Thursday, July 19, 2012

Secret World of Arrietty



Secret World of Arrietty produced by Studio Ghibli, distributed by Disney.

Plot: Based on The Borrowers, The Secret World of Arrietty offers a Japanese-influenced retelling of the classic English story. Arrietty, the only daughter of two Borrowers, anticipates her first venture into the house. However, the sudden arrival of a young, ill boy threatens the plan. Her first trip ends abruptly when the boy spots her. He attempts to contact the family, despite their attempts to avoid him. Eventually, the trio have no other option. They must leave the house to avoid further detection. The boy may not be as malicious as they fear, though. Yet, despite his good and generous intentions, he may lead trouble to the Borrowers, particularly when the nosy maid becomes involved.

Genre: Anime, Movies, Fiction, Fantasy

Reading Level: Rated G

Similar Titles: The Cat Returns, Kiki's Delivery Service

Personal Thoughts: I liked the different cultures within the movie. Some viewers find the contrast forced or unsettling, but the blend of Western and Japanese styles enhances the setting of the film. Much of the animation attempts to follow the modern, Western style and, as a result, the art depicting backgrounds, furniture, light, and shadow allow an extreme focus to detail, enhancing the sense of smallness in Arrietty's world. However some aspects, particularly the character movement and eye design, maintain an anime-like appearance, allowing the film to focus on the expressiveness of the characters.

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