The Secret World of Arrietty (借りぐらしのアリエッティ) is considered one of Studio Ghibli’s most beautiful productions, offering a warm and magical story about a tiny world living beside us unseen. The film was released in 2010 and is adapted from the novel The Borrowers by Mary Norton, directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi under the supervision of Hayao Miyazaki.
Plot Summary
The story revolves around Arrietty, a small girl from the “Borrowers,” who secretly live in houses and take the small things they need to survive. Arrietty lives with her family in a huge house and begins a friendship with a human boy named Shawn, who discovers their existence and tries to help them. The film unfolds between two different worlds and highlights themes of friendship, trust, and caution against dangers.
Main Themes
| Theme | Manifestations in the Film |
|---|---|
| Unknown World | Exploring the hidden life of people we do not see. |
| Friendship and Understanding | Overcoming differences between humans and Borrowers. |
| Survival and Adaptation | Daily challenges for small creatures in a big world. |
| Caution and Dangers | Facing threats from humans and the outside world. |
Visual and Sound Aesthetics
Detailed designs and attention to detail highlight the tiny world with its huge landscapes and daily tools.
Soft and natural colors create a warm and dreamy atmosphere.
Serena Shimuzu’s music enhances feelings of nostalgia and calm.
Production and Reception
The film achieved great critical and popular success, considered a strong comeback for Studio Ghibli in telling quiet stories that touch on nature and humanity with a magical touch. The artistic cinematography and detailed daily life from a small perspective were highly praised.
Why Watch It Now?
To experience a story full of warmth and sweetness.
To discover a hidden world full of wonders inside our homes.
To enjoy the precise and expressive drawings of Studio Ghibli.