Feb 7, 2021
As many other movies from Ghibli, Aya to Majo is also inspired in a story written by Diana Wynne Jones. And to better understand the problem with the story, the original author sadly died before being able to finish her book. So in a way this could be a tribute to her by the studio after how much she has given and inspired them in so many decades.
People seems to be extremely harsh on the movie just because Ghibli's animation trademark has been left behind in this occassion, it doesn't mean that beautiful classic animation we all know and love will dissapear forever. Actually for
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being their first 3DCG work it's completely astounding how brilliantly detailed everything is, so much that sometimes there are scenes could easily be mistaken for a real-life scenes; whether this is a good or a bad thing is for the viewer to judge on their own personal tastes, nevertheless, it's an incredible technical work of very high quality.
I don't believe the music can compete with wonderful OSTs from Princess Monoke, Howl's Moving Castle, Castle in the Sky, My Neighbor Totoro, Porco Rosso, and many other classics, but it's very enjoyable.
For the direction is not as bad as it may seem (Goro Miyazaki may not be his father, but he is overly critized just because he tries to propose something different and expand Studio Ghibli's views). We are talking about an unfinished story, so the movie just covers to that point. Of course characters and direction will feel bland because the original story is missing at the very least climax and dénouement, which make it feel like uncomplete or even question the point of choosing this story upon so many from Mrs. Jones (aganin the author); but then again it could be that Goro's intention was to tribute the author on her last unfinished work.
There is not much more to say, just don't expect a new Spirited Away, a new My Neighbor Totoro or a new Howl's Moving Castle, just enjoy the movie for what it is. Even with all the flaws this movie has, and understanding that we are not watching a classic, it's worthy to be watched (specially since we are fed so much worse trash than this movie).
Reviewer’s Rating: 7
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