WHAT: In my unstudied opinion this was Miyazaki's first film in which he had all the resources (financial, autonomous, and creative) available to make a truly mature and cinematic animated film. When I say mature I don't mean 'for adults' of course; kids in every age group, from grammar school to retirement are able to connect with Castle in the Sky. But compared to Castle of Cagliostro, where he doesn't seem 110% interested in somebody else's material, and to Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, which is a tremendous achievement and undoubtedly his (as it was based on a manga he created), but occasionally feels constrained by the animation medium, here he feels absolutely comfortable and in control with every sequence. Want more? I tweeted and podcasted (with Studio Ghibli-philes Adam Hartzell and Seiko Takada) after seeing it last fall.
WHERE/WHEN: At the Camera 3 in San Jose, only at 6:30 PM today and 8:50 PM tomorrow.
WHY: When there are prints of Studio Ghibli films in your town, you go. If you live in the South Bay you have no excuse not to attend this film and as much of the rest of this Miyazaki series as you can. Other titles with remaining screenings include Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, My Neighbor Totoro, and Spirited Away. Yes these are the English-dubbed versions but don't let that hold you back from a visual experience you won't regret.
HOW: 35mm print.
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This is the first Hayao Miyazaki film I've ever seen. I bought the VHS when I was 8, and I fell so in love with it that I rewatched it for 3 straight nights. Still my favourite.
ReplyDeleteIt's just wonderful. Not surprised it could appeal to an 8-year-old and an adult.
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