The Wild Swans

Wild Swans is one of Hans Christian Anderson's best fairy tales and I am so glad to see it got a worthy adaptation with this film. The story involves a young girl named Elisa, who is determined to restore her brothers, who have been cursed to change into swans by day, into their original human states. It's not a sunny fairy tale; there is much sadness and suffering, but by the end, all the characters have persevered and earned their happy ending.

The animation and film style will not appeal to everybody, especially those used to the lavishness of the Disney or Ghibli studios. Much of it is in long shot and the backgrounds are very minimalist. The character designs are doll like and not terribly detailed. It does take some getting used to for those who are not used to the style, but once the taste is acquired, they are very lovely.

Ultimately, this is a touching and beautifully rendered fairy tale. Fans of animation and Hans Christian Anderson should not miss out.