Filmhuis Den Haag presents: The Wondrous World of Studio Ghibli
Screening from October 3rd onwards, only at Filmhuis Den Haag
Studio Ghibli is a renowned Japanese animation studio founded in 1985 by directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, along with producer Toshio Suzuki. The studio is celebrated for its beautifully crafted films that blend imaginative storytelling, compelling characters, and stunning hand-drawn animation. Some of its most iconic works include My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Princess Mononoke. Ghibli's films are beloved worldwide for their emotional depth and universal themes, appealing to audiences of all ages.
We kick off The Wondrous World of Studio Ghibli with a lecture by Rudi de Boer on October 5th before the screening of My Neighbor Totoro.
Prior to the screening of The Red Turtle, you will have the unique opportunity to see a special video message from director Michael Dudok de Wit.
Film Educator Frank Schakel about Studio Ghibli
"While anime is often considered a genre in itself, Ghibli sets itself apart with its unique style. Their films are detailed, colorful, and mostly hand-drawn, which gives them a unique, almost surreal quality. Ghibli films appeal to both young and old with their beautiful, vibrant visuals, adventurous stories, and often young, relatable protagonists. The characters are also deep and layered, often facing and overcoming their own fears, whether set against the backdrop of World War II or in a giant, magical moving castle.
Ghibli is best known for the film Spirited Away, which won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2002. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, one of Studio Ghibli's founders, Miyazaki is often considered the driving force behind Ghibli, with an impressive twelve films to his name. Despite repeatedly announcing his retirement, he continues to create, even at 83 years old. His latest masterpiece, The Boy and the Heron, was released last year after a 10-year hiatus, earning him his second Oscar. Along with Spirited Away, these are the only 2D, hand-drawn animated films to ever win an Oscar.
There's even a Dutch connection to Studio Ghibli! The Red Turtle, the odd one out among Ghibli films, was directed by Dutch filmmaker Michaël Dudok de Wit. The animation and story have a more Western feel but are by no means inferior to other Ghibli films!
Ghibli is the perfect counterargument to the claim that animation is only for children and not a legitimate film genre. This is your chance to admire these stunning films on the big screen!"
Films in this program
Arrietty (2010)
In a world of miniature people living secretly among humans, a tiny girl forms a risky friendship with a human boy.
Castle in the Sky (1986)
After discovering a magical crystal, a girl and a boy embark on a thrilling quest to find a legendary floating castle.
Howl's Moving Castle (2004)
Cursed into an old woman’s body, a young woman seeks out a mysterious wizard with a magical moving castle to break her spell.
Kiki's Delivery Service (1989)
A young witch starts a flying courier business to prove herself, learning about independence and self-discovery along the way.
My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
Two sisters moving to the countryside encounter a large, gentle forest spirit named Totoro, who becomes their magical friend.
Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984)
In a post-apocalyptic world, a brave princess strives to protect her valley from environmental collapse and ongoing war.
Ponyo (2008)
A goldfish princess longs to be human after befriending a boy, setting off a magical transformation that threatens to disrupt the natural order.
Porco Rosso (1992)
Transformed into a pig, a skilled pilot battles aerial pirates and seeks personal redemption while navigating the skies.
Princess Mononoke (1997)
Caught in a struggle between humans and nature deities, a young warrior must find a way to restore harmony with the help of the enigmatic Princess Mononoke.
Spirited Away (2001)
Trapped in a magical bathhouse, a young girl must navigate a fantastical world to rescue her parents and find her way back home.
Tales from Earthsea (2006)
On a quest to restore balance, a young prince and a sorcerer's apprentice confront dark forces threatening their world.
The Boy and the Heron (2023)
A boy dealing with grief forms an unexpected bond with a mysterious heron in a fantastical realm, leading to a profound personal journey.
The Cat Returns (2002)
After rescuing a cat, a girl is transported to the Cat Kingdom and must navigate its whimsical world to find her way back home.
The Red Turtle (2016)
Stranded on a deserted island, a man’s life changes dramatically when he encounters a mystical red turtle, leading to a profound exploration of existence and connection.