In both the manga and the film, the plot is straightforward.
However, a few changes divide the tones of these charming tales. The fantasy film adaptation directed by Hiroyuki Morita largely retains the manga’s character designs, pacing, and plot. Again, the studio adapted Whisper of the Heart from Hiiragi’s original manga series. The starring cat statue from Ghibli’s Whisper of the Heart returns as one of the main The Cat Returns protagonists. The Cat Returns, or Neko no Ongaeshi, is the first and only theatrically released spin-off film from Studio Ghibli. Sometimes, animals bring out the best personality traits we fail to recognise in ourselves.Īcclaimed Japanese animation studio Studio Ghibli adapted author Aoi Hiiragi’s manga, Baron: The Cat Returns into a film in 2002. When other people fail us – including ourselves – we turn to other sources for comfort. How can a person focus on their individualism when seeking validation from others? The high school years prove particularly strenuous on self-esteem when surrounded by peers who fuel an individual’s own internalised inadequacy. When navigating confusing social dynamics and a period where awkwardness permeates the fabric of growth, adolescents often wish for an escape.
