Read the book after watching the film. Completely touched.
During quarantine, I have been rewatching some Studio Ghibli films on Netflix. When I discovered that Netflix has added these Ghibli animations on Netflix UK, I was completely over the moon! Yesterday, I watched When Marnie Was There, directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi, released in 2014.
I first watched the film, When Marnie Was There around the age of nine. I remember going to the movie theatre with my grandmother and seeing the brand new animation by Studio Ghibli. Although the film had its usual aesthetic atmosphere of other Studio Ghibli works in the past, I felt that When Marnie Was There portrayed the theme of family and relationship in a very meaningful sense which I felt was quite impactful.
The film transfers its setting to Japan, though originally, it is set in the UK. What Ghibli does extremely well in the film, is representing the Japanese culture, while still portraying the European scenery throughout the story. Anna, the protagonist, is sent to the countryside at the start of the film, and the change of the setting (from the city to the countryside), enables the European scenery to slowly blend in with the Japanese culture. It felt as if the two countries (Japan and the UK) was almost combined together, though, the fact that the true setting is Japan, is still believable. Ghibli has always been successful in creating unique visions and atmosphere. In fact, more than half of Studio Ghibli animations are dystopian. However, this existing yet refreshing setting of the film, seemed like a rare sight.
Of course, the original book itself was a masterpiece as well. The development of Anna's state is very intriguing to observe throughout the book, and how Marnie takes part in that process is also a part that made me think and connect to the real world. The book has raised questions such as, who is the Marnie for me in this world? . It has also made me think about the importance of family and relationship in a deeper, more meaningful sense. When Marnie Was There was originally written as a children's book. However, reading the book and watching the film again as a teenager, has helped me reflect.
In this period of time when we are experiencing something so impactful to each of our lives, reflecting on ourselves is crucial. Staying at home all day, having less of a tight schedule, has been challenging so far, and I know for a fact that it is easier to start getting unhealthy not only physically but also mentally. When I am in boarding, having to do my own laundry, manage time by myself and such, I barely have time to stay still and simply think. Though, in the present, I almost have too much time to spare that I cannot stop feeling anxious. I just keep on worrying without even knowing what I am worried about.
I am slowly starting to find my place again, by talking it out. I had a talk with my mum today, though I have to say it was more like a rant by me, followed by my mum giving me a pep talk. One think she said to me that I can remember clearly, is to do what I can only do now. Use this opportunity for good and stop focusing on the negative side. Think about how lucky I am for being able to spend time with my family, having enough food to eat, being able to stay safe. Live upon that.
So I encourage you all to be thankful, and most importantly, stay hopeful.
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