Earwig and the Witch

About Earwig and the Witch

"Earwig and the Witch" is a 2020 3D computer-animated television film released by Studio Ghibli. The story follows a young, orphaned girl named Earwig who is adopted by a witch and brought to a mysterious house filled with magic and spells. Despite her predicament, Earwig displays a remarkable stubbornness and cunning attempt to manipulate her new guardian in order to live life on her own terms.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Goro Miyazaki, son of the acclaimed Hayao Miyazaki, and is based on the novel of the same name by Diana Wynne Jones. It's noteworthy for being Studio Ghibli's first fully 3D CGI animated feature film.

Actors

• Shinobu Terajima played the role of Bella Yaga wonderfully, lending her voice to the outwardly stern but inwardly vulnerable witch.
• Etsushi Toyokawa as Mandrake made a compelling character, with his gruff yet layered portrayal.
• Kokoro Hirasawa as Earwig (Aya in Japanese), brought energy and wit to the feisty protagonist character.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This is Goro Miyazaki’s third feature film for Studio Ghibli.
• "Earwig and the Witch" is Studio Ghibli's first 3D CGI animated feature film.
• The film is based on a novel by Diana Wynne Jones, who also wrote "Howl's Moving Castle" which was previously adapted by Studio Ghibli.

Quotes

• "It doesn't matter what they do to you. What matters is what you do." - Earwig
• "Once you've made up your mind, nothing else matters." - Bella Yaga

Music, Soundtrack

• "Don't Disturb Me" - Theme song, performed by Kacey Musgraves.
• "Bowled Over" - Composed by Satoshi Takebe.
• "Head and Shoulders, Knees and Toes" - A featured tune in the film.