SAN FRANCISCO — VIZ Media LLC, the largest distributor and licensor of anime and manga in North America, brings the miniaturized adventure of famed Studio Ghibli’s newest animated creation — “The Secret World of Arrietty” (Karigurashi no Arrietty, 2010) — to readers everywhere with a collection of film comics, art and picture books.
The publications debuted on Feb. 7 and the North American release of the film started Feb. 17.
“The Secret World of Arrietty” is based on the celebrated novel “The Borrowers” by Mary Norton and was produced by Studio Ghibli, the animation company founded by Hayao Miyazaki, which also created “Spirited Away,” “Princess Mononoke,” “Howl’s Moving Castle” and “Ponyo.”
The new film, with planning/screenplay by Miyazaki and directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi, features the voice talents of Bridget Mendler, Amy Poehler, Carol Burnett and Will Arnett for its English-language release.
Arrietty isn’t your ordinary 14-year-old girl — she is small enough to make her home under the floorboards of a typical house, “borrowing” what she and her family need from the giants in whose shadows they live. A young boy named Shawn befriends Arrietty, but when adults discover the Borrowers, Arrietty and Shawn must work together to save her family.
“Fans and readers of all ages won’t want to miss these new additions to VIZ Media’s Studio Ghibli Library of titles,” says Masumi Washington, senior director, editorial. “Studio Ghibli has mastered the ability to tell poignant and engaging stories that captivate both children and adults, and their latest film … continues this tradition.
“Our forthcoming picture book and film comics are fun ways for young readers to visit the world of Arrietty while the gorgeous art book will be a must-have for the ardent Studio Ghibli fan or those who want to know more about the evolution of the film.”
These publications are rated “A” for all ages.
• The Secret World of Arrietty Picture Book (MSRP: $19.99 U.S.)
This easy-to-read book is a full-color hardcover edition that will appeal to younger readers especially. It uses the vividly colored animation cel art from the feature film combined with simplified text to retell the story of Arrietty and her adventures.
• The Secret World of Arrietty Film Comic (MSRP: $16.99 U.S. each)
The official two-volume film comic retells the film’s story with vivid full-color frames.
• The Art of The Secret World of Arrietty (MSRP: $34.99 U.S.)
Studio Ghibli films enthrall and enchant audiences across the world. The “Art of” series gives fans the opportunity to follow their favorite film from initial concept to the silver screen, thanks to hundreds of sketches, concept drawings, and animation cels, plus in-depth interviews with the creators.
More information on VIZ Media’s Studio Ghibli titles is available at http://viz.com/ghibli.
Headquartered in San Francisco, VIZ Media is one of the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga publishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content. Owned by three of Japan’s largest creators and licensors of manga and animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions Co. Ltd., VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of manga for English-speaking audiences in North America, the U.K., Ireland, and South Africa and is a global ex-Asia licensor of Japanese manga and animation.
The company offers an integrated product line including magazines such as Shonen Jump and Shojo Beat, graphic novels, and DVDs, and develops, markets, licenses, and distributes animated entertainment for audiences and consumers of all ages. Contact VIZ Media at 295 Bay St., San Francisco, CA 94133, or online at http://viz.com.
(Images courtesy of VIZ Media)