Violet Evergarden: The Movie - Characters & Cast

Her primary motivation remains to fully understand the meaning of Gilbert's last words, "I love you." This evolves into a desire to express her own love for him and find closure after years of uncertainty and hope.

Violet completes her transformation from an emotionally detached child soldier into a fully realized human being. Having learned the mechanics of empathy throughout the series, the film sees her internalize these lessons. She is no longer just performing a job; she understands the weight of the emotions she conveys. Her arc culminates in her being able to articulate her own love and make a life-altering choice for herself, not out of duty, but from personal desire, finally leaving her past behind to embrace a future with Gilbert.

His motivation is rooted in self-punishment and a misguided desire to protect Violet from his own perceived toxicity. He believes that staying away is the greatest act of love he can offer her.

Gilbert's arc is one of overcoming profound guilt and self-loathing. Believing he ruined Violet's life by involving her in the war, he isolates himself on a remote island, punishing himself by refusing to see her. He acts as a teacher and protector for the island's children, attempting to atone for his past. Through the encouragement of his brother Dietfried and, most importantly, Violet's final, heartfelt letter, he learns to forgive himself and accept the love he feels he doesn't deserve, allowing him to finally reunite with her.

His motivation is to protect Violet and honor his friend Gilbert's wish for her to live and be free. He acts as a bridge between Violet's past and her potential future.

Hodgins continues his role as Violet's steadfast guardian and employer. His arc in the film is about letting go. He has watched over Violet as a promise to Gilbert, guiding her integration into civilian life. Finding Gilbert alive presents him with a dilemma. His journey culminates in him facilitating their reunion and accepting Violet's decision to resign from the postal company and live her own life, completing his duty to his friend and his ward.

His motivation is to help his brother, Gilbert, find peace and to fully atone for his own past cruelty toward Violet. He seeks to mend the broken relationships he had a hand in creating.

Dietfried, who once saw Violet as nothing more than a tool and blamed her for his brother's 'death', shows significant growth. Having reconciled with Violet in the series, he now actively works to heal his family's wounds. He urges Gilbert to face his past and see Violet, acknowledging the profound bond they share and accepting her as family. His arc is one of redemption and reconciliation, moving from resentment to compassionate understanding.