Gamera the Brave (2006)

Kadokawa’s re-imagining of Gamera is a significant departure from Daiei's Heisei era style and as such deserves to be judged by different criteria. It’s very much a children’s movie, but it's one that has the potential to touch their hearts and stay in residence there as they grow and mature.
It follows Toru, a boy not yet come to terms with the death of his mother a year before. Toru has friends but spends much of his time alone. When he finds a baby turtle they form a strong bond. He protects it and as it grows it protects him. It’s a sentimental journey that isn't without its explosive moments, but the real punch in the story is the simplicity by which it’s told and the lingering aspect of the perfect ending.

3½ scarlet pearls out of 5