Something bizarre has come over the land. The kingdom is deteriorating. People are beginning to act strange... What's even more strange is that people are beginning to see dragons, which shouldn't enter the world of humans. Due to all these bizarre events, Ged, a wandering wizard, is investigating the cause. During his journey, he meets Prince Arren, a young distraught teenage boy. While Arren may look like a shy young teen, he has a severe dark side, which grants him strength, hatred, ruthlessness and has no mercy, especially when it comes to protecting Teru. For the witch Kumo this is a perfect opportunity. She can use the boy's "fears" against the very one who would help him, Ged.
There's a whole lot going on in the Japanese anime fantasy Tales From Earthsea, so why is it such a bore?
– Gary Goldstein,
Los Angeles Times,
13 Aug 2010
rotten:
The themes and memorable imagery in Earthsea will be familiar to fans of Studio Ghibli, but the storytelling and animation are a step behind.
– Peter Hartlaub,
San Francisco Chronicle,
13 Aug 2010
fresh:
The Miyazaki legacy is in good hands.
– Kyle Smith,
New York Post,
13 Aug 2010
rotten:
If this starchy, nearly two-hour allegory about human hubris bluntly addresses a historical moment when global warming threatens the planet and pollution is fouling the seas, its chilly, formal tone keeps you at an emotional distance.