Another good film for fans of “Grave of the Fireflies” is “In This Corner of the World”, which is based on a manga series by the same name.
The setting is similar to GOTF (WWII Japan), but the movie follows the life of a young, newly-wed housewife who helps to care for her husband’s family. This film also has a stronger focus on the Atomic Bombing of Japan, particularly Hiroshima, than GOTF. It’s a great film that similarly utilizes the practice of hand-drawn animation, a distinctive characteristic of Studio Ghibli pictures.
It’s not a replica of or exact alternative to GOTF, which I particularly enjoy because of the different civilian viewpoint on such a tragic era in history, but others may not like the differences and will be compelled to compare ITCOTW to GOTF, instead of seeing it as it’s own story.
It’s a beautifully heart-wrenching story that will keep you thinking long after the credits roll out. If you want to see another well-executed WWII anime film with a gorgeous soundtrack (and a bit of a happier ending), I fully recommend ITCOTW.
Available to watch on Nexflix in the US (not sure about other countries)
Here’s the trailer, featuring one of my favorite songs on the soundtrack, “Kanashikute Yarikirenai”.