The first movie directed by Hayao Miyazaki was “Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind” in 1984. This Japanese animation film set the ball rolling for director Hayao Miyazaki and led him to then create the animation giant, Studio Ghibli. Founded in 1985 Tokyo, Studio Ghibli has been a gateway for more Japanese animation films.

Miyazaki, deceased director Isao Takahata and producer Toshio Suzuki are the brilliant minds behind the well known animation studio. Studio Ghibli has gone through many changes in leadership and industry partners but still remains true to the craft of animation. Miyazaki has even come out of retirement three times over the years because he wanted to see the films done right for the studio. Miyazaki has a passion for Studio Ghibli films and that can clearly be seen by how beautiful his movies are. The stories can range from part history, part fantasy and part personal memories. Each film has a unique sense of style.

A person does not have to be a fan of animation to appreciate the mastery of making such animated films. The visuals these movies provide is unlike any other. These films are not like the Disney films that the United States is so used to watching. Studio Ghibli has a more authentic Japanese style and is for a more mature audience whereas Disney can seem more childish. Miyazaki’s films are one-of-a-kind.

The Studio Ghibli Fest is a great way to experience Japanese anime for the first time right here in Los Angeles. To see all these wonderful films on the big screen is truly the best way to view them. Whether you are a huge fan of anime or just curious about these iconic works, they are still worth the trip to view them in theaters.

Starting from April to December, select Cinemark Cinemas will be featuring nine animated films from Studio Ghibli. The screenings kicked off with “Howl’s Moving Castle” in April. Up next is “Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind” in May, “Whisper of the Heart” in the beginning of July,  “Kiki’s Delivery Service” towards the end of July, “My Neighbor Totoro” in August, “The Secret World of Arrietty” in September, “Spirited Away” in October, “Princess Mononoke” in November and finally “The Tale of the Princess Kaguya” in December.