Netflix signs Studio Ghibli streaming deal, launches next month

Studio Ghibli Characters. Image: Studio Ghibli

Image: Studio Ghibli

Netflix has picked up the exclusive streaming rights to the full film library from the popular Japanese animation house, Studio Ghibli for everywhere in the world, outside of the US and Japan.

The deal, detailed by the French distribution partner Wild Bunch International, represents a landmark partnership for the distribution of Japanese animation and animé to the world’s audiences, marking the first time that all 21 Ghibli films such as Hayao Miyazaki’s Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away and Howl’s Moving Castle will be made available via streaming on a global scale.

My Neighbour Totoro (1988). Image: Studio Ghibli

My Neighbour Totoro (1988). Image: Studio Ghibli

Kiki's Delivery Service (1989). Image: Studio Ghibli

Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989). Image: Studio Ghibli

Spirited Away (2001). Image: Studio Ghibli

Spirited Away (2001). Image: Studio Ghibli

Netflix says it will now roll out the Ghibli catalogue across its subscription streaming service in monthly segments, beginning with an initial launch on 1st February 2020.

“This is a dream come true for Netflix and millions of our members,” said Aram Yacoubian, Netflix’s director of original animation. “Studio Ghibli’s animated films are legendary and have enthralled fans around the world for over 35 years.

“We’re excited to make them available in more languages across Latin America, Europe, Africa, and Asia – so that more people can enjoy this whimsical and wonderful world of animation.”

Launched in 1985 by animation directors Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, Studio Ghibli’s films have received six Oscar nominations in the animated feature category, winning one in 2003 for Spirited Away.

Until last year, Ghibli guarded its titles from digital platforms, signing a deal to stream their films in North America on HBO Max.

“In this day and age, there are various great ways a film can reach audiences,” said Studio Ghibli producer, Toshio Suzuki. “We have listened to our fans and have made the definitive decision to stream our film catalogue.

“We hope people around the world will discover the world of Studio Ghibli through this experience.”

Netflix UK: Official Portal

Studio Ghibli is online at www.ghibli.jp (in Japanese) | Ghibli Museum in Tokyo: www.ghibli-museum.jp (in Japanese)



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