A love letter to Studio Ghibli
As a child, I used to love rainy days. My grandmother always made hot chocolate for my sister and me, and we stayed the whole day in pajamas and watched “My Neighbour Totoro”, “Spirited Away” or “Castle in the Sky”. I remember that these movies were some of the few that could keep our attention for the whole span of the movie. Teleporting us to a world very similar to our own but at the same time filled with magic. Even back then, I felt a strange sense of nostalgia while watching these movies. And I know I am not the only one that feels this way.
Studio Ghibli movies hold a special place in the hearts of audiences worldwide because they evoke an extraordinary feeling of belonging in us that is otherwise hard to find in today’s fast-paced environment.
From the soulful worlds and complex characters to the simple but often confusing storyline and timeless themes, Ghibli movies resonate deeply with people from all walks of life, awakening a collective longing for simplicity and peace.
The director of the movies, Hayao Miyazaki, a somewhat cynical man in most interviews, is known for his ability to create immersive and visually stunning worlds that feel like stepping into a vivid dream. Whether it’s the lush, dark green forests of “Princess Mononoke,” the colorful streets of “Spirited Away,” or the cottagecore countryside of “My Neighbor Totoro,” Ghibli films invite viewers to lose themselves in enchanting landscapes filled with beauty and wonder.
At the heart of every Ghibli movie are characters that resonate regardless of age and gender. There are various characters, each with struggles that most people can relate to. Ranging from brave heroines and innocent toddlers to young people struggling to find their way in life or cursed teenagers, Ghibli characters could be called imperfect. However, they still display remarkable depth and humanity. Through their journey of self-discovery and growth, viewers can find parts of their own life experiences and emotions and, therefore, connect with the characters on a deep emotional level.
Now, turning away from the characters and beautiful scenery of these movies, another unique thing about them is their sometimes illogical and fantastic nature of storytelling. There is a certain way to tell a story in the movie industry, especially when it comes to children’s movies. However, Studio Ghibli and Hayao Miyazaki do not follow these guidelines. Throughout the years, the Oscar winner for Best Animated Movie of the Year has emphasized how he makes the plot of this movie based on what feels right instead of what would make sense the most. Miyazaki also does not shy away from exploring nuanced moral dilemmas, such as the question of whether true villains exist, as he did, for example, in “Princess Mononoke” in 1997. Miyazaki is a loud advocate against making animation films that are “easy to understand” for children, saying that children are much smarter than adults give them credit for.
Nevertheless, the complex characters and reflections of the hardships and complexities of the human experience, as shown in Ghibli films, are not the only thing that makes them so remarkable and wholesome for their audience.
Charming musical scores and soundtracks play a crucial role in evoking a sense of emotional resonance. Composed by the well-known Joe Hisaishi, Ghibli soundtracks are characterized by their mix of traditional Japanese music with classical European orchestra, haunting melodies and seamless integration with visual storytelling through the addition of the sound of nature or animals, enhancing the emotional impact of each scene and leaving a lasting impression on viewers once the movie is finished.
I know that these movies have a place in the hearts of many people worldwide and offer a comforting refuge in a world filled with chaos and uncertainty. During such times, Studio Ghibli reminds us of the simple joys in life and timeless truths that define our human experience on this earth. Thus, if I could give readers just one piece of advice, it would be to enjoy the small things in life, such as a beautiful tulip on the side of the road, a good hot chocolate on a rainy day and a good Ghibli Movie.