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Friday, July 1, 2016

July 2016 is Ghibli Month - A Message from LofZOdyssey


July 2016 is Ghibli Month


Hello everyone and welcome.

From July 1 until July 29, we'll be celebrating everything Studio Ghibli. That’s twenty-two films from one of the world’s most prestigious and beloved movie studios. What does that entail exactly?

Well my dear readers, that means a Ghibli film review every single day for the next three weeks solid. We will cover every full length feature produced by the legendary studio, and little bit extra. From the 1980s all the way to today, that’s a 30 year history ahead of us.

Over the next month, join me as we take a look at some of cinema’s greatest storyteller’s greatest works.

From director Isao Takahata we're given tales ground into reality. Relying on powerful emotions such as independence, tragedy, and general silliness, Mr. Takahata’s works draw you into worlds of great challenge. The hardships of a devastating war, the peaceful tranquility of country life, the unshakable bonds of family, these are all pillars of his castle.

From legendary composer Joe Hisaishi, get ready for some the best, most power scores ever to be heard on the big screen. Faced paced action, grand feats whimsy, and soft rests of tranquility, Mr. Hisaishi's style is unmistakable. Those edge of your seat thrills, the feel of your smile, that pain in your heart, it is all attributed to this music.

And then there’s the visionary himself, the one and only Hayao Miyazaki. His name is synonymous with imagination. He alone has created some of the most enduring and recognizable stories and characters in existence; rivaling all the great animation giants including Walt Disney himself. A post-apocalyptic world, the ancient remains of an advanced civilization, the fierce battle between nature and progress, a bizarre glimpse into the spirit world, and of course the sleepy home of gentle forest guardian; all from the mind of a single man.

All that plus a handful of other skilled movie makers.

I'm ecstatic to get started. However, there's one thing I need to mention.   

Upon hearing the words Studio Ghibli, I imagine most of us immediately think of one thing; breathtaking artwork. Absolutely we think this, how can we not. There’s no getting around it, every frame, every scene, every second of every film this month is nothing short of a masterpiece. Bright vivid colors, elegant atmospheric lighting, swift motion filled with life and energy. Even at its lowest, this is a constant.

Therefore, I’m giving myself one rule. In order to prevent me from repeating the same things this entire month, I will not be mentioning the animation or art style from here on out. I will solely be looking at stories, characters, music, and themes. Even though I say that, we’ll see how long it takes before I find excuses to bend this rule a little.

I hope you’re ready, because I couldn't be any more. We start off Ghibli Month tomorrow with 1984’s NausicaƤ of the Valley of the Wind.

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