Step into the world of Studio Ghibli this September at Sudbury Indie Cinema.
The popular local festival, the third annual Studio Ghibli North, returns this September 12-14, bringing with it nine stunning films as well as plenty of local food and craft vendors to set you in the world of Ghibli.
Ahead of the festival, be on the look out in Sudbury’s green spaces for forest spirits, they may come bearing gifts (wink).
The festival has planted the iconic creatures known as Kodama from Princess Mononoke in the trails, beaches and parks of the city, each with a small freebie wrapped around their neck. Check Sudbury Indie Cinema’s social media for hints of where the spirits may be hiding.
Started in 2023 through community crowdfunding, Studio Ghibli North became an instant success with a sold-out opening show of Spirited Away (2001).
The hype continued in 2024 with both Spirited Away and the recent Academy Award winner The Boy and The Heron selling out the theatre.
Founded in 1985, Studio Ghibli’s films are world-renowned. Cherished for their stunning visuals and nuanced narratives, many of the films are considered classics.
Featured at this year’s festival, My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away and The Secret World of Arrietty are perfect family fare, with delicate and sincere portraits of the challenges of childhood. Less mainstream but beloved films like Grave of the Fireflies, The Wind Rises and My Neighbors The Yamadas will be featured at the festival for the first time.
The festival will include fan-favourite community vendors. Local business Kako’s Kitchen, a staple of the previous festivals, will be returning with authentic Japanese eats like onigiri, takoyaki and mochi.
All weekend festivalgoers can visit Kako’s Kitchen in the lobby in between films. To help get you decked out, popular crafters like Tsukino Creations, Vulture Printing and more will be selling anime-related merch.
Local cultural organizations such as Sudbury Japanese Language Learners will complete the atmosphere.
Tickets, as well as weekend and day passes, are now on sale online here.
Weekend passes are $60, day passes $35 and single tickets are $12.