Film and TV

Latest Film and TV series reviews and news. Looking for the best film and TV series to watch? Whether you fancy a classic film or the best things to watch on Netflix, you’ve come to the right place.

Stephanie Mulholland 10th November 2022

Top 12 things to binge watch on Netflix UK in Autumn 2022

Looking for TV series and films to binge watch on Netflix UK in Autumn 2022?

It looks like another impressive season for Netflix UK this Autumn, with new releases and fan favourites aplenty.

Known for their binge-worthy TV series and film, you cannot help but fall down a Netflix rabbit hole.

Luckiest Girl Alive | what to binge watch on Netflix UK in Autumn 2022.

Luckiest Girl Alive

Film (2022) – Mystery | Drama | Thriller

A soon to be married writer (Mila Kunis) is haunted after being sexually assaulted as a teenager alongside a mass shooting at her former high school.

As she prepares to wed, she must face the past to move into her future.

The film is based on the best-selling novel of the same name.

Watch Luckiest Girl Alive on Netflix.

Content warning: Depicts rape, school shooting and PTSD

Jeffrey Dahmer Monster | what to binge watch on Netflix UK in Autumn 2022.

DAHMER – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story

TV series (2022) Drama | True Crime

In this harrowing (somewhat) biographical drama, the crimes and human torment of serial killer, Jeffrey Dahmer (Evan Peters), are brought to life from his victims’ perspectives.

Watch DAHMER – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story on Netflix.

Content warning: Graphic violence

The Watcher | what to binge watch on Netflix UK in Autumn 2022.

The Watcher

TV series (2022) Mystery | Drama | Thriller

The Broaddus family move into a suburban dream home, but everything is not quite as it seems.

Before long, strange neighbours, ominous letters and sinister threats arise and they quickly find themselves living within a nightmare. Just how far will this stalker go?

Watch The Watcher on Netflix.

Love Is Blind | what to binge watch on Netflix UK in Autumn 2022.

Love is Blind

TV series (2022) Romance | Drama

In Love is Blind Season 3, singles sign up for an unconventional approach to modern dating in this social experiment.

They blindly date in pods, not seeing one another until they agree to an engagement. Couples must then enter the real world.

They face the challenges of each other’s homes, way of life and friends of family before deciding to commit on their wedding day.

Watch Love is Blind on Netflix.

From Scratch | what to binge watch on Netflix UK in Autumn 2022.

From Scratch

TV series (2022) Romance | Drama

Amy (Zoe Saldana) is an American artist studying abroad in Sicily, Italy. In finding herself, she also finds romance with a local chef.

Amy will face a life-changing journey of love, loss, resilience and hope across different cultures and continents.

The film is based on the best-selling Tembi Locke memoir of the same name.

Watch From Scratch on Netflix.

Heartbreak High

TV series (2022) Teen | Drama

A group of Aussie teens from Hartley High School navigate love, sex and heartbreak in this Gen-Z reboot.

Lead Amerie (Ayesha Madon) must fix her reputation with newfound friends after a wall mural illustrating the entire school’s sex-capades is discovered.

Watch Heartbreak High on Netflix.

Content warning: Depicts sexual assault

Cabinet of Curiosities | what to binge watch on Netflix UK in Autumn 2022.

Cabinet of Curiosities

TV series (2022) Horror | Mystery

Discover Guillermo del Toro’s curated collection of sophisticated, spine-tingling and genre-defying stories.

In Cabinet of Curiosities, eight stories come to life that will challenge your perception of horror.

Watch Cabinet of Curiosities on Netflix.

Mr Harrigan's Phone | Netflix

Mr Harrigan’s Phone

Film (2022) Supernatural | Horror | Drama

Craig (Jaeden Martell) is a young boy who lives in a small and somewhat boring town. He befriends and develops an unlikely bond with Mr. Harrigan (Donald Sutherland), an old and reclusive billionaire.

However, when Mr. Harrigan sadly passes, Craig discovers he can still communicate with his dear friend from beyond the grave via his iPhone.

The film is based on the best-selling Stephen King novel of the same name.

Watch Mr Harrigan’s Phone on Netflix.

High Water | Netflix

High Water

TV series (2022) Drama

In 1997, scientists and local government officials rush to make life-and-death decisions when a flood threatens to destroy the city of Wrocław.

Together, they must come up with a solution to protect the city and its residents at all costs.

This TV series is based on true events.

Watch High Water on Netflix.

Fate : The Winx Saga | Netflix

Fate: The Winx Saga

TV series (2022) Teen | Action | Adventure

The fairies return to school under the militant authority of Alfea’s former Headmistress, Rosalind.

However, when fairies start to disappear, Bloom and her friends must think fast to protect the Otherworld from a new enemy and ultimately, devastation.

Watch Fate: The Winx Saga on Netflix.

The 5th Wave

Film (2016) Action | Adventure | Sci-Fi

After four catastrophic waves of destruction hit the Earth, teenager Cassie (Chloë Moretz) is left in a wasteland.

Desperately searching for her brother while awaiting the fifth and final wave, she cautiously works alongside a stranger hoping to find him.

Watch The 5th Wave on Netflix.

Devil in Ohio | Netflix

Devil in Ohio

TV series (2022) Drama | Horror | Mystery

Teenager Mae is left traumatised in hospital after escaping a satanic cult.

After receiving care, Mae temporarily moves in with her psychiatrist and family. It isn’t long before the family starts to get suspicious of Mae’s peculiar behaviour when strange things start happening.

Watch Devil in Ohio on Netflix

Which of these TV series and films will you watch on Netflix UK in Autumn 2022?

Stephanie xox

Looking for more films and TV series recommendations?

Stephanie Mulholland 24th October 2021

Six TV survival series and films to watch if you loved Squid Game

Squid Game has taken the world by storm. This gripping Korean drama has become a pop-culture hit, with critics and viewers celebrating it in their masses.

For those who haven’t seen it, Squid Game invites hundreds of cash-strapped contestants to compete in a series of children’s games for a life-changing cash prize, with some deadly stakes.

So, if survival and/or post-apocalyptic TV series and films take your fancy, you’ve come to the right place.

Why are we so obsessed with survival as a genre?

Portrayals of survivalism and its themes have been heavily influenced by wartime, nuclear weapons races and political discord. The genre highlights the moral panic of societal collapse and offers social commentary on important issues.

It is so gripping in many cases because it is believable. Outside of fantasy themes such as zombies etc.

With the Coronavirus pandemic testing the world’s resolve, the appeal for dystopian survival shows has sky-rocketed.

Perhaps we’re empathetic with the loss of control we’ve had recently in our own lives. Perhaps shows like Squid Game temporarily make us feel that little bit better.

Alice in Borderland

Alice in Borderland is a Japanese sci-fi drama TV series that focuses on troubled gamer, Ryōhei Arisu.

Stumbling through life, Arisu and his two friends find themselves in an abandoned and unknown Tokyo.

To survive in this new world, the trio is forced to compete in a series of sadistic and lethal games.

Watch Alice in Borderland on Netflix

Battle Royale

The MVP of the survival-horror genre. This 2000 Japanese cult classic film paved the way for many survival films and TV series that followed.

Battle Royale sees a class of children sent to a deserted island by the Japanese government. Tired of the societal discord among youths, the group is forced to brutally fight to the death. The last one standing is free to leave.

Given essentials and various weapons, they must battle their way to victory. Meanwhile, an explosive collar is fitted around their neck to ensure no rules are broken and control is maintained.

Watch Battle Royale on Amazon Prime

Sweet Home

Sweet Home is a Korean horror drama TV series set in a post-apocalyptic world where survival is the only option.

Humans have begun to transform into monsters and the uninfected must work together in order to survive.

The main character, Cha Hyun-soo, lethally works alongside his neighbours to keep each other safe for as long as humanly possible.

Watch Sweet Home on Netflix

3%

3% is a Brazilian thriller TV series detailing a fascinating tale of elitism in a dystopian world. Candidates from the impoverished ‘inland’ face a process of elimination to gain access to the utopian ‘offshore’ island – those who succeed, are the lucky and worthy 3%.

The story follows protagonist Michele Satana as she makes her way through ‘the process’. She believes its head has murdered her brother. Working alongside the revolutionary party ‘the cause’, she aims to destroy the unfair and immoral process from within in vengeance.

Japan Sinks: 2020

Japan Sinks: 2020 is a dark Japanese anime TV series a family’s humanity and resolve is tested after a series of devastating earthquakes ravage Japan.

This heartwrenching story follows them as they use their wits and determination to survive the sinking archipelago and regain a sense of humanity in the madness.

Watch Japan Sinks on Netflix

Snowpiercer

Snowpiercer is a US sci-fi TV series that explores social inequality in a post-apocalyptic world.

The Earth is frozen and the last surviving humans live aboard a giant train that circles the world. However, with classism thrown into the mix, the struggle to coexist worsens with some harrowing consequences.

Watch Snowpiercer on Netflix

Have you watched Squid Game yet – what did you think of it?

Stephanie xox

Stephanie Mulholland 20th January 2020

21 Studio Ghibli films are coming to Netflix UK in 2020

Studio Ghibli to stream in the UK

It’s happening. It is really happening. From February 2020, the majority of Studio Ghibli films will start to be available to stream in the UK. In essence, we have Netflix UK to thank.

Growing up, I remember the joy of finding Studio Ghibli films randomly on Film4. The channel would regularly have entire seasons dedicated to the Japanese animation studio. They even screened My Neighbor Totoro at the Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House.

Most importantly, 21 films from the Japanese animation giant will be available on the Netflix UK from February to April 2020.

Surprisingly, the streaming service will include fan favourite animations such as Oscar-winning Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke, Howl’s Moving Castle and My Neighbor Totoro.

When will the Studio Ghibli films stream in the UK?

Release dates and titles on Netflix UK include:

February 1, 2020

Laputa: Castle in the Sky (1986)
My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)
Only Yesterday (1991)
Porco Rosso (1992)
Ocean Waves (1993)
Tales from Earthsea (2006)

March 1, 2020

Nausicaä of the Valley Wind (1984)
Princess Mononoke (1997)
My Neighbors the Yamadas (1999)
Spirited Away (2001)
The Cat Returns (2002)
Arriety (2010)
The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013)

April 1, 2020

Pom Poko (1994)
Whisper of the Heart (1995)
Howls Moving Castle (2004)
Ponyo (2008)
From Up on Poppy Hill (2011)
The Wind Rises (2013)
When Marnie Was There (2014)

The only feature-length film excluded from the stellar line-up is infamous tear-jerker, Grave of Fireflies.

Unfortunately, these films will not be available to stream on Netflix in USA, Canada or Japan.

What is your favourite Studio Ghibli film? Which are you most looking forward to watching?

Stephanie xox

Hungry for more? Take a read of Why Studio Ghibli is better than Disney.

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Stephanie Mulholland 8th May 2018

Top 10 TV series to binge watch on Netflix UK in 2018

Discover The Top 10 TV series to binge watch on Netflix UK in 2018

It has to be said, Netflix UK have been doing the country proud of late, with an incredible selection of binge-worthy TV series sourced from across the globe. No matter what you are into, you will certainly find something to spend hours transfixed on. Flicking through can be an arduous task, so here are the top 10 TV series to binge watch on Netflix UK in 2018.

Black Mirror

From the critically-acclaimed genius of Charlie Brooker, the anthology series Black Mirror was brought to Netflix exclusively from series 3, with Netflix UK currently hosting all seasons. This fictitious and fascinating TV series looks at the world from an entirely cynical and satirical perspective. Each disturbing episode works as a standalone piece, looking at the evolution of society, our relationships with others and technological advancements. Its futuristic nature cautions us with ongoing depictions of the worst case scenario in each dystopian episode, highlighting the ultimately negative effects that we and our technology have had on the world as we know it. Black Mirror will not fail to suck you in with its plausible tales and will certainly make you think twice about your actual and virtual relationships.

The release date for the fifth season has not yet been announced.

Genres: sci-fi / satire/ utopian and dystopian fiction / psychological thriller / anthology series
Seasons: 4

The Sinner

The Sinner is a slow burner but for good reason, throwing you in with an unexplained public murder within the first episode and leaving you utterly perplexed until the last. The first season follows the story of a depressed Cora Tannetti (Jessica Biel) who although satisfied with her husband and child, seems unfulfilled and detached in her mundane life. After committing murder on a family day at the beach, she is thrust behind bars with no indication as to why she has committed this heinous act on a total stranger. With psychological analysis and persistence, her haunting past comes back to life piece-by-piece in this oh so clever and thrilling psychological drama.

The release date for the second season has not yet been announced.

Genres: psychological thriller / crime drama / mystery
Seasons: 1

Bates Motel

Bates Motel is the contemporary prequel to the infamous story of Norman Bates (Freddie Highmore) in Psycho and his downright creepy relationship with his mother, Norma (Vera Farmiga). Looking at Norman’s adolescence, this series shows this almost charming young man’s slow descent into psychosis as we meander through the trials and tribulations of his life – his mother never too far away. His delicate mental state ensures this teenage journey is no ordinary one, thrusting the characters within down a violent and dangerous path. Who will make it out of the other side?

Genres: psychological thriller / drama / mystery
Seasons: 5

13 Reasons Why

As infamous as it is famed, 13 Reasons Why emulates the horrors of bullying, depression and suicide. Following the aftermath of school girl Hannah Baker’s (Katherine Langford) untimely death, Hannah leaves tapes depicting the 13 reasons why she chose to commit suicide. These are to be listened to in turn by all the people who had wronged her. Her closest friend, Clay (Dylan Minnette) is handed these tapes last. 13 Reasons Why follows Clay as he listens to each in turn, addressing and coming to terms with each and every person involved in her tragic decision. This gripping drama highlights key issues facing many teenagers across the world and acts as a wake up call to those who choose to bully.

The second season is to be released on the 18th of May, 2018.

Genre: teen drama / mystery
Seasons: 1

Gilmore Girls

If you’re looking for some feel-good watching, look no further than Gilmore Girls. Following the life of single mother Lorelai (Lauren Graham) and daughter Rory Gilmore (Alexis Bledel) in the sleepy hamlet of Stars Hollow, you’ll soon become immersed in their lives. Watch an ambitious Rory grow from adolescence into adulthood as her dreams for the future come to fruition with the love, support and downright persistence of her somewhat overbearing-yet-loveable mother, Lorelai. The show is packed with relatable moments and sheer wit. Although it’s an older TV series, this pop-culture US classic will not fail to steal your heart – and hours upon hours of your time.

Be sure to watch the Netflix exclusive Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life Of once your finished binging all seven seasons.

Genre: comedy / teen drama
Seasons: 7

American Horror Story

American Horror Story offers fans a unique adventure into the spooky, strange and mysterious. In this horror anthology series, each season follows a distinct tale, often in a different period of time and with a somewhat refreshed cast. Throughout the series, you will come face-to-face with a host of killers, ghosts, aliens, witches, clowns and vampires to name but a few. You will put yourself in the protagonists-come-victims shoes as each creepy tale develops with a roller-coaster of twists-and-turns before coming to a penultimate conclusion. Interestingly, each season is connected in some way. So keep your eyes peeled as you binge to join together the dots.

The release date for the eighth season has not yet been announced.

Genre: horror / drama / supernatural / anthology series
Seasons: 7

Stranger Things

Stranger Things follows the lives of a group of downright nerdy kids in the 80s. When one of their friends go missing, the group are thrust into a world of supernatural forces, secret government experiments and are to meet a very odd little girl indeed. They must find their friend and in turn come face-to-face with their worst nightmares in an alternate world known as the Upside Down. Can it all work out in the end in this beloved sci-fi hit?

The release date for the third season has not yet been announced.

Genre: sci-fi / horror / supernatural / period drama
Seasons: 2

The End of the F***ing World

Become immersed in the dysfunctional world of James (Alex Lawther), a UK school boy who is convinced that he is a psychopath in The End of the F***ing World. Following his inner monologue throughout, he targets new girl Alyssa (Jessica Barden) as his next victim who soon forces him into a romance with her rebellious nature. This quirky dynamic duo run away together, causing far too much trouble along the way as they grow closer on their road trip. However, their criminal spree cannot last forever and the pair have to face up to reality quickly in this coming-of-age drama fest.

The release date for the second season has not yet been announced.

Genre: dark comedy / teen drama
Seasons: 1

Orange is the New Black

Orange is the New Black follows the story of privileged Piper Chapman (Taylor Schilling) who ends up in a women’s prison when a crime from her youth catches up with her – and gosh is she out of her depth. This fascinating show demonstrates the reality of just how difficult and life changing a stint in prison can be. It follows a breadth of characters with a clever series of developmental stories and flashback tales to understand each backstory. In no time, you will be sucked into the inmates world at Litchfield Penitentiary prison. It also tackles modern problems in the current prison system such as overcrowding, funding cuts, corruption, drug smuggling and violence.

The release date for the sixth season has not yet been announced.

Genre: comedy / drama
Seasons: 5

3%

Although badly dubbed, 3% is a fascinating tale of elitism in a dystopian world. Hordes of people from the impoverished ‘inland’ face a process of elimination in order to gain access to the fabled ‘offshore’ island – those who succeed, are the lucky and worthy 3%. The story follows protagonist Michele Satana (Biana Comparato) as she makes her way through the process in a hope to kill the head of it whom she believes has murdered her brother. Supported by revolutionary party, ‘the cause’, she aims to destroy this unfair and immoral process from within in vengeance. These lucky candidates who pass the process are promised a life of bliss within this utopia, but is the grass always greener on the other side?

Genre: sci-fi / drama / thriller
Seasons: 2

It would seem the US is doing us Brits proud when it comes to fantastic TV this year and with this list, you are pretty much sorted for summertime watching on Netflix UK.

Whatever your mood, put one of the top 10 TV series to binge watch on Netflix UK in 2018 and enjoy a long and lazy evening in.

Which of these TV series have you watched? Which would be your first pick on this list?

Stephanie xox

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Stephanie Mulholland 5th March 2018

I, Tonya: A film of fact or fiction? ⛸️

I, Tonya film review

As soon as I saw the trailer, I knew I had to see I, Tonya. The biopic, starring Margot Robbie as the lead protagonist tells the tale of famed and shamed 1990s US figure skater, Tonya Harding.

Full of angst and passion, the chronological story details the interviewed accounts of Tonya, her abusive partner Jeff Gillooly (Sebastian Stan), and downright distant mother LaVona Golden (Allison Janney) in her early life as a competitive figure skater.

From start to finish, this controversial journey, and these relationships are raw and full of emotion. The tale is relatable, as we watch Tonya chasing her dreams relentlessly, despite her socio-economic status, unkempt style, and brash attitude constantly hindering her progression in a sport known for its grace and even snobbery.

As an impoverished woman from a broken home, the odds are against her. With fame comes a media storm, tearing her apart at any given opportunity and pitting her against her rivals, particularly fellow US figure skater, Nancy Kerrigan. Surprisingly, Tonya was quite the success and the first ever US figure skater to land a triple axel in competition.

So, what did I think of I, Tonya?

Within the film, a plot is hatched by Tonya’s partner, Jeff, to rid Tonya of her competition, aiming to scare Nancy with death threats so that she will not continue to compete. However, things take a turn for the worst when Nancy is indeed injured quite dramatically in an orchestrated attack.

To this day, Tonya’s prior knowledge of this scheme is still debated and the actual Tonya heavily rebuffed these accusations until recently in the ABC documentary, Truth and Lies: The Tonya Harding Story.

However, the film encourages an alternative viewpoint to the infamous scandal in the early 90s, that makes the audience sympathise with Tonya throughout. The scandal thwarts Tonya’s future and ultimately leaves her disgraced and ousted in the world of competitive figure skating. Fact.

I, Tonya ensures a degree of genuine emotion and leaves the audience bitter as the angsty and passionate Tonya continues to give it her all, despite the world seemingly being out to get her. Throughout, the film leaves us rooting for Tonya, an impoverished, misunderstood and talented woman that perhaps just deserved a little bit more from life. The reality of the real-life events and Tonya’s responsibility is for you to decide.

Have you seen I, Tonya yet? What do you think of Margot Robbie as Tonya?

Stephanie xox

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Stephanie Mulholland 28th August 2017

My Neighbor Totoro, Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House

My Neighbor Totoro, Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House, Courtyard | The LDN Gal

My Neighbor Totoro review with Film4 at Somerset house

In case you have not already guessed, I am a massive Studio Ghibli fan and have been since childhood. So, you can imagine my excitement when Film4 announced their Summer Screen 2017 series at Somerset House and My Neighbor Totoro was a featuring film.

The Film4 Summer Screen experience is something I have also been longing to do for a while now. It can be notoriously difficult to get tickets at times but thankfully I nabbed two for the screening of My Neighbor Totoro on Sunday, August 20, 2017.

Of course, like most people who visit Somerset House for the two-week summertime event, I had already seen the film. However, the appeal of the event is that it is an open screening in the famed courtyard. An event where you snuggle down with food and drink and take advantage of the giant screen within.

Saying this, as it was summer, I had been optimistic that the heavens would not open. However, this being England, they did just that.

With a £2 plastic rain mac in tow, we prepared for a night of childhood memories and torrential rain. I must admit, I adore My Neighbor Totoro (it is one of my Studio Ghibli favourites) but even I was a bit miffed at the weather – they do pre-warn though, the show must go on despite the weather.

My Neighbor Totoro, Studio Ghibli, Film, Umbrella Scene, Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House | The LDN Gal

My Neighbor Totoro Film, Umbrella Scene, Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House | The LDN Gal

The Film4 Summer Screen Experience

Even with the rain hopping upon me for pretty much the duration of the film, as soon as Totoro popped onto the screen I was delighted and entranced, especially when he shared my pain in the beloved umbrella scene at the bus stop – laughs ensued and the mood brightened.

I would recommend the Film4 Summer Screen event to anyone. It is a unique experience in one of the most historical courtyards in London. A perfect date-night or birthday treat (August baby you see).

I would warn you to prepare for the elements, think cushions, something to lean on, a rain mac and lots of snacks. Thankfully, a kind steward took pity on me and gave me a blanket.

Overall, I would return despite the weather, spending the latter half of the film standing to watch to avoid the downpour. Somerset House offers a magical experience, be it the Film4 Summer Screen or skating upon the ice rink at Christmas time.

The Film4 Summer Screen 2017 has now concluded. Tickets will go on sale for next years event in Spring 2018.

Have you been to the Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House? What is your favourtie childhood film?

Stephanie xox

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Stephanie Mulholland 19th February 2017

Why Studio Ghibli is better than Disney

The great animation debate: Studio Ghibli versus Disney

Disney is a universal brand, a timeless reflection back to our youth. It is brimming with fond memories of cinema trips and cosy nights in with the family. Tales of traditionally ‘perfect’ Princesses, talking animals and sing-along-songs. The companies ability to hold a special place in the hearts of each generation for almost a century is admirable. So, why is Studio Ghibli, the Japanese counterpart for the East, so much more?

For those who do not know of Studio Ghibli, it was founded in 1985, around 62 years after its fair-to-say rival, Disney. The Japanese company has created over 20 beautiful animated feature films to date, with their own array of wonderfully crafted heroes and heroines.

The two animation giants undoubtedly share similar traits, their work is utterly timeless and adored globally. However, it is a belief shared by many that the East began to take over the West when it came to quality animation, and there are a fair few reasons why Studio Ghibli will always surpass Disney.

Growing up, I watched both Disney and Studio Ghibli films, and the latter continues to move me as I edge towards my mid-twenties (a scary prospect). The heart of Studio Ghibli stems from its animation team, especially from the creative brain of the former lead director, Hayao Miyazaki, who created something with a far deeper moralistic and feminist meaning.

Why are strong female leads so important in animation?

Like many, I found myself learning far more from Studio Ghibli, with their tales of female struggle and empowerment (most films tend to have a strong female lead). Unlike the Disney Princesses, the heroines are relatable without the patronising undertone and the magic and depth of their fantasy tales awakens the attention of adults, as well as presenting important moral dilemmas and messages for children watching.

Looking at the female leads in Disney films (predominantly the Disney Princesses) in comparison to those in Studio Ghibli, a striking difference will continuously manifest itself. Time and time again in Disney, it will be seen that these princesses are overtly defenceless without the men in their lives to rescue them (Mulan, Merida and the new Princess Moana being the few exceptions).

Compare this to Studio Ghibli, and you will find feminist icons in abundance, the majority of Ghibli films have an admirable and strong female lead. Miyazaki says:

“Many of my movies have strong female leads – brave, self-sufficient girls that don’t think twice about fighting for what they believe in with all their heart. They’ll need a friend, or a supporter, but never a savior. Any woman is just as capable of being a hero as any man.”

Not relying on a man (or anyone for that matter) is a recurring theme, everyone is seen as equal in the gender Olympic’s and this is just wonderful for the self-esteem of a small child, who doesn’t love feeling empowered and equal?

Why is female empowerment needed in animation?

An example of utter reliance on men is presented to us in The Little Mermaid (Disney). Our leading mermaid, Ariel, plays centre-stage under the sea, she is beautiful, feisty and terribly naïve. Of course, she falls head-over-heels for the ‘wrong’ guy in the opinion of her father, whom she then desperately seeks out upon the land in exchange for her voice. He notices her, but not enough to avoid being bewitched and ensnared by a witch. Says it all but a happy ending is guaranteed, this is Disney.

Compare this with female protagonist Sophie of Howl’s Moving Castle (Studio Ghibli), and you are presented with a self-conscious wallflower.

Sophie is plain and unnoticed, obviously reinforced as viewers see that even her own mother fails to realise her transformation from a young girl into a twisted hag. This ordinary girl, no ‘beauty’ on her side, must seek out a wizard whose attention she had caught in her youthful state. Sophie cannot speak a word to anyone about the curse and therefore must lurk around until she can figure out how to break it herself, while her wizarding companion is on a quest to find himself also.

There is far more depth to Sophie, she’s opinionated, brash and stern (probably something to do with the aged state and being utterly fed up). Whereas Ariel is presented as emotionally motivated and stroppy, only seeking her happiness as an end goal and caring little for the loss of those around her (particularly her somewhat overbearing father who is terrified about her disappearance). On the other hand, Sophie seeks to help all those around her, she is a complex character whose love and compassion motivates her throughout, perhaps even at her own expense and happiness at times.

The problem with Disney is that helplessness, ‘love’ and beauty define the Princesses. With Studio Ghibli, beauty isn’t key, the female leads are admired for their strength, journey, and powerful hearts. It is a stark and reoccurring difference, just select any Disney or Studio Ghibli film.

Some critics argue that Studio Ghibli films exploit these young heroines. However, It would seem that the consensus argues that Ghibli, in fact, challenges girls to solve their own problems. Saying this, modern Disney appears to have approached this too with ‘stronger’ characters such as Mulan and Merida, to name a few. In contrast, Studio Ghibli has been doing this with his characters since day one, in a culture often perplexed by such dominating female empowerment.

Another perk is that Studio Ghibli animations provide far more cultural exploration for us Westerners and prove themselves to be culturally apt. Whereas Disney often fails to truly embrace the cultures of their Princesses in their locality.

Often you will hear of Disneyland being the ‘most magical place on earth’, its stories the basis for this magic. I argue that Studio Ghibli offers far more magic, it teaches us to be kind, to not judge, to respect and cherish our environment (nature being of great religious importance to the Japanese), that pacifism can work and childhood transitioning is tough, no one can save you from it but you.

Their stories are creative, with complex and challenging storylines, developed and iconic characters, heart-warming and meaningful messages, embellished with beautiful animation. Studio Ghibli will remain timeless to its audience, holding many an animated heart for a lifetime with their emotion invoking work. The core and important message will stay the same, despite your gender, appearance, size or background, you can achieve anything you want to, and this is why Studio Ghibli will always surpass Disney.

Does your heart remain with Disney or Studio Ghibli? What is your favourite Ghibli film?

Stephanie xox

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