Studio Ghibli

*** Broadcast as part 4 Extra's The Stories of Studio Ghibli season.

Ellen E Jones and Mark Kermode waltz into the magical world of Studio Ghibli, founded in 1985, as the animation giant celebrates its 40th birthday.

Ellen speaks to the film, TV and video game critic Kambole Campbell about Studio Ghibli's origin story and key aspects of visual style.

And the animator and co-founder of Irish animation studio Cartoon Saloon, Nora Twomey discusses the emotional impact of films like My Neighbour Totoro and Grave of the Fireflies.

Mark meets actor Emily Mortimer, who discusses the process of re-dubbing for the film, Howl's Moving Castle.

And the animator and director, Michaël Dudok de Wit discusses the collaborative relationship forged with Studio Ghibli while working on his feature length production The Red Turtle.

Producer: Mae-Li Evans

A Prospect Street production for BBC Radio 4, first broadcast in April 2025.