When Simplicity is All That is Needed Reviewers note: Ill be referring to this movie as Flight of the White Wolf and Flight for short and not White Fang because the latter is not the book this movie is adapted from and there is another anime film titled White Fang that is an adaptation of said book. The story of Flight of the White Wolf is not a complex one its blunt in its premise and precise with its structure. On one hand its a story that could have been told in 30 minutes. And on the other its a story that uses its length to let scenes and moments breathe as long as it needs to either for the characters sake or the audiences. I think where the film truly shines is how this story is told both in its simple premise and its tone. Its a film that takes itself seriously but doesnt push the envelope. It is exactly what it needed to be: simple. And I do not mean that as a criticism obviously. Its one of the reasons why I like this movie. With so few characters the film almost exclusively focuses on the two main ones Russet and his pet wolf Gray. We see their journey north truly fleshed out and it lets us bond with them more as they struggle through adversity after adversity. We get a real sense of Russets resolve and his love for Gray he knows what he must do and is determined to see it end for Grays sake. Russet is competent though being a kid he does make some mistakes hardly a point of critique though seeing as he treks through the Wisconsin wilderness essentially alone a commendable feat that is in my opinion no way unbelievable for him though I would have liked to see a bit more of his wilderness survival skillset. Hes steadfast being calm enough for both him and his wolf. Hes selfless patient and intelligent. Some could say hes foolish for taking on such a daunting endeavor but the love he has for his friend and he makes several points of this sentiment throughout the movie is enough to carry him through to the end. Gray is introduced as well a wolf stereotypically vicious and beastly. But at his core he is stalwart he stays at Russets side the entire journey lest his instincts kick in. And there is that looming danger to him perhaps artificially created drama that Gray will eventually become more wild more unfamiliar to Russet. So not only does Russet have to contend with the threat of Gray being hunted but also of Gray abandoning him as a friend. Its a compelling conflict that is told nicely through a character that doesnt speak. A conflict that could be relatable to some. Aside from the character drama there is the ever present threat of being caught throughout the film. Never too far away its always in the back of Russets mind and it was in my mind as well never knowing when exactly that moment would come if it all. It presented a kind of subdued excitement a hushed thrill that intensified only occasionally. The artwork and the music are exceptional. Ive never been to the Wisconsin wilderness but the cool colors of foggy mornings and moody overcasts the dark hues at night or the blinding whites of snow covered fields and forests gave a realistic impression of the woods and wilderness. Beautiful really. The score is great adding to the drama when needed and being absent when needed. A wonderful combination of visuals and sounds that authenticates the story being shown on screen. With an emotional end the films center is friendship and loss. The struggle to keep those you love safe but knowing when its time to say goodbye and that moment you realize you cant protect them forever. Compared to what most anime is what most mainstream anime is Flight is one not beholden to unnecessary filler or flare. It doesnt need that and its why this film can stand out if youre looking for a more subdued story and more grounded characters. Theres no fantasy no romance no mystery no comedy but it is an adventure where the stakes are ever present. Its tense without being thrilling its dramatic without being operatic. Because it is an older film and isnt as loud or as colorful as contemporary anime some may find the film boring. I admit I had that same prejudice when it started but by the end I was glad I watched it. It made me appreciate more realistic and grounded animation and want more of it. If anything to remind everyone that a good story can be told just by being simple.