So, remember when I wrote about liking starting…but never started? (here) Well, let’s start now. And let’s start with why I like Studio Ghibli.
First of all, what is Studio Ghibli? It’s a Japanese animation studio, responsible for such films as Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, and Howl’s Moving Castle, created by Hayao Miyazaki, Toshio Suzuki, and Isao Takahata. And that’s all the back story you’re getting from me; check out the Wikipedia or something.
Honestly, I don’t remember when I first was introduced to Studio Ghibli. I don’t know which movie I saw first, though I believe it was Kiki’s Delivery Service because I have a vague recollection of seeing that as a child. It’s almost like I was born into knowing about this studio’s work. Anyway, I have been a fan for quite a while. You should’ve seen the inner celebration I had when The Secret World of Arriety came out. And I’m on a tangent. Here are the reasons I like Studio Ghibli:
Reason 1: the animation. There’s something magical about animation. People took time to apply their talent to create 1/24 of a second of a two hour movie. They drew beautiful scenery, sparkling moments, and characters of all different shapes and sizes without regurgitating the same face like some other animes. Anyway, the art was beautiful. Doesn’t matter which movie, it’s beautiful.
Reason 2: the stories. Some are original, some are based on books or stories, one was even based on a real person. But all of the movies had great stories with good and kind messages. And they’re for all kinds of people! Want a movie for children? Ponyo, a new telling of The Little Mermaid. Want some violence and blood? Princess Mononoke (holy shit, so much blood). Want to cry and feel all the sad feelings? Grave of the Fireflies. Want romance and/or history? The Wind Rises. The point is, there is something for everyone, story-wise.
Reason 3: the characters. The best male characters, the best female characters, the best sidekicks, the best villains. Everyone was gold. But what I particularly like is the strength. Particularly the girls. They are perceived as strong, their own heroes, intelligent, and able to solve the problems. They emphasize personal strength and self-worth. These characters are important in media to serve as a model for young girls (or people like me who harness self-hate at the power of the sun). Every character, including the sidekick and villain, was so well-rounded. So, I love the characters.
Reason 4: the messages. I guess this can go with the stories reason, but seriously, I love Studio Ghibli’s messages and themes. Themes included things like take care of nature, trust your heart, responsibility and respect, stand up for yourself, don’t pollute, and love yourself. Not only is this studio giving us realistic characters but they’re giving us unproblematic messages.
There’s many more reasons, and these four are generalized on their own. But it provides the overall notion of my love for Studio Ghibli.
And now you have more of an inkling of how nerdy I am.
Hugs
Alexandra
Alexandra TG 