Review of Kiki's Delivery Service (1989) by Bradleys — 20 Jun 2023

A nice coming of age story for pre-teen/young teen girls. Kiki is an interesting character and is well-voiced (in English dub) by Kirsten Dunst. Like many Ghibli films, it takes its time, which typically is a wise choice. Kiki not only battles a lack of confidence during the middle part of the movie, but perhaps depression, which is not commonly dealt with in kids' films and, to be honest, not really dealt with here -- she just experiences it and then overcomes it. But still, gives part of the film an interesting vibe. There also is an odd (intentionally?) funny scene where an elderly house servant is positively giddy win a dirigible crashes and Kiki has to save the day.

What I like most about this film (and many other Ghibli) is people's attitudes -- a young witch comes flying in to town and people, generally, are just warm & excited to see her; there is a guilelessness and friendliness which is nice to see.

The version I saw had the end changed back to the Japanese version, where the cat no longer speaks; it is subtle and apparently is meant to show Kiki is growing up. I don't think that makes sense, as she has gotten her witch powers back and being able to talk/relate to a cat is not established through the rest of the movie as Kiki being immature, but rather it's just a common thing a witch has (which makes sense; lore of familiars with witches is common). The cat talking would have been better.

But overall, a good movie to see, especially if you have 9-14 year old daughter/girl to see it with about making your way in the world and overcoming your fears.