FROM THE ASHES: Segment #20

That Darn Pig

   This is one of the most charming of the Miyazaki films. A fantastical story of love; a love of the skies, and romance. This 1992 feature film is based on a three part manga written by Miyazaki himself. A unique feature of this film is its setting in a believable world, making it just about possible for it to have occurred in the real world, save for a cursed hero and a light-hearted attitude towards piracy. I have to say, it's a thrill to have Joe Hisaishi on the score again, and Toshio Suzuki on production. With both subtle and overt tones of war and political strife, this film had a bit of controversy wrapped up around it due to the war in Yugoslavia at the time, and some of its old time ideologies. So let's jump right in.

   My goodness, the score! This is one of the most uplifting scores that match its visuals perfectly. There's also a lot of silent expositional moments as well, but they all serve the film well. Very beautiful film indeed. While in some instances this film is a over romanticized look on wartime, it also retains a certain quality of darker tones in the background. Another notion in this film that I sometimes find irksome is its constant references to females announcing that they are females. The " it's because I'm a woman!" tagline gets a bit in your face sometimes, in my opinion. At the same time, this film does a good job of showing women as strong of mind and body as engineers and builders. The strong female is prevalent in many of Miyazaki's films, but here I feel it's rather diluted in comparison to some of his stronger female characters. Still, this film has its many charms as well. With warm and bright colors, even the darker elements of the story seem to fade away to the background. This film is one of those that I feel could have been a series filled with many more adventures, and a long-standing tale of great romance. This film is also a lovely tribute to aviation, which as one may notice, Miyazaki is a large fan of. Every single one of his films has a flight scene. The cast performances here are subtle, but noteworthy. The Japanese cast I think it's okay, but I personally love the English cast here. And an all star cast it is! This film stars Michael Keaton, Cary Elwes, Susan Egan, Brad Garrett, and Kevin Michael Richardson. While I wouldn't go so far as to call this my favorite of Miyazaki's films, I still recommend it for fans of planes, wartime dramas, classic romance, with nods to slapstick humor. While the mystery of Porco Rosso's curse eludes us, there's no doubt as to why people find this film so charming. Memorable characters, a classic film feel, beautiful scenery and the sensation of flight, all add up to a great work of art. Hope you enjoy!


From The Ashes, V.~

FROM THE ASHES: Segment # 7

Man vs Nature

   Welcome to another addition of Miyazaki week ( every third week). This time around it's the 1984 classic, Nausicaä Of The Valley Of The Wind. A beautiful story about man vs nature, set in a post-apocalyptic world, with a spirited princess struggling to fight for peace. This fantastical epic was inspired by many works, most notably Ursula Le Guin's Earthsea, Isaac Asimov's Nightfall, and JRR Tolkien's Lord of the Rings. A prominent theme in many of Miyazaki's works is anti war and environmentalism; this film is no exception. In fact, I dare say it makes its points the most successfully. While yes, its in your face, the film's themes are so softly and elegantly executed that one doesn't mind the neon headlights pointing you in the desired directions. On a more subtle and spiritual note, the stories starlet is of a very advocative mind and constantly seeking a peaceful answer for all; very Buddhist notions. A neutral and open minded nature is required and Nausicaä has them both in spades. And thus, the first of Miyazaki's good hearted leading ladies was created. Another future beloved aspect of Miyazaki's Productions, was the decision to work with the composer Joe Hisashi (1950-). At the time, he was known as an experimental artist, dominantly working with neo-classical and progressive rock themes. The soundtrack of this film definitely has moments where it yells loudly that it's from the 80's, but also manages to make sense with a blend of Eastern, Mediterranean, and classical melodies. Being the first original film that Miyazaki wanted to direct, it definitely has its newbie moments. The dialogue throughout many parts of the film is incredibly expositional rather than letting the imagery speak on its own and lead. However, especially towards the latter half of the film and the climax, the action and chaos does not allowed for muted pacing in its writing and dialogue. The imagery still gets it say, and is definitely not left behind. The overrun nature of the forest and plant life absolutely dominate the established world. An overwhelming feeling of enclosement gets across quite well. Humankind needs to keep all its focus and resources on survival, yet constantly bickers over power with land wars, and the powerful all have their own agendas. The film itself is an agenda: a message and a warning. Nature ought never to be forgotten or disrespected, for it will always have come before man and can overtake at any time it pleases. With so many films under the banner of "love the earth", what makes this one so special? So many focus on either challenging ones audiences mind, in order to show the logistics of action and consequence. Other films, overzealously appeal to the audience's hearts by bringing out all of the "feels" and just how darn mean that johnny human is and golly gee we should hate that jerk. Oh and hug the trees and crap. Nausicaä does neither of those, yet both. The good news is that while it appeals to both heart and mind, it also includes the spirit, making it a complete work and rightly satisfying to its audience. The success of Nausicaä gave Miyazaki and crew the needed boost to finally found Studio Ghibli in 1985. Another amusing footnote, the designs of characters and creatures have continued to inspire other creators such as Final Fantasy creator Hironobu Sakaguchi. The horseclaws and their riders inspired the beloved chocobos; a staple of the long time series.

   With all I have said already about the story, it's difficult to say much more without spoiling anything, as is my intention in every review. The film is beautiful, the soundtrack is diverse yet accompanies the film well, the characters and their progressions are all acted with a fierce sense of reality: both the most sly evil in man, and the genuine purity of man as well. As with most Miyazaki films brought to English speaking countries, I quite enjoy the English cast here. An all-out ensemble cast boasts so many talents for this special occasion, some being: Alison Lohman, Shia LaBeouf, Sir Patrick Stewart, Mark Hamill, and Edward James Olmos among others. Definitely worth many viewings, this film is not one to let slip unnoticed.

From The Ashes, V.~

FROM THE ASHES: Segment # 3

Before Austin, There Was Lupin

   This week and every third week will be Miyazaki week! Wha-cha! The brilliant combination of slick, silly, and sexy super spies and thieves might not be all together unique; but anyone who has watched Lupin III would tell you, Lupin is far from ordinary. The saga of Lupin the 3rd began with the manga's run in Weekly Manga Action in 1967. The series ran for 2 years and eventually became serialized in 14 volumes. A couple anime series later, the long list of feature films began. The second of these films is The Castle Of Cagliostro. This film (released in 1979), was the directorial debut of now renowned director Hayao Miyazaki, known for his many beloved films such as: Kiki's Delivery Service, My Neighbor Totoro, and Princess Mononoke. The 1991 theatrical release finally brought Miyazaki to American viewers. 

   Crafting together a roster full of colorful characters this franchise has it all: the silent and strong swordsman, the chain smoking gun slinger, the slick as she goes super spy, and the happy-go-lucky master thief. While the anime series played up each of the characters archtypes, Miyazaki's adaptations of each one was more subtle and mature in his film. This shift in tone was criticized by some elitists, but praised by other fans. Personally, I enjoyed a darker shade to this motley crew; for I often recall being perplexed at how the anime made everything seem so bombastic it was often difficult to take seriously at all. Mind you, the film still has some clunky animation and oh boy is the English dub a bit awkward at times, but overall it is still a well-put-together piece for both Japanese and English. I prefer the Japanese cast because I feel it closer ties the voice actors to their roles, but the English cast is great for a laugh at any 3 a.m. viewing. The spoiler free zone remains as I traverse through my review. This film is a lot of fun. Seriously. First you think Lupin is just a giggling thief looking for his next big score, but then he throws a curveball at you by being clever, honest, and brave. That goes for the plot of the film as well. At the beginning, it looks as if you can expect a thrill ride made up of a few chase scenes with some big payoff at the end where our protagonist gets the girl and the treasure, but you'd be surprised. With a very Bond-esqe villain to boot, the story has some nice twists and turns as well as familiar spy-movie tropes tossed in as well. I know, the vagabond with a heart of gold isn't out of the box per se, but the way it's told here is quality. And that's something I see reflected in all of Miyazaki's work: heart, beauty, depth, spirit, and quality fair and square. Just like in all his other films, one can't help but feel warm and fuzzy inside by the time the credits begin to roll. Mind you, there's definitely a bit of dark tossed in for good measure: a bit of language over here, some vile act of villany over there, and some untimely (pun intended) demise over there. Definitely a great start to a prosperous career, Miyazaki's The Castle Of Cagliostro is a thrill wrapped in a chase with a few surprises tossed in, but mostly just a lot of good old fashion fun.

From The Ashes, V.~

FROM THE ASHES: Segment # 16

Everyone's Favorite Witch

    Ahh, Kiki's Delivery Service. One of director Hayao Miyazaki most endearing classics; comes a tale that can be described in one word: lovely. From it's beautiful and timeless score, to the coming of age story that we all know so well, this cast of lovable characters, romanticized and colorful scenery, makes this film still one of the most recognizable and renowned of Miyazaki's works. This 1989 masterpiece is not only directed by Miyazaki, but also written and produced by him as well. Its lively score is once again composed by Joe Hisashi, who gives the fantastical utopian euro-esque landscapes and scope a timeless feel. This film is based on the 1985 novel by Japanese children's author Eiko Kodono (1935-). This also represents the first collaborative effort between Studio Ghibli and the Walt Disney Company, releasing an English dub theatrically in 1998. Production of Kiki's Delivery Service was a hectic one, until all the pieces were in place. The animation crew wanted to give this film a unique but timeless feel, so they researched landscapes ranging from the Swedish iles to South Australia to get the kind of imagery that they wanted. Also, some changes from the original story were made for the script to feel more flowing as a single narrative, as Kodona's novel was considered more a group of short stories. Now, for the story we get in this film.

    I love this movie. Its just....so...cute!!! From the breathtaking beauty of the opening scene, this film just gives one a nostalgic and peaceful feeling. I personally find myself smiling from time to time for no particular reason; its just a feel-good kind of movie. For what on average would seem just an ordinary slice of life story, Kiki offers more. A lead character with relatable goals and fears; to succeed at being true to oneself, and the fearful feeling of directionlessness. The story is heartwarming. We as an audience are swept up with Kiki as she flies her broom into the big world, and follow her in her adventures. The secondary cast of characters are also wonderful. With an excellent script, brilliantly adapted and performed, these elements only add to the quality here. I myself, adore the English dub, starring Kristen Dunst and the late Phil Hartman ( in his last performance), as Kiki's cat Jiji. Any of the changes for the personalities of the characters based on the English script are completely fine and enjoyable to me, so I can't say I mind them. All in all, this was a well-received film by audiences and critics alike, grossing $18 million in 1989. Siskel and Ebert also gave it a "two thumbs up!", as well as receiving a 100 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes.com. Adventure, fun and fantasy, with a heap of heart, this is not only a great film, but definitely one the whole family can enjoy. Check it out!

From The Ashes, V.~

FROM THE ASHES: Segment # 14

Totoro-to-toro! 

   Now we're really talkin nostalgia! As beloved as Winnie the Pooh, and well known as Mickey Mouse, is Hayao Miyazaki's My Neighbor Totoro (1988). Once again magnificently scored by Joe Hisaishi, comes a heartwarming tale of childhood summers, and mystical forest spirits. Doesn't sound like it would add up at first, but indeed it does. With so many other grand adventures carrying massive sociological, ethical, philosophical and moralistic themes, it was just the right time to cozy up to a simplistic fairytale; the kind that explores the adventure in everyday moments. And that's exactly what this film does. With a vibrant color palette, and a soft and charming tone, an exemplary tale of every day, or "slice of life" unfolds. Totoro became so popular with international audiences, that he in fact has a cultural impact in media. With nods to the character ranging from the pages of Neil Gaiman's The Sandman: Brief Lives, to Toy Story 3, one can't deny influence. Another powerhouse film, Totoro added to the wave of anime in the 1980s expanding the viewership of western audiences.

   The story here is timeless. With the countryside settings and lush landscapes, the environment doesn't feel dated; rather, it represents a peaceful idealism of relaxation. That alone appeals to audiences everywhere; for we often want to escape from our hectic lives and just hear the quiet. While there are some plot lines, they are extremely muted; almost background noise, really. The main story is one that feels as if it could go on forever, for how does one put parameters on imagination and a youthful heart? While there is quite a lot of fantastical whimsy spread throughout the film, the focus is always the children and their everyday discoveries. Weather the moment calls for chasing a tiny forest spirit, flying through the night sky with Totoro, watering flowers, cooking dinner, or enjoying a sunset, all activities are met with a sense of genuine love of life. To be sure, the hardships in life sometimes breach ones euphoria, but that doesn't mean they should not be faced with grace. A simple story that manages to also be not that simple, My Neighbor Totoro definitely warms the heart. It makes us all recall carefree days, no matter our age. A beautiful message brought beautifully to the screen, this film is a must see. Exquisite animation as always from Studio Ghibli, and a fantastic English cast brought together by Disney, the overall production is quality. I prefer the English cast here because while the Japanese actors are fine, some of the performances just felt a bit off to me. To each their own. Anyways, if you want a happy reminder of youthful days gone by, nothing is more nostalgic and heartwarming then this lovely story of my Neighbour Totoro. *sings along to the Totoro song* Enjoy!

From The Ashes, V.~

FROM THE ASHES: Segment # 11

Lost Cities Above the Clouds

   One tiny side note I must mention, this movie came to theaters on my birthday...a yeah before I was born, that is. Anecdotes aside, this week we travel to Hayao Miyazaki's Castle In The Sky. While Miyazaki both wrote and directed, Isao Takahata (1935-) produced the film. He is also the co-founder of Studio Ghibli. Another familiar crew member, Joe Hisaishi, returns as composer, bringing to life the grand sense of flight and fancy within this film. This 1986 feature was the first film produced and released under the banner of Studio Ghibli. However, with so many grand successes following, this film often gets outshined and at one of the longest running times (its over 2 hours), that's unfortunate. Many of the elements of the story and setting are inspired by Gulliver's Travels by Jonathan Swift. I personally found that ironic, as Gulliver's Travels is a personal favorite of mine, while Castle In The Sky is not high on my list. Through no fault of its own; mind you it's still a Miyazaki film. Thus, its still got a lot in its corner.

   For me personally I see this film as a great tribute to architecture and all the lost cities of literature. From Atlantis to Pompeii, this film gathers a bit of each stories adventure and mystical nature. This film has scale. The environments are vast; showcasing an expansive variety of locations as well. From a Victorian era themed pirate ship to a long-lost technologically advanced society that defied gravity itself, this film has it covered. Aaaaaaaand that's where my high praise begins its slippery slope. While I do admire the film's creativity, it all feels rather...borrowed. Its still original to be sure, however it does not surpass the sum of its parts. The characters are mostly passive, which seems ironic as everyone is always doing something. I wish there were more than a couple quiet moments in this film. The story is very linear. While that's not uncommon in many films, it just feels so blase here. As I stated before, this film's strong point is its nod to era specific architecture. It looks stunning. The structural layout and design of city spaces both on earth and in sky are dynamic and detailed. It definitely keep you wanting to explore the visuals throughout the film's progression. The final 20 minutes of the film are satisfying to the utopian fantasy sci-fi fan in all of us. There are many beautifully animated moments I enjoy throughout this film, and the score compliments them quite nicely. As for which cast to view it with, either is honestly fine. The story is simple, the settings are vast, the characters are a tad bland but still capable of charm and warmth. Sometimes the movie feels too long for its story, other times I feel it should have been a miniseries to properly express itself. Despite all my rantings, Castle In The Sky is still an entertaining adventure flick even with its long running time. May each lost traveler find their own point of interest in this tale above the clouds. Enjoy!

 

From The Ashes, V.~