Tales From Earthsea

This movie was brutally disrespected. People expected Goro Miyazaki to have the same style as his master animator father, Hayao Miyazaki, when really he had a style of his own (this would later be confirmed in From Up on Poppy Hill). What is this style? One of simplicity. This film may not have boasted the elegant feel of most Ghibli films, but it didn’t need it. What it boasted instead was the beauty of a legend, or the simplicity of an old fairy tale: I guess people were expecting a movie they weren’t going to get.

In the film, we follow the young Prince Arren and his exploits after killing his father (the king) as he faces his own morality and guilt.

The film had a good moral and heart. A lot of people complained about this movie being confusing, which I did not find was the case. There were some unexplained events and confusing occurrences, but things eventually settled. I watched the Japanese dub, but I doubt that made a major difference. I suggest you watch it with an open mind… you’ll be surprised.

 

RATING: 7/10

★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Best of Studio Ghibli

The Best Animation Studio… Ever

This has been an ongoing debate for some time now. I’m going to count down on my favorites. Please note that I said MY favorites; I don’t mean to offend anyone, these are just the ones that I feel are the best. I had to put a lot of thought into this list, but I feel the listings are correct. I’ve seen almost all Ghibli films, but this list may change once I watch the remaining films.

 

Honorable Mention

Howl’s Moving Castle

This often overlooked pick really delivers as a visual treat. I haven’t seen it in forever, but it has still left a lasting impression on me. The plot is pretty funky, but in the end steampunk anime saves the day.

The film follows a young woman who is cursed to look like an old woman by the Witch of the Waste. The only way she can redeem her curse is by seeking help from Howl, the wizard, on his walking fortress.

The film has it’s confusing moments, but in the end the character development lives up to the standard you would expect and the creativity is off the charts.