Liz and the Blue Bird

"Liz and the Blue Bird" (Japanese: リズと青い鳥) is a 2018 Japanese animated drama film directed by Naoko Yamada and written by Reiko Yoshida. It is based on the "Sound! Euphonium" novel series by Ayano Takeda and its eponymous anime television adaptation. Particularly inspired by the 2017 "Sound! Euphonium" novel, the film serves as a spin-off sequel to the television series, focusing on the friendship of Mizore Yoroizuka and Nozomi Kasaki, two supporting characters from the second season of the anime. Intended as a standalone work, it can be fully understood without prior knowledge of the series. The film explores the relationship between Mizore and Nozomi as they prepare for a concert, intertwined with a fairy tale from which the band's music piece is adapted. "Liz and the Blue Bird" received positive reviews, praised for its depiction of the main characters' relationship, soundtrack, and animation. The story follows the introverted Mizore and the outgoing Nozomi as they rehearse a piece called "Liz and the Blue Bird," realizing their bond parallels that of the characters in the fairy tale – the solitary Liz and a blue bird turned human. Their friendship is challenged by graduation and their futures, ultimately leading them on their separate paths.