Disney and Pixar are widely known for pushing theatrical animation to new heights, but they aren’t the only masters of the medium. For over 30 years, Japan’s Studio Ghibli has released several timeless animated films by industry legends Hayao Miyazaki (read our series Miyazaki Masterclass), Isao Takahata (and Takahata Textbook), and other directors (and Ghibli Bits) that have maintained a traditional two-dimensional style. Studio Ghibli’s films aren’t just visually stunning, they’re also complex and thought-provoking in a way that most animated studios wouldn’t even dare to attempt. Now, a new supercut is tracking the progression of Studio Ghibli’s films, and serving as a reminder of just how beautiful an animated movie can be.
The Evolution of Studio Ghibli supercut was put together by Burger Fiction, and it takes a few small liberties with the history lesson. For example, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind is included even though it wasn’t actually Studio Ghibli film. But that movie also brought together many of the studio’s key players and it is rightfully regarded as one of the best animated films of all-time. Ocean Waves is also included even though it was not a theatrically released movie. But it is a little annoying that many of the clips are taken from the English language dubs, as opposed to the original Japanese language tracks.
It’s also worth noting when Studio Ghibli takes chances with its approach and completely changes its style, as it did for My Neighbors The Yamadas and The Tale of the Princess Kaguya. Grave of the Fireflies has a much more somber and depressing tone than the rest of the films, which is understandable given the absolutely heartbreaking story. But My Neighbor Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service, and Spirited Away never fail to get a collective smile from us!
What’s your favorite Studio Ghibli film? Let us know in the comment section below!
Images: Studio Ghibli
All Aboard the Catbus!
- Every studio Ghibli movie is getting a Blu-ray/DVD re-release.
- Ghibli Bits: a review for every film.
- The Legend of Zelda + Studio Ghibli just works.
