Studio Ghiblihas earned a name for itself by creating numerous unique anime films helmed by brilliantfilmmakers such as Hayao Miyazakiand Isao Takahata. The studio’s debut film (of sorts),Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, was a huge box office hit in 1984, but it was only the beginning of what Studio Ghibli would accomplish in the years to come.
With its distinctive hand-drawn animation style and mind-blowing fantastical settings, Studio Ghibli has created numerous timeless classics, includingSpirited Away, which won an Academy Award in 2001. WithThe Boy and the Heronsignifying that Hayao Miyazaki has handed the torch to the next generation, one might expect to see fewer of these kinds of anime films in the future. However,Netflixand Studio Ponoc have recently releasedThe Imaginary, a gem of a movie that measures up to Studio Ghibli’s best.
The Imaginary
Studio Ponoc’s The Imaginary portrays the depths of humanity and creativity through the eyes of young Amanda and her imaginary companion, Rudger. Their fantastical adventures launched from her attic, lead them to discover a magical world of creatures and places never before seen until a sinister force threatens to destroy their imaginary world and the friendship within it. Directed by renowned animator Yoshiyuki Momose (Spirited Away), The Imaginary is an unforgettable adventure of love, loss, and the healing power of imagination.
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The Film Features an Imaginary World Akin to Studio Ghibli’s Works
The majority of Studio Ghibli’s productions are built on the idea of an imaginary or fantasy worldin which everything is feasible, such as the existence of mythical woodland spirits or an abandoned amusement park inhabited by supernatural beings.The Imaginary, based on A.F. Harold’s 2014 novel of the same name, has a similar premise and follows a boy named Rudger, who frequently finds himself adventuring with fantastical creatures like giants and yetis. However, he is only visible to Amanda since he is an imaginary companion who helps her in seeking solace after her father’s tragic death.
Amanda’s plea for peace is soon disrupted when Mr. Bunting, a mysterious man who hunts down imaginary friends, enters her life. With Rudger’s imagination taking over Amanda’s, their secret world is jeopardized, and it is up to Amanda to save everything she values, even if it is not real. While the film seems verysimilar to John Krasinki’sIF, with both exploring the concept of using imagination to deal with grief and childhood trauma,The Imaginaryis the closest when it comes to Studio Ghibli’s stories.
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The renowned studio boasts many appealing qualities, including unique animation, hand-drawn artwork, and phenomenal storytelling. However, what viewers find most intriguing are the settings they are introduced to, which is precisely what Netflix’sThe Imaginaryexcelled at. Despite lacking the emotional depth (except for Amanda’s relationship with her mother, Elizabeth) that almost every acclaimed Studio Ghibli film demonstrates,the anime film is a well-written and animated narrative about the power of a child’s imagination.
In addition to appealing to bothkids and adults, the film has some scary moments, especially in the form of Mr. Bunting, who tracks down imaginary friends. Overall, the world established withinThe Imaginaryhas a lot to offer viewers, especially with its mesmerizing animation that makes your jaw drop.
The Imaginary Is Aesthetically Pleasing
Studio Ponoc, the Japanese animation studio founded by longtime Studio Ghibli producer Yoshiaki Nishimura, has released a new anime film with stunning animation that rivals some of the parent company’s best works.The Imaginaryis directed by Yoshiyuki Momose, a Ghibli alum who previously worked as a key animator on the filmsSpirited AwayandThe Tale of Princess Kaguya, two ofthe finest works by Studio Ghibli.
While Nishimura’s intentions for Studio Ponoc were evident throughout the film, Momose’s efforts to createThe Imaginarywere just as commendable.The film was masterfully brought to life with lush hand-drawn illustrationsthat flawlessly reflect Amanda’s dreamy, fantasy world. Viewers find character designs aesthetically pleasing, as the texture of each design is reminiscent of that of a water painting.
Furthermore, the background animation breathes life into the series with glistening imagery that is both visually appealing and contextual to the narrative. This is not the first time Studio Ponoc has created something like this since the studio has produced stunning works such asMary and the Witch’s Flower. However, aside from the magical world ofThe Imaginary, it somehow feels like a step forward, both in terms of animation quality and storytelling.Fans of visually exquisite stories, similar to those found in Studio Ghibli’s films, are sure to appreciateThe Imaginaryjust as much, if not more than they expected.
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The amount of work put into telling the tale is truly remarkable. Especially with engaging supporting characters like Emily, Snowflake, and Fridge, who make it much more entertaining for both children and adults alike. Hopefully, Netflix and Studio Ponoc will continue to produce similar projects in the future, allowing viewers to appreciate more visual wonders.The Imaginaryis available for streaming onNetflix.
