Positives This book is widely praised for being an informative, interesting, and fascinating overview of Studio Ghibli's productions. Many readers appreciated its exploration of the works of founders Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, including their pre-Ghibli careers and the studio's history. Reviewers highlighted the book's ability to introduce them to lesser-known Ghibli films and help them track the extensive filmography, often inspiring them to watch more. The book is noted for discussing the consistent themes, philosophies, and global issues addressed in Ghibli films, such as environmentalism, mythology, and various societal concerns. It is often described as accessible, an easy read, and, by some, well-written, laying out themes and impact in a reader-friendly manner.
Negatives However, a significant number of reviewers expressed a desire for more depth in the analysis. A common criticism is that the content often feels surface-level, consisting largely of simple retellings or synopses of the films, and offering little beyond what a viewer might discern on their own. Some found the language or writing style to be mediocre or distracting. There were also comments about an insufficient number of visual elements, with pictures being sparse or concentrated in one area, which felt like a missed opportunity given the visual nature of the subject. Additionally, some readers wished for more comprehensive explanations regarding film meanings, Japanese cultural traditions, or insights into the studio's production processes. One minor point of criticism noted inconsistent name formatting.
Conclusion Overall, the book is generally regarded as a pleasant and worthwhile overview of Studio Ghibli's filmography, making it a good starting point for new fans or a delightful chronological refresher for existing enthusiasts. It is best suited for casual Ghibli admirers or readers seeking a general introduction and a guide to discovering new films to add to their watchlist. However, those looking for rigorous academic analysis, extensive behind-the-scenes details, or profound, novel interpretations of the films may find it does not delve as deeply as they might hope.
