The description on the Netflix sleeve as "gentle" could not be more accurate in describing Kiki's Delivery Service. As a fan of Hayao Miyazaki's work, I figured it would be important to add this movie to the list, though in all honesty, it didn't live up to his other works.
Despite the story centering on a witch, there was surprisingly little magic in the movie, which in some ways helped keep the focus on Kiki's personal journey, but for a fantasy film, I just wanted more. Fairly episodic in structure, it was more of a meditation on growing up than the adventure it claims to be. The conflicts were short-lived and sometimes vague, but in many ways, that embodies those fun pre-teen years.
I could, however, relate to the idea that immersing oneself too heavily in one's work strips the magic away from life. This wasn't just a be-yourself sort of story. Kiki had a mission to which she was entirely devoted: to become a witch. However, while focusing on that one goal, she lost her joy, her best friend, and even her ability to work on her goal. In a way, the message for work-related depression is pretty somber. Nonetheless, the ending turns out happily for all, and we are left with a feel-all-right sort of movie. I'd give it three stars, just because of the director.
Despite the story centering on a witch, there was surprisingly little magic in the movie, which in some ways helped keep the focus on Kiki's personal journey, but for a fantasy film, I just wanted more. Fairly episodic in structure, it was more of a meditation on growing up than the adventure it claims to be. The conflicts were short-lived and sometimes vague, but in many ways, that embodies those fun pre-teen years.
I could, however, relate to the idea that immersing oneself too heavily in one's work strips the magic away from life. This wasn't just a be-yourself sort of story. Kiki had a mission to which she was entirely devoted: to become a witch. However, while focusing on that one goal, she lost her joy, her best friend, and even her ability to work on her goal. In a way, the message for work-related depression is pretty somber. Nonetheless, the ending turns out happily for all, and we are left with a feel-all-right sort of movie. I'd give it three stars, just because of the director.
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