Considering all the tropes, genres, and styles The Simpsons have skewered over the years, it was only a matter of time before they set their sights on Japan’s most beloved animation house, Studio Ghibli. This specialized Hayao Miyazaki tribute takes us on a whirlwind tour through Studio Ghibli’s ouevre, but with a decidedly Springfieldian twist. From Howl’s Moving Kwik-e-Mart (“I am ruined by whimsy!”) to Otto as the Catbus to Patty and Selma doing their best Kiki’s Delivery Service impression to the sweet strains of Joe Hisaishi-esque music, there’s everything a Studio Ghibli-and-Simpsons fan could want. Except for the giant scrotums and Jonathan Taylor Thomas’ voice from Pom Poko. Ain’t nobody that needs more of that.
What do you think? Which is your favorite Ghibli reference? Let us know in the comments below!
Pom Poko probably wouldn’t have showed up anyway; although it is a Ghibli film, it was not directed by Miyazaki.
The Kodama from Princess Mononoke was definitely my favorite reference. Although Howl’s Moving Kwik-E-Mart was pretty amazing.
Spirited Away. Always Spirited Away.
This makes the anime fan in me smile. 🙂
Loved the Ponyo and Porco double reference early on! OMG this is amazing!