The Hidden Gem that has Slipped Under Anime Fans' Radar: Unveiling the Unnoticed Studio Ghibli Masterpiece

Studio Ghibli is a renowned name synonymous with exceptional anime movies. It is widely regarded as a prestigious and esteemed establishment in the realm of animation, mainly associated with the remarkable works of Hayao Miyazaki. However, despite receiving critical acclaim, certain Ghibli movies have been less warmly received by audiences upon their release, such as "Earwig and the Angry Witch" and "Tales of Earthsea."

Yet, even a subpar Ghibli film still surpasses the quality of many others. This is precisely why "The Red Turtle" stands out so significantly. It not only represents one of Ghibli's finest artistic accomplishments, but it is also a movie that is often overlooked and deliberately ignored by most Studio Ghibli fans. What is it about this film that compels admirers of this legendary studio to avoid watching it?

What is The Red Turtle?

Released in 2016, The Red Turtle is an animated film that stands out for being the first international collaboration by Studio Ghibli. Co-produced by Studio Ghibli and renowned French production companies, such as Wild Bunch, this dialogue-free film relies solely on visual storytelling. It tells the tale of a man who becomes stranded on a deserted island after his ship is wrecked in a storm. Despite his repeated attempts to escape, a Red Sea turtle frustrates his efforts. As time goes by, the man undergoes a mysterious transformation that profoundly affects his life.

The film, directed by Michaël Dudok de Wit, a Dutch-British animator, is praised for its breathtaking hand-drawn animation and thought-provoking exploration of themes like nature, isolation, and the circle of life. It captures the essence of a typical Ghibli film, receiving wide critical acclaim for its stunning visuals, emotional depth, and ability to convey complex ideas without the use of dialogue.

Who is Michaël Dudok de Wit?

Michaël Dudok de Wit, a Dutch-British director, is widely recognized for his achievements in animation. Born on July 15, 1953, in Abcoude, the Netherlands, he initially pursued graphic design at the West Surrey College of Art and Design in England. Subsequently, Dudok de Wit attended the National Film and Television School in Beaconsfield, England. His breakthrough came with the animated short film Father and Daughter (2000), which he both wrote and directed. This powerful film depicts the profound and emotional bond between a father and his daughter, earning him various accolades, including the 2001 Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film.

Capitalizing on the success of Father and Daughter, Dudok de Wit collaborated with Studio Ghibli for his first full-length feature. Impressed by the thematic content of The Red Turtle, Studio Ghibli's producer Toshio Suzuki offered their assistance in producing and animating the film (partly due to the studio's lack of an ongoing movie project at the time). Dudok de Wit is renowned for his ability to convey intricate emotions and narratives through animation. His works frequently delve into themes of love, loss, and the beauty found in everyday life. Renowned for his meticulous attention to detail and commitment to hand-drawn animation, Michal Dudok de Wit is held in high regard within the industry.

The Red Turtle's Reception

The Red Turtle has garnered multiple accolades, notably the Special Jury Prize at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival. Moreover, it received a nomination for the Best Animated Feature Film category at the 89th Academy Awards. With its distinctive storytelling and artistic style, this film has captivated audiences worldwide, solidifying its status as an exceptional addition to the animated film genre.

Why Do Studio Ghibli Fans Ignore it?

Although officially recognized as part of Studio Ghibli's collection and benefiting from the producing prowess of Suzuki and Isao Takahata, The Red Turtle diverges from the typical Studio Ghibli aesthetic. Not only does it deviate from the familiar sight of their blue logo, which, for various reasons, appropriately transforms into a red hue, but the film itself also distinguishes itself from traditional anime. It is true that Ghibli contributed significantly to the animation of The Red Turtle; nevertheless, the movie was destined to possess a distinct appearance unlike any prior Studio Ghibli production.

The lack of dialogue in The Red Turtle can be disorienting for Studio Ghibli fans, as it forces them to confront the unconventional animation style directly, amplifying the already distinct appearance of the film. Additionally, the fact that the movie was written and directed by someone of Dutch and British descent further contributes to the divergence from typical Japanese cultural influences seen in anime and Studio Ghibli films. Director Dudok de Wit is talented, but the absence of Japanese cultural influence in The Red Turtle sets it apart thematically, adding to its unique status among Ghibli films. It is unfortunate that many Ghibli fans overlook this film, as it possesses a beauty and uniqueness that sets it apart while also offering a distinct power not found in other Ghibli films. It is definitely worth experiencing on its own merits.

You can stream The Red Turtle on Starz.