052: wolf children, motherhood, & learning to let go | cryable anime with gabe (pt. 2)

This week, we're back with Gabe (@daemoncorps) for part 2 of our cryable anime series.

Arns takes us through Mamoru Hosoda's 2012 masterpiece Wolf Children, a heartbreaking story following one mother's journey raising two half-human, half-wolf children all on her own. Beneath this single mother's relentless optimism lies a bittersweet understanding: that the greatest gift we can give a loved one isn't just sacrifice, but the freedom to choose who they want to be.

Note: this is the conclusion of our two-part cryable anime series with Gabe. Check out episode 051 (part 1) for Nins' coverage of 5 Centimeters per Second. 

About our guest: Gabe is a Filipino American, Bay Area-based, self-taught artist. A talented writer, he draws us in with his compelling video essays: some hot takes, others deeply emotional, but all incredibly thoughtful. Visit Gabe's portfolio or follow along on Instagram to learn more about him and his work.

In this episode:

  • Wolf Children (2012) & Mamoru Hosoda

  • motherhood, identity, & unconditional love

  • learning when to hold on—and when to let go

  • anime as emotional storytelling

  • stories showing the complexity and messiness of parenthood

  • letting go as the ultimate act of trust and love


Chapters:

  • 0:00: Preview

  • 2:00: Welcome back to Gabe & introducing part 2

  • 7:39: Why Gabe recommended Wolf Children to Arns

  • 10:37: Arns breaks down Wolf Children (extreme spoiler alert!)

  • 29:13: Ame's arc & the soul-crushing ending of Wolf Children

  • 38:41: What does it mean to be a parent?

  • 42:16: The complexity of parenthood in Wolf Children

  • 53:13: Diversify your pop culture

  • 54:39: Gabe's cry rec

  • 58:39: Gift giving & goodbye, Gabe!

Referenced in this episode:

Until next time…brb crying :’)

Next
Next

051: 5 centimeters per second & why lingering hope hurts | cryable anime with gabe (pt. 1)