Studio Ghibli’s timeless classics return to Southeast Asia
A new chapter for Studio Ghibli in Southeast Asia
In a significant move for animation enthusiasts, mm2 Entertainment has inked a five-year distribution deal with the legendary Studio Ghibli. This partnership promises to reintroduce the studio’s beloved films to audiences across Southeast Asia, including Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Cambodia.
A treasure trove of animated masterpieces
The agreement covers 21 iconic Studio Ghibli titles, such as Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, and My Neighbor Totoro. These films, celebrated for their stunning artistry and profound storytelling, will soon grace the big screens once again, offering both nostalgic experiences for long-time fans and fresh adventures for new viewers.
Strategic distribution through mm2 Asia
mm2 Asia, the parent company of mm2 Entertainment, operates several cinema chains in Singapore and Malaysia. This strategic advantage ensures that the films will reach a broad audience, maximizing their impact. The first wave of Studio Ghibli releases under this new agreement is expected to hit theaters later this year.
Studio Ghibli’s recent accolades and exhibitions
Studio Ghibli’s influence continues to grow globally. Recently, the studio was honored with the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Additionally, ”The World of Studio Ghibli” exhibition is set to open at Singapore’s ArtScience Museum, offering fans an immersive experience into the magical worlds created by the studio.
A look at Studio Ghibli’s success in China
The Southeast Asian releases follow Studio Ghibli’s successful debut in China. Films like My Neighbor Totoro and Ponyo saw significant box office success years after their original releases. Notably, Spirited Away outperformed Toy Story 4 during its opening weekend in China. More recently, China became the largest market for Studio Ghibli’s latest film, The Boy and the Heron.
Voices from the industry
Chang Long Jong, group CEO of mm2 Asia, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “Studio Ghibli’s films are renowned worldwide for their artistry, storytelling, and emotional resonance. This collaboration allows us to bring these beloved classics to Southeast Asian audiences, where they can be enjoyed on the big screen as intended. We are confident that this will introduce a new generation of fans to the world of Studio Ghibli.”
Junichi Nishioka, VP of PR, curation, and archive, international distribution at Studio Ghibli, shared his thoughts: ”Many visitors from Southeast Asia come to the Ghibli Museum, Mitaka, and Ghibli Park every day. Recently, Miyazaki Hayao received the prestigious Magsaysay Award. We feel that our films are being enjoyed by a much larger number of Asian people than before. I am very happy that this opportunity will help bring our works to even more people, and to the children who will be born in the future.”
The enduring legacy of Studio Ghibli
Studio Ghibli’s films have left an indelible mark on the world of animation. Their unique blend of imaginative storytelling, intricate animation, and emotional depth continues to captivate audiences of all ages. This new distribution deal with mm2 Entertainment ensures that the magic of Studio Ghibli will continue to enchant viewers in Southeast Asia for years to come.
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