Get an insight into Studio Ghibli's use of colour with these specially designed palettes.
StudioCanal have released a set of seven images designed exclusively by Roxy Radulescu of Movies in Color to celebrate Studio Ghibli's retrospective season Studio Ghibli Forever, which encompasses the release of their newest film When Marnie Was There and graces UK cinemas on June 10th. It sees the last work of lead animator Makiko Futaki who sadly passed away last week.
The images and analysis highlight the animation powerhouse's exquisite and impactful use of colour in their animation across films such as Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea, Laputa: Castle in the Sky and new film When Marnie Was There.
In cinemas on June 10th, screening in both Japanese and English, When Marnie Was There's star-studded English-speaking cast includes Kiernan Shipka, Hailee Steinfeld, Kathy Bates, Ellen Burstyn, Catherine O'Hara and John C. Reilly.
The film will be released as part of the Studio Ghibli Forever season, a complete retrospective of the animation house's work, which includes Only Yesterday, a first-ever English language dub of the 1991 film, that has been produced to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the studio's masterpiece, featuring the voices of Daisy Ridley (Star Wars: The Force Awakens) and Dev Patel (Slumdog Millionaire). Only Yesterday will be in UK cinemas for the first time this Friday 3rd June.
The Studio Ghibli Forever season will run until July 28th.
Colour Palettes by Roxy Radulescu of Movies In Color: www.moviesincolor.com
Castle in the Sky
The palette for this still from Castle in the Sky shows a versatile way to paint a night scene. The purple and blue hues are inviting but suggest depth, action and contrast nicely with the characters’ faces. The overall palette communicates night-time without overusing dark colors and blends purple hues effortlessly.
When Marnie Was There
Natural settings are highlighted in both palettes for When Marnie Was There. Each still’s location is vibrantly represented. From the yellows and bright greens in the forest to the bright blues and turquoises of the seascape, there is a clear intention to let the environment take centre stage.
Only Yesterday
This still from Only Yesterday captures a mood through its use of colour. The peaceful and beautiful setting is achieved by combining mostly blues, greens, and yellows in both the field and the sky, unifying the frame and reflecting a sense of peace.
Ponyo
One of the more boldly colourful and childlike films, Ponyo masterfully combines a multitude of bright colors fitting for its universe. There is also an inherent softness to the colors that helps them all blend together, despite their boldness.
Princess Mononoke
Based on primary colors, this still from Princess Mononoke feels bold and eye-catching. By putting the character of San front and centre and setting a mood with the fiery bold background, this still effectively communicates emotion through its palette.
Spirited Away
Spirited Away carefully combines dark and light hues and a contrast of colors to tell its story. The interior of the train feels cold and foreboding and uses darker tones of bright colors (reds, purples) to give the audience a sense of the unusual. The outside is vibrant and clear, using blue to create a peaceful and bright atmosphere.
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