Studio Ghibli Fest Continues to Capture Hearts Across Generations

In New York, the anticipation for Studio Ghibli Fest is a tradition for Amanda Mendoza VanCleave and her family. Each year, Amanda, her mother Araceli, and her 3-year-old daughter eagerly attend the Ghibli movie re-releases in theaters. Watching her daughter excitedly shout ‘Totoro!’ when the iconic logo appears is a cherished moment they share.

The family’s journey with Ghibli films started on HBO Max, but their visits to theaters in Austin, Texas, became a beloved ritual. They even donned matching Totoro pajamas for a recent screening of Hayao Miyazaki’s “My Neighbor Totoro.” Amanda, 34, remarks on how these outings have bonded the three generations of women as inseparable.

Ghibli fans are renowned for their passion. The consistency of Ghibli films being screened in cinemas, even years after their release, is unmatched in the movie industry. Annually, followers of all ages fill theaters to experience these animated masterpieces. Ghibli Fest, which spans June to October, is a phenomenon that adjusts its calendar like movie marathons of concert tours.

Launched in 2017 by GKids and Fathom Entertainment, Ghibli Fest saw impressive growth in ticket sales. Initial releases grossed $5 million, but revenues have increased since Ghibli titles debuted on HBO Max in 2020. GKids president Dave Jesteadt shares his surprise at the fest’s enduring appeal. Instead of a decline in interest, each year sees rising attendance and box office records.

In 2024, Ghibli Fest reached its peak with 14 films grossing $16.4 million. Last year, eight titles earned $10.6 million. This success is mirrored by Fathom Entertainment’s expansion of the festival’s footprint. According to Shannah Miller, Fathom’s vice president of marketing, its presence grew from 640 locations to over 1,100, with extended runs becoming necessary due to fan demand.

Initially, GKids brought Ghibli films to the U.S. through retrospectives in major markets. Ghibli Fest introduced the films to multiplexes, where they found a new audience eager for stories beyond Disney. David Jesteadt notes the importance of preserving classics by presenting them as ongoing cinematic celebrations, akin to new Hollywood releases.

With U.S. moviegoing up by over 10% this year, theaters look to older films like Ghibli’s to fill scheduling gaps. The festival has paved the way for fostering new Ghibli enthusiasts. What started with movies like Miyazaki’s 2001 “Spirited Away” now includes younger fans introduced via titles such as “Ponyo” or “Howl’s Moving Castle.”

Despite the streaming availability since 2020, GKids found that Ghibli films drew new audiences to theaters. “Tales of Earthsea,” “Only Yesterday,” the 40th anniversary of “Castle in the Sky,” a remastered “Princess Mononoke,” and the anniversary of “Spirited Away” are all part of this year’s lineup.

Though globally popular, Ghibli Fest remains a U.S. event. Shannah Miller expresses pride in the celebration countering fears of cinema’s decline. The influence of Ghibli is evident in exhibits, tours by composer Joe Hisaishi, and screenings that unite fans for immersive experiences.

Angela Lector, 27, has attended screenings in cosplay and connected with fellow fans. She notes that while home-viewing offers comfort, theater experiences foster community interactions. Her only wish is for even more titles, including “Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind,” to be featured in the fest.

Amanda Mendoza VanCleave’s recent encounter with another Ghibli enthusiast underscored the universal appeal of these films. After spotting a young girl wearing a bow like Kiki’s, Amanda invited them to see “Ponyo,” marking the child’s first theater experience and forging a new friendship.