Today’s quick review: Like the Clouds, Like the Wind. In 17th-century China, Ginga (Ryoko Sano), a cheerful country girl, travels to the capital to become the wife of the new Emperor (Emiya Ichikawa). There, her coarse manners and upbeat personality set her apart from the other candidates. But as the selection process comes to an end, the Emperor faces betrayal from within when his stepmother (Ikuko Tani) conspires to overthrow him.
Like the Clouds, Like the Wind is a Japanese animated historical drama. The movie depicts a fictionalized period of unrest in Chinese history, as seen through the eyes of a country girl who dreams of becoming the Empress. The core of the story is Ginga, whose kind heart and rough exterior are a breath of fresh air in the tense, formal world of court politics. Her unique perspective gives the movie both some comedy and some emotional heft.
Like the Clouds, Like the Wind strikes a fascinating balance with its tone. The story itself is a drama, with all of the war and intrigue of historical China. But the presentation skews closer to a comedy or adventure, with a cheerful main character, a charming art style, and sanitized violence. The result is a rarity: a story that has some gravity to it, but whose dramatic weight isn’t overwhelming.
Like the Clouds, Like the Wind is a worthwhile pick when you are in the mood for something bittersweet. The movie is not as shocking or action-packed as other stories set in historical China, but its likable main character and generally light tone make it a pleasant experience. Approach with caution if you are looking for either a pure comedy or an intricate drama.
For an action-oriented tale of war and political intrigue set in historical China, try Curse of the Golden Flower, Shadow, or Hero. For a beautiful animated fantasy adventure with a similarly nuanced heroine, try Spirited Away.
[6.7 out of 10 on IMDB](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0185429/). I give it a 7.0 for a balanced story built around a charming main character.