If you love the films of famed animator Hayao Miyazaki, you have the chance to enjoy many of his beloved classics on the big screen this year during GKIDS Ghibli Fest 2017. Six classics will be shown in theaters between now and late November – the titles shown during the summer are perfectly geared for the youngest theater goers, offering an ideal introduction to cinema’s finest. Click here for ticketing and further information.
We are giving away 4 tickets to the first film in the series, My Neighbor Totoro, which will screen on Sunday June 25 and Monday June 26. Enter to win by writing to familysavvy@gmail.com
My Neighbor Totoro is first up, and Common Sense recommends the film for kids 5+, noting that it’s a perfect way to start your kids on what will surely be a lifelong love affair with Miyazaki:
The movie introduces Americans unfamiliar with anime to Miyazaki’s signature themes: strong, independent girls as protagonists; whimsical creatures; an imaginative story; and a focus on how families interact with each other and their surrounding environment.
Once hooked, it’s not a bad idea to watch the whole Miyazaki opus over the summer, which we highly recommend. You won’t have to wait long for our favorite to come to theaters — Kiki’s Delivery Service screens on July 23-24. Spirited Away (which is spookier, and for older kids) made the New York Times’ Best 25 films of all time – and, screens in October.
Mark your calendars, and make going to the theaters a special treat this year.
Here is the line up for the rest of the fall (click for reviews from Common Sense Media)
Kiki’s Delivery Service 5+ Sunday, July 23 and Monday, July 24
Castle In The Sky 9 + Sunday, August 27 and Monday, August 28
Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind 10+ Sunday, September 24 and Monday, September 25
Spirited Away 9+ Sunday, October 29 and Monday, October 30
Howl’s Moving Castle 8+ Sunday, November 26 and Monday, November 27
