Studio Ghibli has been hailed as one of the most important names in the anime industry for many decades. Their movies perfectly blend moving stories, charming characters, and stunning animation. The world of anime would not be the same without the unforgettable adventures that the talented artists of this beloved studio have gifted audiences.
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of one of their best films, Kiki’s Delivery Service, Studio Ghibli has teamed up with the creator of the incredible Spy x Family franchise, Tatsuya Endo. The author of Anya’s adventures uploaded an illustration of the titular witch flying on her broom, in his unique art style, causing much joy among fans.
Tatsuya Endo Gave Kiki an Amazing Makeover
The Famous Witch Looks Like a Character From Spy X Family
To commemorate the 40th anniversary of the release of Studio Ghibli’s Kiki Delivery Service, a collaboration with celebrated author Tatsuya Endo will be released. The celebration will take place this coming January 25, 2025, and the picture will be included on the cover of the February edition of the Fukuinkan Bunko magazine. Nevertheless, the illustration has already been shared on social media, accompanied by a special message from Anya’s creator. At the center of it, the titular Kiki can be seen, flying on her broom accompanied by her cat familiar, Jiji.
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The art style for this picture is undeniably Endo’s, with the witch looking as if she came from the fictional nation of Westalis. Her features resemble Anya’s, with an endearing smile, bright round eyes, and a small and pointy nose. The moon follows Kiki and Jiji on their flight over the city of Koriko, the location for a large portion of the film. Endo’s message explains how grateful and honored he feels for being considered the right artist for this special occasion. The author also commented on his previous works with witches, referring to his previous manga from which he took inspiration to create Anya.
Kiki’s Delivery Service Is One of Ghibli’s Classics
A Powerful Movie About Growing and Letting Go
Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, widely recognized as one of the best anime directors of all time, Kiki’s Delivery Service tells the story of the titular witch. As expected of her, she leaves her house with nothing but her mother’s broom and her familiar cat, Jiji, to embark on an adventure to find her purpose. Destiny takes her to Koriko city, where she meets a couple of bakers, Osono and her husband, who allow her to stay with them. Kiki opens a delivery service that makes her travel across the town and its surroundings.
Nevertheless, being away from home, without her family, and in a completely new location, causes Kiki to begin to wonder what she wants in life. The movie is a beautiful allegory about growing up and leaving behind the tenderness of childhood. It is regarded by many Ghibli fans as one of the most emotional and comforting films of the studio. It is by far one of the most significant anime movies of all time. Endo’s incredible illustration is a magnificent way to celebrate the 40th anniversary of such a revolutionary film.
While not something fans might have seen coming, the collaboration between Studio Ghibli and Spy x Family’s author is an amazing way to start 2025. This piece will be remembered fondly by fans of the incredible Kiki’s Delivery Service and might give Anya’s fans the motivation they need to give this heartwarming movie a chance.
Source: @_tatsuyaendo_ (X)
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Kiki's Delivery Service is a coming-of-age fantasy film that follows 13-year-old witch Kiki, who sets out on her own to find her place in the world and develops a delivery service in a new town.
Release Date July 29, 1989
Runtime 103 Minutes
Cast Minami Takayama , Rei Sakuma , Kappei Yamaguchi , Keiko Toda , Mieko Nobusawa
Studio(s) Studio Ghibli , Nibariki , Studio Fuga , Tokuma Shoten , Nippon Television Network Corporation