Meanwhile on Earth
$10.50
Dir. Isao Takahata
1994, Japan, 119 min
Japanese with English subtitles
Rated PG
In this brilliant and often overlooked Studio Ghibli masterpiece from Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Isao Takahata, the forests are filled with groups of magical tanuki, mischievous raccoon-like animals from Japanese folklore that are capable of shape-shifting from their standard raccoon form to practically any object.
The tanuki spend their days playing idly in the hillsides and squabbling over food – until the construction of a huge new Tokyo suburb clears the nearby forest and threatens their way of life. In an effort to defend their home, the tanuki learn to transform into humans and start playing tricks to make the workers think the construction site is haunted, ending in a spectacular night-time spirit parade, with thousands of ghosts, dragons and other magical creatures descending on the city — in an abundance of fantastical characters that would not be matched on screen by Studio Ghibli until Spirited Away.
Presented in partnership with The Japan Foundation, Toronto.
For decades, Studio Ghibli has created breathtakingly beautiful movies that have captivated and inspired audiences for generations through masterful storytelling and stunning visuals. This December, join us to experience the wonder of these groundbreaking and beloved animated films.
This eight film series highlights the works of studio co-founders Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata. Featuring Howl’s Moving Castle, Kiki’s Delivery Service, Pom Poko, The Tale of The Princess Kaguya, Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind and Castle In The Sky.
