This November, The Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM) is bringing a magical experience to the heart of Manila with a free mini film festival dedicated to the legendary Japanese filmmaker, Hayao Miyazaki. Known for his enchanting storytelling and beautifully crafted animated worlds, Miyazaki has won hearts worldwide with Studio Ghibli’s classic films. Now, in celebration of Miyazaki’s upcoming Ramon Magsaysay Award, you can catch some of his most iconic works on the big screen—for free! Whether you’re a long-time fan of Studio Ghibli or discovering Miyazaki’s worlds for the first time, The Studio Ghibli Weekend at Shangri-La Plaza’s Red Carpet Cinema on November 16-17, 2024, offers an unforgettable cinematic journey.

The Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM) together with mm2, the official partner of Studio Ghibli and the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation will showcase six of Miyazaki’s most beloved works in a free mini film festival at the Shangri-la Plaza Red Carpet Cinema this coming 16-17 November 2024. Here’s everything you need to know about this unique film festival honoring one of Japan’s most celebrated filmmakers.

A Master of Animation and Storytelling

Hayao Miyazaki, the co-founder of Studio Ghibli, is celebrated for his thoughtful and complex stories that resonate with audiences of all ages. His films often explore themes of nature, peace, and humanity, with characters that embody resilience, compassion, and courage. For this, he is receiving the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award, an honor recognizing individuals who embody greatness of spirit and service to humanity.

Miyazaki’s work goes beyond animation; it’s a lens through which viewers can reflect on the world. His characters face relatable struggles including, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984), a boy and girl discovering a floating city in Castle in the Sky (1986), or a gentle creature teaching the importance of nature in My Neighbor Totoro (1988), the festival’s opening film Spirited Away (2001), Howl’s Moving Castle (2004), and Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea (2008). Each story is crafted with such depth that it speaks to viewers about empathy, the environment, and the beauty of life.

Studio Ghibli Weekend Line-Up: What to Expect

The film festival will feature six of Miyazaki’s most beloved works, showcasing his talent for blending fantasy with human themes. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s on the schedule:

• Spirited Away (2001): The festival’s opening film, Spirited Away follows 10-year-old Chihiro, who stumbles upon a magical bathhouse and must navigate a world of spirits to save her parents. It’s a beautiful story of bravery, friendship, and growth, and won an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.
• Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984): Set in a post-apocalyptic world, this film tells the story of Nausicaä, a princess who fights to bring peace between her people and the creatures of the Toxic Jungle. A powerful tale of environmentalism and peace, it’s a Miyazaki masterpiece.
• Castle in the Sky (1986): This adventure film introduces viewers to Laputa, a floating city with hidden treasures. Two young protagonists embark on a thrilling journey to find this lost civilization, facing pirates and military forces along the way.
• My Neighbor Totoro (1988): Follow the delightful journey of two young sisters, Mei and Satsuki, who meet a giant, friendly forest spirit named Totoro. This heartwarming tale celebrates childhood innocence and the beauty of nature.
• Howl’s Moving Castle (2004): Based on Diana Wynne Jones’s novel, this film tells the story of Sophie, a young woman cursed to look like an old woman, who seeks help from a mysterious wizard named Howl. It’s a magical tale of love, transformation, and self-discovery.
• Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea (2008): This film follows the friendship between a young boy named Sosuke and Ponyo, a magical fish who dreams of becoming human. It’s a charming exploration of childhood, love, and the power of nature.

These memorable works are revered by generations of movie fans in the Philippines and were chosen specifically to show the enduring quality of the Miyazaki’s work.

“These works display a deep understanding of the human condition, engaging their viewers to reflect on their own situation and exercise their humanity,” cites the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation. It continues, “He tackles complicated issues, using his art to make them comprehensible to children, whether it be about protecting the environment, advocating for peace, or championing the rights and roles of women in society.”

Each of these films has been handpicked to showcase the unique storytelling and artistry of Miyazaki’s work. These screenings offer a rare chance for Filipino fans to see these classics on the big screen, and for newcomers, it’s the perfect introduction to the magical worlds of Studio Ghibli.

When and Where: All the Details

The Studio Ghibli Weekend will be held on November 16-17, 2024, at the Shangri-La Plaza Red Carpet Cinema. Admission is free, but seats are limited, so it’s first-come, first-served. To secure your spot, tickets will be available online starting November 4, 2024, at 12:00 NN through the official ticketing link (http://tinyurl.com/TSGWTickets). Please note that online tickets will be deemed invalid if guests fail to enter the cinema within 10 minutes after the start of the screening. Walk-in guests will get the chance to occupy unaccommodated seats.

Please be reminded that tickets are free of charge and are not for sale. The re-selling and redistribution of tickets is strictly prohibited.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Arrive on Time: Ticket holders must be seated within 10 minutes of the screening time. Otherwise, seats may be given to walk-in guests.
No Reselling: Tickets are free and not for sale. Reselling or redistributing tickets is strictly prohibited.

Whether you’re attending alone, with friends, or bringing the whole family, this event is a fantastic way to spend a weekend immersed in the enchanting and thought-provoking world of Studio Ghibli.

For complete film lineup, screening schedules, and additional information on The Studio Ghibli Weekend, visit the official The Japan Foundation, Manila website http://www.jfmo.org.ph or follow them on their social media pages.

Invite your friends, bring your family, and let’s show our love for the master storyteller himself.  Make sure to grab your tickets early, enjoy the magic of Miyazaki, and experience a weekend that’s bound to be as enchanting as the films themselves.

The Studio Ghibli Weekend is presented by The Japan Foundation, Manila, and the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation, and is supported by The Shangri-la Plaza Red Carpet Cinema, Fully Booked, and the Film Development Council of the Philippines. Studio Ghibli titles are officially distributed in the Philippines by mm2 Entertainment.