5 Studio Ghibli Films With a Style All Their Own

There’s a lot that can be done with animation. Studio Ghibli has helped to test those possibilities from inception. A great story is essential, but how it’s told visually can make or break its impact. So for my last entry for the 12 Days of Anime. I want to talk about 5 Studio Ghiblis Films with style all their own.

Peep the prowless.

The Tale of Princess Kaguya

This movie is stunning. The use of watercolor, the apparent influence of traditional Japanese art, made for a distinct and memorable film.  Because of how different it looks in comparison to other films, it’s recognizable even by people who have never seen it. It’s one of those things where when you know you know.

Only Yesterday

Only Yesterday is the quintessential Ghibli film, from the story all the way down to the look.  This movie is nearly 30 years old and looks so good.  Visually one of the things that really make this movie stand is the random 1950’s esque backdrops that are included during the flashback but also the quirky character’s expressions.  For example,  Taeko smiles. It really sicks with you.

My Neighbors the Yamadas

My Neighbors the Yamadas is best described as a drawn-out comic book.  It also has the whole scribble effect, which adds onto the charm. I‘ve never seen another movie animated in the manner, but it’s different and enhances the story without distracting from it. 

The Wind Rises

The Wind Rises is a beautiful piece of work.  The way they utilize wind, which is a theme of the movie really takes on a life of its owns.  The transcluded colors.  The blending. And even in the moments when we get pictures within a picture.  How subtle and fleeting those moments felt.  It was unreal.

Ponyo

Ponyo,  what do I say about Ponyo. It was an adorable film. It felt and was very vibrant.  Youthful like you’d expect a child’s film to be.  These make this movie special, amongst other things, but also how this movie reimages things.  Like how water moves.  The way fish look. Even how space and time interact. While Ponyo,  isn’t my favorite film, I’ll give roses were there due.

 There you have it. 5 Studio Ghiblis Films with a Style All Their Own.

What Ghibli film do you feel deserves this title?

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