"Aya and the Witch" is an animated film produced by Studio Ghibli and directed by Goro Miyazaki. The film is based on the 2011 children's novel "Earwig and the Witch" written by Diana Wynne Jones. It served as the first-ever CGI animated film from Studio Ghibli, renowned for its hand-drawn animation style. The story revolves around Aya, a young orphan girl, who finds herself adopted by a mysterious couple, Bella Yaga and Mandrake, who turn out to be witches. At first, Aya is dismayed and confused by her new living situation, but she quickly realizes that she possesses a unique talent for manipulating others through her wit and charm. As Aya comes to terms with her new magical surroundings, she becomes entangled in a web of spells, potions, and secrets.
As Aya comes to terms with her new magical surroundings, she becomes entangled in a web of spells, potions, and secrets. With the help of a talking cat named Thomas, Aya navigates through the witch world, uncovering the truth about her own origins along the way. The film explores themes of identity, independence, and the power of friendship.
Studio Ghibli Gives Fans A First Glimpse At Upcoming Film ‘Aya And The Witch’
If there’s anything the world needs in abundance right now, it’s magic. Thankfully, Studio Ghibli – a Japanese animation studio based in Tokyo – is here to make it happen. The much-loved studio’s first new film in six years, Aya and the Witch, was originally set to premiere at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, which was cancelled due to the coronavirus. Now Studio Ghibli has released a series of stills from the film to give fans a glimpse of what’s to come.
The studio has moved away from it’s signature hand-drawn style
Aya and The Witch (2020) Studio Ghibli
Directed by Gorō Miyazaki, the studio’s first-ever CGI movie – a departure from its signature hand-drawn style – follows a young orphaned girl called Aya. In the story, based on Diana Wynne Jones’s children’s book Earwig and the Witch, Aya falls into the hands of new parents who know a whole lot about one thing: magic. Aya enters a new home filled with spirits, ghouls and all sorts of wonder and awe.
A character from the upcoming studio film
Aya and The Witch (2020) Studio Ghibli
Most Popular Fashion“I Guess I’m In Transition As A Person”: Angelina On Shaking Up Fashion With The Launch Of Atelier Jolie
By Chioma Nnadi Beauty The Best Time To Eat Dinner, According To The Experts By Audrey Noble Beauty The 6 Coolest Hairstyles To Try This Autumn By Hannah Coates“After coronavirus, how does the world change? That’s the biggest concern for many types of people now. Even the movie and television industry can’t avoid that,” said Ghibli co-founder Toshio Suzuki earlier this year. “Can Aya and the Witch do well after the coronavirus? I thought about that many times when I was watching the early footage,” he continued. “Then I realised the big characteristic of the movie is Aya’s wisdom. If only we have wisdom, we can overcome anything in any era… If Pippi Longstocking is the story of the world’s strongest girl, then Aya is the story of the world’s smartest girl. I hope she is loved by many types of people.”
A character from Aya and the Witch
Aya and The Witch (2020) Studio Ghibli
Set to air on Japanese TV later this year, it looks likely that international audiences will get to see it in 2021. In the meantime, you can work your way through the studio’s back catalogue on Netflix. As one British Vogue writer puts it: “Studio Ghibli’s fantastical Japanese classics are the best form of escapism under quarantine.”
More from British Vogue:
“After coronavirus, how does the world change? That’s the biggest concern for many types of people now. Even the movie and television industry can’t avoid that,” said Ghibli co-founder Toshio Suzuki earlier this year. “Can Aya and the Witch do well after the coronavirus? I thought about that many times when I was watching the early footage,” he continued. “Then I realised the big characteristic of the movie is Aya’s wisdom. If only we have wisdom, we can overcome anything in any era… If Pippi Longstocking is the story of the world’s strongest girl, then Aya is the story of the world’s smartest girl. I hope she is loved by many types of people.”
Aya's character development highlights the importance of self-discovery and embracing one's true self, even in the face of challenges and unfamiliar circumstances. The animation in "Aya and the Witch" has garnered mixed reviews, as it marks a departure from Studio Ghibli's traditional hand-drawn animation style. Some viewers found the CGI visuals to be lacking in comparison to the studio's previous works, while others appreciated the fresh direction and willingness to experiment. Despite its shortcomings, "Aya and the Witch" stays true to Studio Ghibli's signature storytelling style, with its emphasis on strong female protagonists and fantastical elements. The film offers a whimsical and light-hearted experience, suitable for both children and adults alike. Overall, "Aya and the Witch" is a charming addition to Studio Ghibli's extensive filmography, showcasing their ability to adapt and evolve without losing their unique storytelling magic..
Reviews for "The Magic System in Aya and the Witch: Explained"
1. John - 1 star - I was really disappointed with "Aya and the Witch." As a fan of Studio Ghibli's previous works, I had high expectations for this film. However, the animation was lackluster and the story felt underdeveloped. It lacked the depth and heart that I have come to expect from the studio. Overall, it was a forgettable experience, and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.
2. Sarah - 2 stars - I found "Aya and the Witch" to be a major letdown. The characters were poorly developed, and their motivations and emotions felt unclear throughout the film. The plot lacked substance and felt rushed. It seemed like the movie was trying to cram too much into its short runtime, leaving the audience with more questions than answers. I was expecting a charming and enchanting experience, but unfortunately, I was left feeling unsatisfied.
3. Alex - 2 stars - "Aya and the Witch" failed to capture my attention or spark my interest. The dialogue felt forced and unnatural, making it difficult for me to connect with the characters. The film lacked the whimsy and magic that I adore in Studio Ghibli's works. Moreover, the animation style was jarring and didn't seem to match the story's tone. Overall, I found the film to be a forgettable and lackluster addition to the Studio Ghibli collection.