Fans of Hayao Miyazaki’s Academy Award-winning animated film “Spirited Away” can now enjoy a new theatrical adaptation streaming on HBO Max. This adaptation, a collaboration between Studio Ghibli and Toho’s theater division, premiered in 2022 and is now accessible to Western audiences with English subtitles.
About the adaptation: The stage production features two different casts, with Mone Kamishiraishi and Kanna Hashimoto alternating in the lead role of Chihiro. This innovative approach allows viewers to experience varying interpretations of the character and the story. Both versions of the performance are available on HBO’s streaming service.
Director’s vision: Directed by Tony Award-winner John Caird, known for his work on “Les Misérables,” the adaptation has been praised for its faithful replication of Miyazaki’s vision. The stage production uses detailed sets and intricate puppetry to bring the animated world to life. Caird emphasized the importance of staying true to Miyazaki’s original visuals to capture the essence of the story. “I think because they’re just really good stories,” Caird explained to CBR. “And so the secret of getting them right on the stage is to make sure that the imagery, the visual imagery, is faithful to Miyazaki’s vision and then everything else follows.”
Continued success: Following its acclaim in Tokyo, the stage production is set to continue its journey with a 12-week stint at London’s Coliseum starting April 30, complete with English captions to cater to a broader audience. In addition to the streaming availability, GKIDS has released the performance on digital home release and Blu-ray, featuring both casts.
The availability of “Spirited Away: Live on Stage” on HBO Max adds to the rich collection of Studio Ghibli’s animated films on the platform, offering fans a new way to experience Miyazaki’s magical storytelling. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Miyazaki’s work, this theatrical adaptation provides a fresh perspective on a beloved classic.