Studio Ghibli Movies – Letter of Recommendation

Studio Ghibli, one of the most renowned Japanese animation companies, doesn’t just create animated stories, but worlds of harmony carved out in detail. From the countryside in My Neighbor Totoro to the forests in Grave of the Fireflies, Ghibli perfectly balances fantasy and reality, something only few studios have been able to pull off. “Studio Ghibli holds a special place in my heart, I grew up watching the movies,” said Junior Ava Hobson. For fans like Hobson, the world’s in these movies come to feel like a second home.

Studio Ghibli tucks profound themes into comforting settings, creating worlds that feel almost as real as our own. The studio’s co-founder and director, Hayao Miyazaki has taken research trips to Japanese forests to inspire Totoro and visited mining towns for Castle in the Sky. This research adds depth and realism to Ghibli’s films, even in places that don’t actually exist, saturating them with real-world detail.

Ghibli’s films transcend generations through the use of universal subjects such as courage, loss, and respect for nature. While most studios keep the narratives rather light for their younger audiences, Miyazaki isn’t afraid to use hard topics in stories. In Grave of the Fireflies, two siblings struggle to survive World War II. However, Ghibli is also known for light, hopeful films like Totoro and Ponyo that remind one of the beauty to be found in the moments of life.

One of Studio Ghibli’s most powerful films, Princess Mononoke, a personal favorite of mine, explores human ambition and nature. The story centers on conflicts driven by humanity’s intrusion upon the natural world, a relevant theme today. Through such portrayals, it invites viewers to reflect on values and choices, maintaining Ghibli’s tradition of storytelling.

Overall, Studio Ghibli’s unforgettable films capture universal truth within worlds. From the beautiful landscapes, to characters to carefully crafted details, everything contributes to stories that stay with us long after the credits roll.