A heartwarming, whimsical coming-of-age story that captures the magical yet challenging transition into independence, painted with the vibrant hues of a young witch's journey.
Kiki's Delivery Service
魔女の宅急便
"I was feeling blue, but I'm better now."
Director:
Hayao Miyazaki
Cast:
Minami Takayama, Rei Sakuma, Kappei Yamaguchi, Keiko Toda, Mieko Nobusawa
Animation
Family
Fantasy
Budget:
$6,900,000
Box Office:
$4,493,017
Kiki's Delivery Service - Easter Eggs & Hidden Details
Easter Eggs
A bus that Kiki nearly collides with when she first arrives in Koriko has 'Studio Ghibli' written on its side.
This is a classic self-referential Easter egg, a fun nod from the creators to their own studio hidden within the action of the scene. The bus appears more than once.
In Kiki's bedroom at the beginning of the film, a small model house on her shelf has tiny figures of Mei and a small Totoro from 'My Neighbor Totoro' painted in the windows.
This is a delightful crossover reference to Studio Ghibli's previous film, 'My Neighbor Totoro' (1988), linking the magical worlds of the two beloved stories.
In the crowd scene during the film's climax, a man in the upper right corner of the screen bears a strong resemblance to director Hayao Miyazaki.
This is believed to be a subtle cameo by the director, a common practice for filmmakers like Alfred Hitchcock. It's a way for Miyazaki to insert himself into the world he created.
Jiji the cat makes cameo appearances in later Studio Ghibli films, such as on a cushion in 'Spirited Away' and as a small figurine in 'Whisper of the Heart'.
This demonstrates the interconnectedness of the Ghibli universe and the creators' affection for their characters, rewarding eagle-eyed fans who watch multiple films from the studio.