How ‘When Marnie Was There’ Distinguishes Itself From Other Studio Ghibli Films
Studio Ghibli has been a powerhouse in Japanese animation for decades, producing iconic films like ‘Grave of the Fireflies’, ‘Castle in the Sky’, ‘Kiki’s Delivery Service’, ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’, and ‘Spirited Away’. Recently, Hayao Miyazaki’s latest film, ‘The Boy and the Heron’, won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature. This year also marks the tenth anniversary of Hiromasa Yonebayashi’s ‘When Marnie Was There’, an adaptation of Joan G. Robinson’s 1967 novel.
The film features talented voice actors, including Sara Takatsuki, Kasumi Arimura, Nanako Matsushima, and Susumu Terajima in the Japanese version, alongside an impressive English cast featuring Hailee Steinfeld, Kiernan Shipka, Catherine O’Hara, and John C. Reilly. While ‘When Marnie Was There’ lacks the fantastical elements present in other Ghibli films, it compensates with a deeply moving story that resonates emotionally.
Image Courtesy: Collider
The narrative centers on twelve-year-old Anna Sasaki, voiced by Sara Takatsuki and Hailee Steinfeld, a shy girl with no friends. The film opens with Anna observing a playground from a distance, illustrating her isolation. Following her doctor’s recommendation, Anna is sent to stay with her relatives in a beautiful seaside village, where she hopes to find some relief from her gloom. There, she meets Marnie, a mysterious girl from a wealthy family, and the two quickly form a close bond.
While Studio Ghibli is known for its stunning hand-drawn animation, ‘When Marnie Was There’ focuses on everyday life rather than fantastical elements.
Image Courtesy: Collider
Directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi, who has a long history with Ghibli, the film highlights the beauty in simple moments, showcasing rich details that draw the audience into its world. The connection between Anna and Marnie unfolds gradually, revealing hidden depths and emotional layers as the story progresses, ultimately leading to a surprising and heartfelt conclusion.
–Farheen Ali
