‘From Up on Poppy Hill’: Studio Ghibli Films with a Realistic Feel

The majority of animated films use fantasy elements, such as talking animals, anthropomorphic objects, and magic. Both Disney and Japan’s Studio Ghibli do this because it creates a huge fantasy world for viewers, both children and adults. Studio Ghibli’s latest film, however, relies heavily on reality. From Up On Poppy Hill” is a simple story without any fantasy elements. It tells a simple coming-of-age story about a girl. From Up On Poppy Hill” isn’t the first Studio Ghibli film to tell a simple, real story using animation instead of real actors. These films prove that animation doesn’t need fantasy to appeal to an audience.

‘Only Yesterday’

“Only Yesterday” is unique in that it is a cartoon for adults. It is the story of a woman who recalls her childhood through flashbacks while visiting the country. If the film was made with real actors, it wouldn’t have had the same appeal and might not have done so well. The animation helps to tell the story, and is beautiful. “Only Yesterday” was not released in the U.S., but it is available on DVD for anyone with an all-region DVD player.

‘Whisper of the Heart’

Whisper of the Heat” is another coming-of-age story about a young girl. Nothing happens in this movie. At least nothing exciting or adventurous. It does have a short fantasy sequence with The Baron, but it is only a dream. It is all about a young girl who likes a boy that she realizes has read all the same books as her. Despite the simplicity of the film, viewers find themselves watching it intently and glad they watched the movie once it is over.

‘My Neighbors the Yamadas’

What makes “My Neighbors the Yamadas” so different from the other realistic movies on this list is the animation. The entire movie was drawn like watercolor paintings, except they are watercolor paintings that move. The movie revolves around the every day life of the Yamadas, a family like any other in Japan. The most exciting things to happen in the movie are when the little daughter is left at the mall and when the father confronts the hoodlums on the street.

‘Grave of the Fireflies’

“Grave of the Fireflies” is a very real film, to a disturbing degree. It is often considered one of the most depressing films ever made, if not the most depressing. It is the story of a brother who tries to take care of his little sister during war. It is a heartbreaking tale, and incredibly difficult to watch. Be prepared. Keep two boxes of tissues handy. Although it is so depressing, “Grave of the Fireflies” is a must watch film, not only for the moral of the story but also for the animation.