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Leaders
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Leaders
Ithra Celebrates Eid Al-Adha with 31 Festivities
The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is set to celebrate Eid Al-Adha through 31 events over three days, according to the Saudi Press Agency. Ithra will provide visitors of all ages with a vast array of entertaining and cultural activities such as music, storytelling, games and workshops. Several activities will be in Arabic but are accessible to all people under the theme of 'Ribbons of Giving.' Ithra Interestingly, the center will host a concert at Ithra Theater by Egyptian oud virtuoso Islam Al-Qasabgy, who is known for mixing classical Arabic music with modern styles. Meanwhile, Ithra Cinema will display the Japanese manga character Chibi Maruko-chan and the Japanese animated fantasy movie 'Kiki's Delivery Service' with Arabic subtitles. Moreover, visitors will have an unmissable opportunity to visit various stunning exhibitions at Ithra Museum, which focus on handicrafts and align with the 'Year of Handicrafts'. Ithra Other festive offerings involve a 96 km trek along the historic Hajj trail that shares many stories about persistence and generosity across generations. Visitors can also enjoy an interactive show titled 'A Melody from Every Land' which celebrates the cultural diversity of the Islamic world and reflects the different traditions of Eid Al-Adha. Guests can enter Ithra from 4 to 11 p.m. during the Eid celebrations for free. Only certain events are ticketed. Related Topics: Ithra Celebrates Gargee'an with Fun and Festivities Eid Al-Adha 2025: Saudi Arabia Announces 4-Day Holiday for Private Sector Ithra Showcases Magnificent Artworks at Art Week Riyadh Short link : Post Views: 33 Related Stories
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.
SoraNews24
04-05-2025
- Entertainment
- SoraNews24
Have a cool summer, say Totoro and No Face with Ghibli towel-type pillowcases【Photos】
Characters from My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Kiki's Delivery Service want to help keep you cozy on hot summer nights. 'Have a cool summer!' It's really not the deepest sentiment, but hey, what else are you supposed to write when you're about to go on summer break and suddenly asked to sign a casual-acquaintance classmate's yearbook? For generations, it's been a go-to phrase for cordial, noncommittal well-wishing, even if it's not a particularly personalized piece of prose. However, 'Have a cool summer' takes on an added joyous significance when it's the unspoken message from Totoro. With the start of summer coming up fast, Studio Ghibli specialty shop Donguri Kyowakoku is standing by with its Towel Pillow Cover series, featuring characters from anime classics My Neighbor Totoro, Kiki's Delivery Service, and Spirited Away. Starting with the Totoro designs, there are three to choose from, with the first showing the Big Totoro on one side, and the Small Totoro on the other, with a group of Soot Sprites hanging out with them. Early summer in Japan is marked by frequent rain showers, which makes not only the motif on the above pillow appropriate, and the high humidity that continues for the entire season is what inspires the material choice. Made of a stretchy, 95-percent cotton, 5-percent polyurethane blend, the terrycloth-like Towel Pillow Cover are invitingly soft, but also breathable and absorbent, helping reduce sweating while you sleep and also soaking up any perspiration your head still needs to produce. They're essentially pillowcase counterparts to the Totoro and Catbus towelket blankets we looked at a while back. Ah, but what about the Medium Totoro, the mid-sized blue forest spirit? Don't worry, here's present and accounted for too in a patterned pillowcase. The gray Totoro pattern cover is actually a bit of a conversation piece/debate prompt. From the color, you might assume that it's depicting the Big Totoro, and the chubbier proportions also align with the largest-size version of the creature. Even Donguri Kyowakoku itself designates it the 'Big Totoro Silhouette' pillow cover. However, if you look closely, you'll see that these gray Totoros only have three markings on their chest, like the Medium Totoro, and not the more numerous marks the Big Totoro is usually depicted with. ▼ Both cases have 'My Neighbor Totoro' written on their reverse sides. Also here to help you stay cool as you sleep is Spirited Away's No Face, flanked by Soot Sprites and with the 油 emblem of the Aburaya bathhouse of the gods… …and his travel companions mouse-form Boh and Yu-Bird on the other side. Finally, there are two Kiki's Delivery Service Towel Pillow Covers… …with black cat Jiji representing the charter cast, though the sign little witch Kiki hands up outside the bakery she runs her courier enterprise from is shown too. The second pillowcase, though, is all Jiji. Donguri Kyowakoku lists all of the pillowcases as 'for adult-use,' but that's a reference to their size, not an indication that they're inappropriate for young children, as they're for use with pillows 63 centimeters (24.8 inches) in length. Priced at 2,200 yen (US$15.15) each, the whole lineup is available through the Donguri Kyowakoku online store here. Source: Donguri Kyowakoku Top image: Donguri Kyowakoku Insert images: Donguri Kyowakoku (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) ● Want to hear about SoraNews24's latest articles as soon as they're published? Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!
