Top 10 Things Only Adults Notice in Studio Ghibli Movies
#10: References to U.K. Politics “Castle in the Sky” (1986)
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In 1984, critically acclaimed director Hayao Miyazaki went to Wales. He found his experience to be particularly impactful, later using Welsh architecture and aesthetics as influences for his 1986 adventure film, “Castle in the Sky.” You may not have realized that the mining town in this animated feature was also inspired by European politics of the time. Beginning in 1984, miners all across the U.K. fought their government in a bid to keep collieries open. The strength of the men touched Miyazaki, who attributed their resilient qualities to the miners in his own film. Indeed, the characters in “Castle in the Sky” are not afraid to fight for what – or who – they love.
#9: Themes of Pacifism “Howl’s Moving Castle” (2004)
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In response to the US’ decision to invade Iraq, Hayao Miyazaki decided to create a movie America wouldn’t embrace. Funnily enough, “Howl’s Moving Castle” ended up earning an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature. Its romantic and whimsical nature has been enchanting us since we were young. But when revisiting the film as an adult, it’s the messages on the pointlessness of war that stand out. While anti-violence is a common theme in Studio Ghibli productions, “Howl’s” lack of subtlety makes it particularly brutal. The effects of war dehumanize the titular character, causing him to transform into a monstrous creature in danger of losing himself. But compassion and love win in the end, warming our hearts and leaving us with a pacifistic message.
#8: When Creation Turns to Destruction “The Wind Rises” (2013)
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“The Wind Rises” is a work of fiction, but it draws on the story of the real-life Jiro Horikoshi. Horikoshi was the designer behind various Japanese war planes. Though he wasn’t a fan of the Second World War, his creations were utilized in battles that brought much death and destruction. Given this heavy and complex context, Hayao Miyazaki was hesitant to adapt the story into a kids’ movie. But he was convinced by a Ghibli worker that it might be beneficial to do just that. Granted, younger audiences may not fully understand themes of creation at the expense of destruction or the corruption of imagination. But adults watching will surely feel the burden that was born from Jiro’s aeronautical love.
#7: Chihiro’s Parents Are Literally & Figuratively Pigs “Spirited Away” (2001)
Hayao Miyazaki’s masterpiece,“Spirited Away,” is one of the most iconic and beloved animated films of all time. Though it’s ultimately a coming of age story, adults may notice the exploration of westernization through Yubaba’s aesthetic and capitalistic ethics. Additionally, older audiences might pick up on references to Japan’s bubble economy of the ‘80s that ultimately had long-lasting negative effects. Though the comments seem incidental at first, Chihiro’s parents later embody the characteristics that led to the country’s economic collapse in the first place. The two indulge in food that does not belong to them, disregarding the impact of their actions. In one of the film’s most memorable scenes, their greediness leads to them becoming pigs, both physically and figuratively.
#6: Tombo’s Brush with Death “Kiki's Delivery Service” (1989)
This 1989 flick is often remembered for its playful tone and heartwarming coming of age story. Young witch Kiki must try to regain her powers, and her self-confidence, and for the majority of the run time, that’s the most high-stakes plot point. However, things get darker when her love interest, Tombo, gets embroiled in an airborne disaster and ends up fighting for his life. Older audiences may notice how the visuals and commentary here echo that of the 1937 Hindenburg disaster. Regardless, rewatching Tombo hanging mid-air, with just a rope to hold onto while Kiki struggles to help him reinforces how horrifying the situation was. The results are some of the most tense moments we’ve seen in a Studio Ghibli film.
#5: What Could Have Been… “When Marnie Was There” (2014)
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“When Marnie Was There” is a psychological drama that follows Anna Sasaki (Sa-sa-KEE)
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, a young girl who unknowingly befriends the spirit of her deceased grandmother. The film delves into the complexities of familial relationships and how they can affect individuals through feelings of abandonment or belonging. This is all heightened by Anna’s struggle as a foster child. While the goal was to make kids grappling with similar feelings feel seen, watching the movie as an adult might send you into an existential spiral. The story sheds light on the what ifs of loved ones you may never know and possibilities that may never be. It’s a deep notion that evokes feelings of unattainable yearning.
#4: Humanity Must Learn “Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind” (1984)
When a movie is set in a post-apocalyptic world where civilization as we know it and most of the Earth’s ecosystem has been destroyed, you know it’s going to get serious. In “Nausicaä,” the Tolmekia Kingdom attempts to raise a humanoid bio-weapon to destroy what the war has left behind - huge mutated critters. However, their plans are foiled by a humane and compassionate girl who advocates for humans and insects to live in harmony. Otherwise, there will only be more death and destruction, like before. Through her love and understanding, a message grown up audiences can take to heart forms. We must learn from the past in order to avoid making the same mistakes in the future.
#3: A Symbol of Rebirth “My Neighbor Totoro” (1988)
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Since its release, “My Neighbor Totoro” has become one of the most recognizable animated features from Studio Ghibli. The story itself deviates from typical tropes used in children’s movies, lacking a singular conflict or villain in favor of more situational analyses. One particular moment gives pause to these joyous tones, however. One night, Mei and Satsuki see Totoro and other forest spirits performing a ceremonial dance as a giant tree blooms from the ground. The animation of the tree resembles that of the mushroom clouds that caused so much damage in Nagasaki and Hiroshima. Taking an image that would normally evoke pain and transforming it to represent new life creates a melancholic, poignant moment.
#2: The Consequences of War “Grave of the Fireflies” (1988)
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As we’ve mentioned, Studio Ghibli films generally advocate for love and compassion, imparting anti-war messages. And though the director of “Grave of the Fireflies” has denied the film having such commentary, it’s hard not to see some. The two main characters become orphans after a tragedy in World War II, and go on to endure unimaginable struggles. Though they are not directly involved in the war, they are forced to deal with the consequences brought upon them by older generations. It’s certainly not fair and, in the end, makes for one of the most heartbreaking and impactful stories out there. While the subject matter is a bit heavy for children, grown-ups may have a harder time coping with these themes.
#1: Eternal Foes “Princess Mononoke” (1997)
“Princess Mononoke” is perhaps Studio Ghibli’s most forthright film when it comes to environmentalism. It highlights the eternal struggle between human civilization and nature in complex ways, especially for a children’s movie. The target audience may not fully grasp the nuances in the exploration of good and evil when it comes to our environment. But adults can surely appreciate Hayao Miyazaki’s storytelling. Rather than adhering to black and white narrative, “Princess Mononoke” paints its characters and plot in colors of gray. We understand Lady Eboshi’s desire to protect her town, but her actions have devastating consequences. In the end, the film serves as a warning that humanity and nature have a delicate relationship and must learn to live in harmony.
