Studio Ghibli’s Kiki’s Delivery Service directed by Hayao Miyazaki is a fantastical tale of a young witch named Kiki starting a new adventure alongside her faithful cat, Jiji. Kiki sets off, beginning a customary tradition for witches to leave their homes for one year to pursue and train magical skills. When Kiki lands in a bustling city on the water, she forms a delivery service as her special talent. However, Kiki focused on surviving in this new location, loses her magical abilities, and it isn’t until Kiki can rediscover who she is that she will be able to regain her magic.
I simply adore this film for a multitude of reasons from its bright and cute animation style to the commentary on change. Primarily, the main cast of characters are all absolutely supportive and charming. Kiki as a main character is very likeable with her vibrant and strong personality, and it is impossible not to empathize with her struggles throughout. Ursula is a mentor to Kiki, and her painting is used as a parallel to Kiki’s growth, demonstrating that taking a break from a passion is not something to be demonized, and in fact can be entirely necessary. Tombo, Osono, and Fukuo all play a supporting role to Kiki, encouraging her to have fun and to enjoy herself. And of course, Jiji, Kiki’s cat appealed to me as someone who loves cats but also for the sense of levity and humor which he added to the film.
I would recommend this movie to any teenager who likes whimsical things, but especially to anyone in a poignant transition phase of their life. Kiki’s excitement to grow up is something that many teenagers can relate to but ultimately this film is a reminder to enjoy the present moment and to appreciate yourself for who you are right now!