I’ve been a gamer for as long as I can remember, and one of the most cherished experiences I have had with my daughter has been our shared love for Studio Ghibli movies. Over the years, we’ve watched countless films from the famed Japanese animation studio together, and they’ve become more than just entertainment for us. They’ve brought us closer and opened up conversations that go beyond the beautiful animations on screen.
Parents experience this multiple times in their child’s life, and currently, mine is an 8-year-old daughter who is maturing into a preteen. The entertainment that once amused us and brought us closer no longer appeals to her expanding mind. However, there’s one consistent element: our mutual affection for Studio Ghibli films.
For many years, my daughter and I have enjoyed watching numerous movies produced by the renowned Japanese animation studio. We’ve appreciated their works, even those not created by Hayao Miyazaki, which have served as a wonderful bonding experience for us. As she grows older, our mutual appreciation for these films becomes increasingly significant to us. Let me elucidate further…
Our Studio Ghibli Journey Started When My Daughter Was Only A Few Months Old
Growing up, I knew of Studio Ghibli, but I didn’t begin watching their films until after my daughter was born. Once my wife returned to work, there were days when only my daughter and I were at home. To make those afternoons more enjoyable, I decided to watch “My Neighbor Totoro” together.
During afternoons and weekends when my wife was occupied with wedding or family photography, my daughter and I would often spend time together on the couch. We’d watch as Satsuki and Mei embarked on imaginative journeys with magnificent creatures or accompanied a young witch in her quest to discover her place in the world through “Kiki’s Delivery Service.” This became our special bonding activity, which we continued even as she grew older.
As A Toddler, She Was More Obsessed With Kiki’s Delivery Service Than Frozen, Which Is Saying Something
After my daughter turned four, we subscribed to Max not too long after that, giving us the ability to stream most Studio Ghibli films that had been released prior. Although we could have obtained these movies through lengthy library waitlists or hard-to-find DVDs, my daughter developed an intense fascination with “Kiki’s Delivery Service.” This timeless classic continues to captivate viewers even today.
Around the time that Disney+ introduced “Frozen II,” my daughter was deeply engrossed in the franchise, collecting various items such as dresses, toys, a sing-along microphone, bedsheets, and more. However, she found herself repeatedly drawn to “Kiki’s Delivery Service” and its heartwarming tale of a young witch discovering her abilities and role in the world. This fascination has persisted, making “Kiki’s Delivery Service” a soothing source of comfort for my daughter.
As Time Has Gone By, She’s Starting To Talk About The Stories And Themes In Addition To The Animation
I’m not saying my daughter has lost her fondness for Studio Ghibli’s stunning animations, but lately her fascination has shifted from just the visuals to the narratives and underlying themes. She still cherishes her collections of books about “Spirited Away,” “Howl’s Moving Castle,” and “Castle in the Sky,” but her curiosity is now drawn deeper into the stories they tell.
Recently, my family and I went camping, and during the trip, my daughter carried a few DVDs with her for unwinding after a day’s worth of swimming or hiking. While strolling through the campsite one evening, she mentioned that she wanted to acquire “The Boy and the Heron” when we returned home (it had just been released on Blu-ray before our trip), but expressed concern over its themes dealing with death, mourning, and sadness.
I wasn’t prepared for a deep discussion about the passing of a parent with my 8-year-old during our bathroom walk, yet it happened. Such unexpected moments in parenthood are often spoken of in wonder – I’ve lived through one and found it truly enriching.
While Our Relationship Has Changed Over The Years, Our Shared Love For Studio Ghibli Movies Has Remained A Constant
Reflecting on the past, I’ve penned down my thoughts about how watching “Field of Dreams” at age 36 triggered deep contemplation regarding my connection with my father, and how this movie has been a consistent presence in our lives. Now, as I reminisce about the last eight-and-a-half years spent bonding with my daughter, I’m experiencing an identical emotional response towards Studio Ghibli films. Our mutual appreciation for these movies has served as one of the few unwavering elements in our relationship.
As a seasoned parent of a growing child, I can’t help but feel a mix of emotions as I watch my daughter evolve into her own unique individual. It’s truly a beautiful sight to behold, yet it comes with a tinge of sadness and apprehension. You see, I cherish every moment spent with my firstborn, relishing in the way she thinks, dreams, and is fascinated by things that often surprise me. Yet, as much as I wish we could always connect over shared interests or experiences, life has a funny way of taking us on different paths.
Honestly, I Can’t Wait To See Where This Not Only Takes Our Bond But Also Her Life
Looking back on my life journey so far, I can’t help but marvel at how unpredictable and full of surprises it has been. But one thing that remains a constant source of joy and wonder is my connection to art and the memories it evokes. I still remember that chilly February morning in 2016 when I sang Townes Van Zandt’s “I’ll Be There In Morning” to my precious little daughter. The warmth of her small form huddled against me, seeking comfort, as we listened to the hauntingly beautiful melody together, was a moment I will cherish forever.
Along with reflecting on our evolving connection and how it has evolved throughout the years, I’m eagerly anticipating observing the influence of Studio Ghibli on my daughter’s life moving forward. This passion has already expanded her horizons in the realm of anime, manga, and graphic novels, significantly enhancing her reading abilities within the last year. As a parent, it brings me immense joy to witness my child discovering something that not only provides enjoyment but also enriches their experiences in life.
It’s normal and expected as a parent to encounter such situations occasionally. I’m not sure when Hayao Miyazaki will release a new film next, but I’m looking forward to watching some Studio Ghibli classics in theaters again as part of their 2024 movie lineup.
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2024-07-22 12:07