From next month, Netflix will show 21 feature films from Studio Ghibli in the UK for the first time. What better time to sample some of the best animation, along with accompanying scores, the world has to offer.
With Netflix’s acquisition, the movies will also be available to watch across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and the Americas. Previously, Studio Ghibli had declined to offer digital versions of its content in any capacity. However in the US recently, Ghibli made downloadable copies available for sale.
The movies will be subtitled in 28 languages as well as producing new dubs, which will no doubt be the main source of scrutiny. The first wave of releases drop on February 1st. That means greats such as Castle in the Sky, My Neighbor Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service and Porco Rosso will reach Netflix UK’s estimated 9.5 million subscribers.
Further to that, on March 1st, more classics will be added, including Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, Princess Mononoke, and personal favourite Spirited Away. And again, on April 1st, Whisper of the Heart, Howl’s Moving Castle, Ponyo, The Wind Rises, and others, also drop. That’s no April fool. What a time to be alive.
Fans of Grave of the Fireflies will despair however, with publishing rights currently residing away from Studio Ghibli. But that is nevertheless only a minor downer in contrast to the quality on the way. For me, I’m very much looking forward to educating my 7 year old daughter on Ghibli’s gorgeous, glorious greatness.
Full list of what to expect and when :-
February 1st
Castle In The Sky
My Neighbour Totoro
Kiki’s Delivery Service
Only Yesterday
Porco Rosso
Ocean Waves
Tales From Earthsea
March 1st
Nausicaa Of The Valley Of The Wind
Princess Mononoke
My Neighbours The Yamadas
Spirited Away
The Cat Returns
Arrietty
The Tale Of The Princess Kaguya
April 1st
Pom Poko
Whisper Of The Heart
Howl’s Moving Castle
Ponyo
From Up On Poppy Hill
The Wind Rises
When Marnie Was There
Which Studio Ghibli movie is your favourite? Which will you watch first?
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