Heart String Marionette is not simply a movie. With elements of traditional Japanese theatre, darker anime, and ancient mythology mixed together with strange yet beautiful imagery, a majestic soundtrack, and fairytale-esque storytelling, it feels like a dream that reaches into your subconscious mind and into your heart to guide you through its web of events and characters. While the concept itself is quite original- a samurai ghost story told though digitally-animated wooden puppets- it's the mythology that writer/director/animator M dot Strange has created here that turns this concept into something truly fascinating. While the plot may be confusing to some and test the patience of others, this is because M dot Strange does not treat the viewer like an idiot, but rather makes the viewer think and look inside themselves to solve some of the seemingly intentional loose ends and vague moments this story presents. It definitely rewards the patience of its viewers, and new details are also revealed with each subsequent viewing, something that isn't a problem at all since this film has a great amount of replay value. The characters in Heart String Marionette are all unique and have their role to play in the story, but the main character Samhaine Tsuke, voiced superbly by JP Anderson, is the most fascinating character in this movie. M dot Strange has crafted a main character that is not only quite fearsome, but also quite lovable. All of the other characters are also expertly voiced, making the lines in this movie very quotable and memorable. The visuals in this film are absolutely stunning. Not only is it remarkable that M dot Strange animated this entire film on his own, but it's also remarkable how much detail has been put into everything; characters, sets, and everything in between have been crafted with so much detail and care that they are truly unforgettable. The music, composed by Endika, is incredible. The impact of many scenes is greatly enhanced by the music, which makes this story feel like a true epic. While the pacing is a bit off here and there, Heart String Marionette still pulls the viewer in and does not let go, even after the credits roll. M dot Strange has crafted a dark fairytale that has been made with more heart than any other animated film this reviewer has ever seen, and the emotions that M dot Strange has poured from his heart into this film are ultimately what have driven all of the other aspects of this film towards becoming the beautiful work of art that the film itself is. This movie is touching and emotionally poignant, while also being brutally honest in its characters and in its profound symbolism. Heart String Marionette is a masterpiece of animated storytelling. One of the best parts about this is that it feels as though M dot Strange is just getting started.
