Studio Ghibli, the epitome of enchanting animation, has graced fans with a captivating 15-second commercial in anticipation of the opening of its "Valley of Witches" area at Ghibli Park on March 16. Commemorating this magical occasion, the commercial features a moving castle reminiscent of the beloved "Howl's Moving Castle." With Hayao Miyazaki at the storyboard's helm and directed by Akihiko Yamashita, this brief yet mesmerizing ad promises a glimpse into the wonders awaiting visitors in the enchanting world of Ghibli.
A Moving Castle Ad: Capturing the Essence of Ghibli Magic
15 Seconds of Whimsical BeautyIn the short yet impactful commercial, viewers are treated to the sight of a moving castle, evoking memories of the iconic "Howl's Moving Castle." Hayao Miyazaki's masterful storyboarding sets the tone, ensuring that even in a brief span, the essence of Ghibli's enchantment is fully encapsulated. Directed by Akihiko Yamashita, who previously contributed as the character designer and animation director for "Howl's Moving Castle," and featuring art direction by Noboru Yoshida, the ad promises to be a visual treat for Ghibli enthusiasts.
Behind the Scenes: A Family Collaboration
Generations of CreativityProducer Toshio Suzuki revealed that the concept for the commercial originated from a request by Hayao Miyazaki's son, Goro Miyazaki. Demonstrating the collaborative spirit within the Miyazaki family, the ad becomes a testament to the generations of creativity that have made Studio Ghibli a powerhouse in the world of animation. With the magic of the moving castle, the commercial embodies the timeless allure that Studio Ghibli continues to weave into its creations.
Ghibli Park's Journey: From November 2022 to the Valley of Witches
A Long-Awaited WonderlandGhibli Park, initially scheduled to open in 2020, finally welcomed visitors on November 1, 2022. Nestled within the Aichi Expo Memorial Park, the park has been enchanting audiences with areas like Dondoko Forest, Ghibli's Grand Warehouse, Hill of Youth, and Mononoke Forest. As the Valley of Witches prepares to open its gates on March 16, the park promises to be a haven for fans and newcomers alike, offering a tangible experience of Ghibli's fantastical worlds.
Global Access: Tickets and International Outreach
Uniting Fans WorldwideIn January 2023, Ghibli Park made tickets available for purchase online, marking a significant step in the park's global accessibility. Fans from around the world can now embark on a journey to Ghibli's magical realm, experiencing the wonders that have captured hearts for decades.
Beyond the Park: Ghibli Museum in Mitaka
A Hub of Interactive JoyWhile Ghibli Park takes center stage, Studio Ghibli's legacy extends to the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Tokyo. A hub of interactive joy, the museum boasts exhibits, replicas, and a rotating screening of Ghibli-animated shorts, ensuring that the magic of Ghibli is alive and well in different corners of the world.
As the "Valley of Witches" prepares to open its doors, the moving castle ad becomes a prelude to the enchanting experiences that await visitors at Ghibli Park. With a rich legacy of storytelling, creativity, and boundless imagination, Studio Ghibli continues to be a guiding light in the world of animation, inviting audiences to step into a realm where magic knows no bounds.