At the Festival, We Will Celebrate 40 Fantastic Years of Studio Ghibli
24. January 2025
We are unveiling the first highlight from the program of the 65th year of our festival. Together in Zlín, we will celebrate the 40th anniversary of Japan’s Studio Ghibli. In addition to screenings of legendary films with special introductions, you can look forward to esteemed guests and a masterclass for both students and the public.
One of the most acclaimed and popular animation studios in the world, Studio Ghibli produced films under the direction of renowned Japanese anime directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, and producer Toshio Suzuki. Iconic works include My Neighbor Totoro, Grave of the Fireflies, Princess Mononoke, and the Academy Award-winning Spirited Away.
As part of the 65th Zlín Film Festival, we will commemorate this significant anniversary with film screenings featuring fascinating introductions. One of the speakers will be Michael Leader, co-author of the book Ghibliotheque. As one of the biggest fans and experts on the world of Ghibli, he will hold a masterclass in Zlín for students and the public.
Photo: © Spirited Away
Studio Ghibli was founded on June 15, 1985 and has produced over twenty feature films, dozens of short films, and several TV series and commercials. Its leading figure is the aforementioned director, animator, artist, screenwriter, manga author, and Oscar winner Hayao Miyazaki (1941), whose work is part of the golden treasury of world cinema.
With few exceptions, Studio Ghibli films are hand-drawn, which means each production takes a very long time to complete. Unlike other major film studios, the protagonists are often children or adolescents who take on surprisingly heavy burdens and adult responsibilities. The films are also known for their abundance of original fantastical creatures, showcasing the immense imagination of Miyazaki.
Whether you are a fan of Japanese anime or are just about to discover this world, do not miss the unique films from Studio Ghibli in our festival program.