Two additional Studio Ghibli films are set to be remastered for IMAX.
Animation enthusiasts in the U.S. and Canada are in for a treat, as GKIDS is set to bring two more Studio Ghibli classics to IMAX theaters this year. Following the announcement of Kiki’s Delivery Service hitting IMAX on March 13, both Whisper of the Heart and The Secret World of Arrietty have been confirmed for screenings on April 21 and May 19, respectively. This means fans can immerse themselves in the stunning visuals of Ghibli films in glorious 4K resolution, making those of us outside North America a bit envious.
Whisper of the Heart is a heartwarming coming-of-age tale directed by Yoshifumi Kondo, based on Aoi Hiiragi’s manga, with a screenplay crafted by Studio Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki. The story follows Shizuku, a young girl who becomes captivated by an antique cat figurine named the Baron, leading her on a transformative journey to discover her passion for storytelling. Tickets for its IMAX debut are already available.
For those looking for a more intimate adventure, The Secret World of Arrietty is another essential watch. Directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi and based on Mary Norton’s The Borrowers, this film reveals a hidden realm beneath the floorboards where tiny Borrowers, including the courageous Arrietty, live in secret. When a human boy named Shawn stumbles upon her, a new tale of friendship and adventure begins. The voice cast includes Moises Arias, Bridgit Mendler, David Henrie, Will Arnett, Carol Burnett, and Amy Poehler. Tickets for its IMAX debut can also be purchased now.
Both films will be shown in their original Japanese-language versions with subtitles, as well as in English-dubbed versions.
In early December of last year, GKIDS and IMAX announced their ongoing partnership, with The Boy and the Heron being the first Studio Ghibli film to screen in IMAX format in 2023. Following that, Princess Mononoke received a 4K IMAX release, and there are even more Ghibli films on the horizon.
While it remains uncertain if these IMAX screenings will extend to European audiences, it seems likely that fans in other regions will eventually get the chance to experience these beloved films in the same stunning 4K quality.
Whisper of the Heart and The Secret World of Arrietty will hit IMAX theaters on April 21 and May 19, respectively.