Among anime fans, no director is as beloved and popular as Hayao Miyazaki, known for his stunning and inspiring work on mostStudio Ghiblifilms. From Chihiro’s fantastical journey through the spirit world to the most recentaward-winning project,The Boy and the Heron, this prominent artist’s work is recognized worldwide for being unique and memorable.
Fans of the magic and charm of Miyazaki’s film catalog could truly enjoy another movie created by former Ghibli employees, considered by fans as a spiritual successor to the director:Mary and the Witch’s Flower. This colorful and whimsical adventure could be the beginning of a new era of anime movies.
Mary and the Witch’s Flower Will Enchant All Fans
A Simple Yet Moving Story
Mary and the Witch’s Floweris a magical movie created by Studio Ponoc, a company founded by former Ghibli employees who wished to create their legacy. The film was directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi, famous for his work on several of thebest and most popular anime movies in Ghibli history, likePrincess Mononokeand his ownThe Secret World of Arrietty.
This adventure follows the story of the titular Mary, a girl who recently moved to a new house in a remote and secluded location. While exploring the property with Peter, her neighbor, she discovers stunning flowers growing nearby. The girl soon learns that these plants are said to be coveted by witches for their powers.
After accidentally making the powder from one of the bulbs awaken an ancient broom, Mary is taken to Endor College, a secret school where witches learn how to harness magic. The protagonist will find herself facing the dangers of magic and the greed of humanity, coming to terms with who she is and what she wants to become.
The Film Captures the Magic of Ghibli’s Style
Mary’s Adventure Is Surreal and Awe-Inspiring
Thanks to the years of experience that Studio Ponoc’s artists had working with Ghibli,Mary and the Witch’s Floweris a unique experience that will invoke the same sense of wonder that Miyazaki’s films do. The story is rooted in magic and fantasy, without neglecting the realism that makes these movies so beloved.
Mary and the Witch’s Flower plays with the concept of childhood wonder, utilizing vibrant colors, dream-like locations, and magic to create a world any viewer would be happy to explore.
The movie plays with the concept of childhood wonder, utilizing vibrant colors, dream-like locations, and magic to create a world any viewer would be happy to explore. Yet, behind the friendly surface, hides a deep story about learning to accept oneself and finding a place to belong. It is one of the most thought-provoking films released in recent years.
The Film Is Not a Perfect Masterpiece
Mary’s Story Has Some Minor Issues
Mary and the Witch’s Floweris undoubtedly an amazing film that any anime fan will enjoy watching, as proven by its major success on Netflix and the impressive score it has earned on Rotten Tomatoes. Nonetheless, the film still struggles in various respects, such as its art style. The characters and locations look almost identical to Ghibli’s.
Even though this is understandable, seeing as most of the artists worked on many ofMiyazaki’s best movies, this takes away from the film’s identity. Its message, while significant, can also be easy to miss, as it is far more subtle than other similar movies.Mary and the Witch’s Floweris an incredible experience, but it still cannot compare to Ghibli’s best movies.
