Before featuring in the cult anime movie ‘Kiki’s Delivery Service‘ by Hayao Miyazaki, Kiki began her adventures as a literary character created by Eiko Kadono in 1985. Published by Fukuinkan Shoten Publishers, the fantasy novel became an instant bestseller, selling millions of copies worldwide. And then Miyazaki’s version took the animation world by storm, becoming the highest-grossing Japanese movie of 1989.
It was one of the first major success stories for Studio Ghibli that also fortified Miyazaki’s status as an exceptional animator. Over three decades later, Kiki is making an official comeback. The charming witch’s magical story is finally going to land on television in a live-action BBC adaptation. Read on to get all the details!
BBC’s New Project Draws From Eiko Kadono’s Literary Work
According to reports, the new global TV series will bring Kiki’s adventures back into the limelight and introduce a new generation to the quirky and endearing teenage witch who has been winning over hearts for decades. BBC Studios Kids & Family is heading the production.
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It will be in collaboration with the UK-based company Wheel in Motion and the legendary Japanese company Kadokawa Corporation. The series will cover the first volume of the six-part book series and will feature 10 episodes, each running 30 minutes.
Each one will follow the adventures of 13-year-old Kiki, who will fly to the big port city of Koriko after leaving home to rebuild her life there. Armed with a broom, her cat Jiji, and an outstanding personality, Kiki will start a delivery service for herself.
Meanwhile, Kiki is coming back to the screen right on time, as this year marks the 40th anniversary of the original fantasy novel. Therefore, the creators decided to celebrate the occasion with a memorable project.
Introducing The Next Generation To Iconic Kiki
Grainne McNamara of BBC Studios Kids & Family expressed excitement about the upcoming project. “We are thrilled to be part of a collaboration to bring Kiki’s Delivery Service to life for a new generation on a global stage,” she told Variety.
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“We cannot imagine a more exciting tribute to the landmark 40th anniversary of this classic book series than this partnership. The UK creative team has absorbed the spirit of Kiki through their close collaboration with Ms. Kadono,” said Takeo Kodera, director of international co-productions at Kadokawa Corporation.
He has claimed that the show will “enchant” family audiences. Meanwhile, acclaimed screenwriter Irena Brignull, who gave life and emotional depth to ‘The Little Prince’ and ‘The Boxtrolls,’ will write the TV series.
Describing Kiki as “one of fiction’s great girl characters,” Brignull expressed excitement about her involvement. “Embodying the magic that exists in re-invention and human connection, she shows us what’s possible when you venture boldly and big-heartedly into the world to find a sense of purpose.”
Besides Kiki, another classic Ghibli character will make a comeback. Released in 1997, ‘Princess Mononoke’ has been selected for a major restoration and will soon return to theatres. Starting August 15, the film will be released in over 50 cinemas across the UK and Ireland.
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