Kiki's Delivery Service (1989) Dir: Hayao Miyazaki
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Much like a lot of people, the films of Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli hold a very special place in my heart. I grew up on some of their classic films, and have loved them my whole life. However, for whatever reason, it had been a little while since I had endeavoured to rewatch some of them - this 1989 classic included.
It almost goes without saying, but the film is gorgeously animated. Studio Ghibli always create such stunning and vibrant environments for their stories, be they set in urban or rural landscapes. Furthermore, the film has a lovely soundtrack, which serves to further the film's lighthearted, wholesome and adventurous feel.
I love the narrative of this film; it combines so many classic themes - adventure, self discovery, young love, friendship, dealing with change, maturity, and more. For me, it is such a quintessential coming-of-age film, with so many wonderful moments, that every young person should watch. A lot of the film's story and messaging still holds more than true today as well, which only helps its cause.
As is always the case when I watch Studio Ghibli films, I watched this with the English audio dubbing, which was actually recorded in 1997. Kirsten Dunst gives plenty of heart to the film's titular young witch, and encapsulates so much of the spirit and determination of the role. Dunst suited the role so well, and her execution was marvellous.
The supporting cast are all value for money as well, with my favourite voice acting performances coming from Phil Hartman, Janeane Garofalo, and Tress MacNeille. They each bring so much personality to their respective roles, particularly Hartman, who is hilarious. I also think Matthew Lawrence and Edie McClurg are very much worth mentioning for their entertaining vocal displays.
Overall, this is one of my favourite comfort films, and one of my favourite Ghibli films too. It's so sweet and so nostalgic for me - it feels like a safe place to go and be cosy and warm. There's a sentimentality for youth that I'm appreciating more and more as I venture through adulthood, and I'm sure I will only value this film more as I continue to age.
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