emotions and the meaning of love.
The film also explores the lives of other characters, such as Benedict Blue, a playwright who struggles with writer’s block, and his childhood friend, Cattleya Baudelaire, who works as an Auto Memory Doll alongside Violet. Their stories intertwine with Violet and Isabella’s, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
Themes and Motifs:
“Violet Evergarden: Eternity and the Auto Memory Doll” delves into themes of grief, healing, and the power of human connection. It explores the profound impact that words can have on people’s lives, as well as the importance of empathy and understanding in navigating emotional turmoil. The film also examines the aftermath of war and the lasting scars it leaves on individuals and society as a whole.
Reception and Legacy:
Upon its release, “Violet Evergarden: Eternity and the Auto Memory Doll” received critical acclaim for its beautiful animation, compelling storytelling, and emotional depth. The film was praised for its exploration of complex themes and its ability to evoke strong emotions in its audience. It won the Best Animation Film award at the 2020 Mainichi Film Awards and was nominated for several other prestigious awards.
The legacy of “Violet Evergarden: Eternity and the Auto Memory Doll” lies in its ability to touch the hearts of viewers and leave a lasting impact. It continues the legacy of the original “Violet Evergarden” series, which has garnered a dedicated fanbase and has been praised for its poignant storytelling and character development.
Recommendation:
“Violet Evergarden: Eternity and the Auto Memory Doll” is a must-watch for fans of the original series and anyone who appreciates beautifully animated films with heartfelt storytelling. It offers a profound exploration of human emotions and the power of words, leaving a lasting impression on its audience.
Memorable Quote:
“Words can connect people’s hearts. Even if they can’t be seen, they are always there.”
