eceives some news that is going to change her life and upset her equilibrium. Even at her tender age, she knows this is a profound moment in her life. The symbolism here is boldly yet subtly presented through the eyes of a child who might really consider she is a manifestation of God. That’s not so much a heavenly or divine being, more an undefinable concept that fuels her imagination, drives her curiosity and with a degree of mysticism emerging from her rapport with “Nishio-san” this exudes a sense of warmth and humanity that is touching, mischievous and innocent, too. That said, this simply drawn and colourful animation also tangentially exposes us to some of the rigidity of organised faith as a tool to exercise authority - physical and moral, and the ever gobbling carp have quite an emotionally powerful role to play, too. These messages are not all that this drama represents as “Amélie” isn’t averse to some giggling, joy and the odd strop to remind us that even though the story wants to touch on issues of faith, and even the troubled recent history of Japan, this is still a film about the elementary evolution of a charming young girl and of her friendships.