The Secret World of Arrietty

There is an ocean of difference between the animated films we usually see in our theaters and those produced by Studio Ghibli. Without detracting from the great work of Pixar or Dreamworks, the Japanese studio films possess a unique magic, not only because they still hand-draw their work, which is one of its greatest virtues, but also because of the way it addresses family stories from a fantastic, honest and spiritual perspective.

In The Secret World of Arrietty, Ghibli artists make of a small house a huge world based on the novel The Borrowers (1952), by Mary Norton, adapted for the film by the legendary studio founder, Hayao Miyazaki. The director Hiromasa Yonebayashi makes his debut with this memorable film that compensates the lack of action with a plot full of good feelings and visual beauty.

Arrietty is the only child of a couple of "Borrowers", tiny little people living secretly borrowing from humans. For them, climbing or crossing the recesses of a closet to another is equivalent to climbing a mountain or crossing a canyon. The beautiful animation conveys the sense of discovery that Arrietty experiences in her first exploration while making the dangers of her adventure palpable.

The "Borrowers" are the only unrealistic element of the film, unlike most of Ghibli productions, but they are also the ones that give a special touch to it, particularly considering the serious situation faced by the child living in the house. Between him and Arrietty a peculiar friendship is born, one based on mutual wonder and curiosity.

The slow pace of the film provides a deep breath and a welcome change of tempo compared to Hollywood animated productions. No secondary characters making jokes, no big action scenes.  The plot moves with tranquility and the characters are expressed with a serenity that makes the movie feel like the classic family play.

This feature allows the viewer to contemplate the development of the tender relationship between Arrietty and Shawn: the younger audience is exposed to deeper emotional issues while adults are moved to understand the reality of these issues.

The Secret World of Arrietty offers the chance to enjoy a different experience, where emotions and art are more important than mere entertainment. Take advantage of it and let yourself go with its charm.

Director: Hiromasa Yonebayashi

Writers: Mary Norton (novel), Hayao Miyazaki (screenplay)

Stars: Bridgit Mendler, Amy Poehler and Will Arnett