Netflix has made a major move to expand its reach internationally. The streaming service snagged the exclusive streaming rights to Studio Ghibli films, allowing them to stream the films in every market except in North America and Japan. The deal marks the first time all 21 Studio Ghibli films can be streamed globally.
“This is a dream come true for Netflix and millions of our members,” said Aram Yacoubian, Netflix’s director of original animation. “Studio Ghibli’s animated films are legendary and have enthralled fans around the world for over 35 years. We’re excited to make them available in more languages across Latin America, Europe, Africa and Asia — so that more people can enjoy this whimsical and wonderful world of animation.”
While the acquisition bodes well for Netflix internationally, it’s also a big move in the streaming wars. In October, HBO Max announced they had secured the U.S. streaming rights for Studio Ghibli. The landmark deal for the 21 Studio Ghibli feature films marked the first time these beloved films were licensed to a streaming platform.
Premiering when the service launches in May will be the Academy Award-winning “Spirited Away,” “My Neighbor Totoro,” “Princess Mononoke,” “Howl’s Moving Castle,” “Kiki’s Delivery Service,” “Ponyo,” “Castle in the Sky,” “The Tale of The Princess Kaguya” and more.
Studio Ghibli was launched in 1985 by animation directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata. The studio “has become world-renowned for its original animated stories of fantastical worlds and epic sagas centered on heart-warming protagonists. Studio Ghibli’s films have received six Oscar nominations in the animated feature category, winning one in 2003 for Spirited Away,” according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Photo credit: Studio Ghibli