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SoraNews24
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- SoraNews24
Beautiful covers make Studio Ghibli vinyl soundtracks and image albums look as good as they sound
Gorgeous artwork graces the jackets of LP releases of the work of Ghibli's greatest composer. Some audiophiles insist that vinyl recordings sound better than digital ones. You can make a pretty strong argument, though, that they sound better too, Because of their size and scratchable material, records need jackets, and those jackets can have beautiful artwork. Serving as stunning examples of that are these vinyl records for the anime films of Studio Ghibli, on offer from specialty shop Donguri Kyowakoku. There aren't just rectangular croppings of their respective movie posters or DVD covers, either, but artwork specially chosen for the LP jackets. Pictured above is the soundtrack for Princess Mononoke, which comes on two double-sided records containing 33 songs from Jo Hisaishi, the long-collaborating composer behind all of the Ghibli anime music we'll be looking at today, including Spirited Away. The perspective and sense of scale on the 21-song soundtrack's cover makes the bathhouse of the gods look both unsettling and intriguing, which describes the tone of many of the film's scenes. Ghibli's memorable anime architecture is also on display from a fresh angle in the jacket for the 26-piece Howl's Moving Castle soundtrack. Though Hisaishi has composed the scores for just about all of director Hayao Miyazaki's theatrical anime, he worked only one time with Isao Takahata when the late Ghibli co-founder was in the director's chair, making the 37-piece soundtrack for The Tale of the Princess Kaguya a once-in-an-artistic lifetime collaboration between the two. And last, we come to what was supposed to be Miyazaki's last feature-length anime, The Wind Rises, and its 32-piece soundtrack. All of the above soundtracks are two-record sets, although only the Princess Mononoke one uses both sides of both records, with the others using only one side of their second. Meanwhile, the Kiki's Delivery Service Soundtrack Music Collection is a more modestly sized one-disc, 21-piece selection of music from the only anime produced, directed, and written by Miyazaki. And if you want even more beautiful Ghibli record jacket art, it can be found on the covers for the film's 'image albums.' Image albums are what the Japanese music sphere calls musical compositions inspired by the setting, story, and characters of an animated work, but which aren't heard within the anime itself. In the case of the Kik's Delivery Service image album above, for example, Hisaishi's aim was to recreate the feeling of how Miyazaki described the setting to him, 'A vaguely European town, somewhere near the Mediterranean sea,' in musical form, in much the same way that the beautiful cover artwork of Kiki getting ready to depart her parent's house isn't taken directly from the film. That same philosophy is behind the image albums for Spirited Away , Howl's Moving Castle , and Princess Monoke . Each of the image albums are single-record, with 10 pieces of music and priced at 4,180 yen (US$29), as is the Kiki's Delivery Service Soundtrack Music Collection , while the two record soundtracks are 5,280 yen. Several of them were sold out and unavailable until recently, but they're all restocked and can be ordered through the Donguri Kyowakoku online store here. Source: Donguri Kyowakoku Top image: Donguri Kyowakoku Insert images: Donguri Kyowakoku (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10) ● Want to hear about SoraNews24's latest articles as soon as they're published? Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!
Express Tribune
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Ditch AI filters, consume real art
If you're an artist or just someone who admires the effort that goes into drawing and animation, you must have strong feelings about the heaps of AI-generated art that's been plaguing social media for a long time now. The recent trend of AI-generated images that has beguiled netizens recreates the visual style of Studio Ghibli's signature 2D animation. And if there are any doubts as to where the studio's founder — Hayao Miyazaki — would stand, here are his views on machine-created art that resurfaced after OpenAI launched its update: "I strongly feel that this is an insult to life itself." In case you're not aware of what Studio Ghibli films are, I — first and foremost - express my deepest sympathies that you had to learn through this trend, but I am also happy to inform you that you've come to the right place. If your curiosity is pushing you to find out what life looks like through the Ghibli lens, you need not wait any longer. Here are four of the studio's films to introduce you to the painstakingly hand-drawn and remarkably emotive world of animation — or, if you're a fan, to trick you into a binge watch. 'Howl's Moving Castle' It has become culturally imperative to begin your Ghibli journey with this one. Howl's Moving Castle follows Sophie, a young woman cursed by a jealous witch to transform into an old lady due to the witch's affection for Howl, a vagabond wizard who crosses paths with Sophie in the beginning. As the curse makes our protagonist forget her identity, she accidentally moves in with Howl's motley crew and helps them out with domestic duties, oblivious to the fact that the solution to her problem is nearby. If the found-family trope is an easy way to your heart, this film will win you over no sweat while serving you an extra slice of tender romance. Although a stunningly serene film, it strikes a fine balance between wholesome moments and gut-wrenching reality that'll have you aching for more. 'Kiki's Delivery Service' If you like witchcraft in your media and are looking for more magic after Howl's Moving Castle, you'll find it all in Kiki's Delivery Service. This coming-of-age fantasy story follows Kiki, a young witch who heads out of home to fulfill her desire for self-exploration. Aside from flaunting the picturesque world of Studio Ghibli, this film is your reassurance that hardships are a necessary part of growing up on your own. From introducing animal companions to unexpected friends, it reminds you that every step out of your comfort zone is worth the anticipation. 'The Secret World of Arrietty' If you grew up adoring Thumbelina or illustrated tales of a similar nature, it might be time to indulge your inner child with this heartwarming film. The Secret World of Arrietty follows its titular character in a miniature world as she "borrows" from the world of the much-larger humans for a living. Everything seems to be working in her family's favour until they are discovered by the humans and must fend for themselves. Packing compelling visuals that every Ghibli film is decked with, this feature stands out for its immersive look into the world that exists around us, just much bigger. If you're in the mood of a story that champions hope and courage, you wouldn't want to miss this one. 'Spirited Away' Ever wondered what your most inexplicable dreams would look like onscreen? Spirited Away is your answer. It focuses on Chihiro, a ten-year-old girl who visits an amusement park with her family but soon realises that something is off, though her protests are dismissed by her parents. After a mysterious meal turns them into pigs, it is up to Chihiro to bring them back by stepping into the world of uncanny supernatural beings. Released at a time when animation was seen as a form of entertainment reserved only for children, Spirited Away would sooner be a kid's nightmare than a fond core memory to look back on. But for grownups who don't mind being unnerved, the film's appeal lies in its unsettling elements and melancholic storyline. Does hope prevail in the end? Find out for yourself.
Express Tribune
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
4 Studio Ghibli films to distract you from OpenAI's viral filter
If you're an artist or just someone who admires the effort that goes into drawing and animation, you must have strong feelings about the heaps of AI-generated art that's been plaguing social media for a long time now. The recent trend of AI-generated images that has beguiled netizens recreates the visual style of Studio Ghibli's signature 2D animation. And if there are any doubts as to where the studio's founder — Hayao Miyazaki — would stand, here are his views on machine-created art that resurfaced after OpenAI launched its update: "I strongly feel that this is an insult to life itself." In case you're not aware of what Studio Ghibli films are, I — first and foremost — express my deepest sympathies that you had to learn through this trend, but I am also happy to inform you that you've come to the right place. If your curiosity is pushing you to find out what life looks like through the Ghibli lens, you need not wait any longer. Here are four of the studio's films to introduce you to the painstakingly hand-drawn and remarkably emotive world of animation — or, if you're a fan, to trick you into a binge watch. 'Howl's Moving Castle' It has become culturally imperative to begin your Ghibli journey with this one. Howl's Moving Castle follows Sophie, a young woman cursed by a jealous witch to transform into an old lady due to the witch's affection for Howl, a vagabond wizard who crosses paths with Sophie in the beginning. As the curse makes our protagonist forget her identity, she accidentally moves in with Howl's motley crew and helps them out with domestic duties, oblivious to the fact that the solution to her problem is nearby. If the found-family trope is an easy way to your heart, this film will win you over no sweat while serving you an extra slice of tender romance. Although a stunningly serene film, it strikes a fine balance between wholesome moments and gut-wrenching reality that'll have you aching for more. 'Kiki's Delivery Service' If you like witchcraft in your media and are looking for more magic after Howl's Moving Castle, you'll find it all in Kiki's Delivery Service. This coming-of-age fantasy story follows Kiki, a young witch who heads out of home to fulfill her desire for self-exploration. Aside from flaunting the picturesque world of Studio Ghibli, this film is your reassurance that hardships are a necessary part of growing up on your own. From introducing animal companions to unexpected friends, it reminds you that every step out of your comfort zone is worth the anticipation. 'The Secret World of Arrietty' If you grew up adoring Thumbelina or illustrated tales of a similar nature, it might be time to indulge your inner child with this heartwarming film. The Secret World of Arrietty follows its titular character in a miniature world as she 'borrows' from the world of the much-larger humans for a living. Everything seems to be working in her family's favour until they are discovered by the humans and must fend for themselves. Packing compelling visuals that every Ghibli film is decked with, this feature stands out for its immersive look into the world that exists around us, just much bigger. If you're in the mood of a story that champions hope and courage, you wouldn't want to miss this one. 'Spirited Away' Ever wondered what your most inexplicable dreams would look like onscreen? Spirited Away is your answer. It focuses on Chihiro, a ten-year-old girl who visits an amusement park with her family but soon realises that something is off, though her protests are dismissed by her parents. After a mysterious meal turns them into pigs, it is up to Chihiro to bring them back by stepping into the world of uncanny supernatural beings. Released at a time when animation was seen as a form of entertainment reserved only for children, Spirited Away would sooner be a kid's nightmare than a fond core memory to look back on. But for grownups who don't mind being unnerved, the film's appeal lies in its unsettling elements and melancholic storyline. Does hope prevail in the end? Find out for yourself. Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.
Time Out
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out
Ghibli Park to stay open after dark for the first time this August
One of Japan's most distinctive attractions, Ghibli Park celebrates the beloved characters and stories of the world-renowned Studio Ghibli. Unlike traditional theme parks, it doesn't feature any rides. Instead, it recreates iconic scenes and settings from the studio's anime, fulfilling fans' dreams of stepping into the films' richly imagined worlds in real life. While the park normally closes at 5pm, on three consecutive Saturdays this summer (August 2, 9 and 16), it will extend its opening hours until 8pm. This marks the first time Ghibli Park will remain open past sundown, and we're sure the illuminated night setting will make the grounds look even more magical. Although Ghibli Park is made up of five zones, only three will be included in this after-hours special. Fortunately, these are the park's most popular areas: Mononoke Village (inspired by Princess Mononoke), Valley of Witches (featuring settings from Howl's Moving Castle, Kiki's Delivery Service and Earwig and the Witch), and Ghibli's Grand Warehouse (a sprawling museum of sorts dedicated to the studio's greatest hits). Admission tickets for August, including access to the evening sessions, will go on sale at 2pm on Tuesday June 10. On those three special days, Ghibli's Grand Warehouse will offer additional entry slots at 4pm and 5pm. Take your time and wander, but don't miss the 7.30pm last entry for the Valley of Witches and Mononoke Village. Ghibli Park's inaugural evening special is part of Aichi Expo 20 Celebrations 's Night Fantasy festival, which runs on weekends and public holidays from August 2 to 17. During this time, the Aichi Expo Memorial Park – which Ghibli Park calls home – will come alive with summer festivities including Bon Odori, drone shows and more. So once you're done exploring the fantastical world of Ghibli, ease yourself back to reality with the more earthy fun at the memorial park.
Japan Today
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Japan Today
Ghibli Park after dark – anime theme park to stay open at night on special dates this summer
By Casey Baseel, SoraNews24 There are a lot of ways Ghibli Park isn't like other theme parks. The focus is on atmosphere and artistry, not rides and parades. Attendance is capped to keep the mood relaxed and peaceful. And when the sun goes down, everyone goes home, since Ghibli Park shuts down at 5 p.m. At least, it usually shuts down at 5 p.m. Ghibli Park is making an exception this summer, though, in connection with the Night Fantasy event being held at Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park, the park in which Ghibli Park is located. On the first three Saturdays of August, August 2, 9, and 16, Ghibli Park will be open until 8 p.m., giving anime fans the chance to enjoy the facility after sundown, which should make for an even more immersive-feeling experience. Ghibli Park is composed of five separate areas, three of which will be open on the special nights: Mononoke Village (based on the world of "Princess Mononoke"), "Valley of Witches" (with locations from "Howl's Moving Castle," "Kiki's Delivery Service" and "Earwig and the Witch"), and Ghibli's Grand Warehouse (a museum-like collection of Ghibli art, statues, and exhibits that also houses the theater which screens Studio Ghibli's short anime films). Admission to Ghibli's Grand Warehouse is organized into entrance-time blocks, so for the extended-hour days 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. blocks are being added, while entry gates to Mononoke Village and Valley of Witches will be open until 7:30 p.m. Tickets must be reserved in advance for all days at Ghibli Park, and reservations for August can be made starting June 10 at 2 p.m. online here. Source: Ghibli Park via Ghibli no Sekai Read more stories from SoraNews24. -- Hello Kitty theme park to be overrun by zombies this summer, young children barred from entering -- Ghibli Park announces new ticket system, adds flexibility and low-priced options -- Two Hayao Miyazaki-directed short anime are showing at Ghibli Park this summer External Link © SoraNews24
