If you’re at least involved in animated films, you’ve already heard of Studio Ghibli. It’s a Japanese animation company that has primarily focused on film production since its founding in June 1985. It has produced a number of well-received films, 15 of which are among Japan’s highest-grossing films!
In any case, it’s important to see where Studio Ghibli plays into this anti-anime “epidemic.” On the one side, due to Disney, the studio is more popular than most other anime, which means that most people have heard of them. On the other hand, it isn’t brought up too much. In my own experience, I’ve had to poke dialogue, and one or two people will shout, “I know them, they made wonderful stuff!” before returning to reviewing the new Game of Thrones episode. It’s disappointing because I believe there’s more to Studio Ghibli than meets the eye, especially as an introduction to anime.
With such impressive performances, Ghibli’s films are undeniably impressive. What, though, makes films like “Spirited Away” and “Howl’s Moving Castle” so enjoyable to watch? As someone who knows so little about movies outside of Ghibli’s animated territories, I’ve provided you with a few reasons why I think these films are as good as their reviews suggest.
The Characters
The characters in these films are all distinct and have their own quirks that make us fall in love with them and get attached to them as the story progresses. I never would have guessed Calcifer, a magical talking flame, would be one of my favorite characters before I saw “Howl’s Moving Castle.”
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The Worlds
These films’ worlds are extremely complex and informative, providing just the finest. They range from the fantastical setting of “Spirited Away,” which revolves around an illusory bathhouse, to the more believable setting of “The Wind Rises,” which depicts World War II-era Japan through the eyes of protagonist Jiro Horikoshi, an aspiring aircraft designer.
The Art
The art designs in these films don’t vary much, except that they get cleaner and crisper as time goes by. Ghibli films are hand drawn, which makes them a unique appeal to viewers who are used to CGI. The art has a friendlier, more laid-back feel to it.
The Music
Ghibli music scores, many of which were composed by Japanese composer Joe Hisaishi, provide audiences with something exquisite to listen to when viewing their favorite works of art on the projector. It aids in the films’ ability to leave a longer lasting impact.
The Stories
Ghibli films’ storylines are what hold audiences coming here. They share stories that both young and old can enjoy, and they convey values that we can both learn from. There is a film for everybody, whether it is the lighthearted “Kiki’s Delivery Service” or the bleak and tragic “Grave of the Fireflies.”