From time to time in conversation with people regarding films I mention Studio Ghibli and invariably I receive blank looks. Astonishingly many people have never heard of this Japanese animation studio, and claim not to know any of their best work. John Lasseter of Pixar is a fan, and Pixar do the english dubs. Walt Disney is the international distributor for their films. Studio Ghibli films have won many awards.

I strongly recommend that you buy a few of these. Prices are good and unlike many films you might well watch them many times. Both adults and children like them, and sometimes they see different things.  Having said that certain films need approaching with care.

Six films I unreservedly recommend are Howl’s Moving Castle, Porco Rosso, Ponyo, Nausicaa, Castle In The Sky, and Spirited Away. Te cover art for these titles is below:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You might wish take care with Grave Of The Fireflies which is widely regarded as the most poignant anti war film bar none. It is beautifully drawn but will most likely distress you, the more so when you know it is based on fact.

Incidentally My Neighbour Totoro is regarded by Time Out magazine as the best animated film in their Top 50 list. To my mind it is best suited to young children. Totoro the forest spirit is the logo of Studio Ghibli.

Studio Ghibli DVD’s for your delectation