Studio Ghibli Fest Returns with Even More Classics Hitting Theaters

Last year, GKids and Fathom Events re-released nine of Hayao Miyazaki’s films into theaters as part of its annual Studio Ghibli Fest. It ended up being the most successful marathon yet—”millions” participated, according to GKIDS President David Jesteadt. This year is bringing the tradition back, and it’s got more films added to its roster for fans to see on the big screen (again).

Building on the 11 films at 2023’s SGF, this year’s fest will have 14 movies play April 27 through December 11 in both sub and dub format. Whereas last year’s lineup was all about Miyazaki, this year’s selection also center works from directors Yoshifumi Kondo, Hiroyuki Morita, and Hiromasa Yonebayashi. The press relese promised some extra content to come during the festival, and in the case of Kiki’s Delivery Service, Pom Poko, and Howl’s Moving Castle, they’ll have “special celebrations” to commemorate their anniversaries later in the year.

Starting things out will be Spirited Away (April 27-May 1), Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (May 19 & May 21), Castle in the Sky (May 20 & May 22), The Secret World of Arietty (June 9 & June 11), and When Marnie was There (June 10 & 12).

Princess Mononoke (July 13-July 17) continues the festival, followed by Ponyo (August 3-August 7), Whisper of the Heart (August 25 & August 27), The Cat Returns (August 26 & 28), and Howl’s Moving Castle (September 26-October 3). Finally, things come to a close with Kiki’s Delivery Service (October 26-October 30), Pom Poko (November 24 & 26), The Tale of Princess Kaguya (November 25 & November 27), and My Neighbor Totoro (December 7-December 11).

Citing the “overwhelming success” of 2023’s Miyazaki-focused marathon, Fathom CEO Ray Nutt noted the “enduring legacy of Studio Ghibli films and the passion that fans have when it comes to seeing these classics in the theater. We’re excited to bring those very fans more of what they want this year, especially through another exciting collaboration with GKIDS.”

Tickets for each individual film can be purchased here. Between this, the Star Wars movies in May, and the Spider-Man flicks throughout the summer, it’s looking to be a busy year for re-releases.

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