Anime fans have long been appreciating the films of Studio Ghibli for their calming and touching stories-now for the first time a current study confirms this impression with tangible evidence. We summarize.
GHIBLI films make you happy
518 people were divided into four groups for the research work of JMIR Publications. While some saw excerpts from films such as “my neighbor Totoro” and “Kiki’s small delivery service”, the other groups did without it.
Afterwards, the participants were asked to estimate their sensations to rest, curiosity, meaningfulness and general well -being. It was shown that those who had seen scenes from Ghibli classics expressed a significantly increased feeling of life satisfaction-stronger than in the comparison groups.
The researchers attributed the effect primarily to nostalgia. The reunion with familiar stories and figures from studio ghibli films caused a relaxing wave of positive feelings.
Guide for a fulfilling life
They also described the films as a form of “active escapism”, which not only gives new strength, but also stimulates reflecting on life.
According to the scientists, the studio’s art of narrative creates a guide for a fulfilling life: it invites you to discover the special in everyday life, to understand difficulties as opportunities for personal development and to keep a sense of community with the power of one’s own independence in balance.
As examples, Totoro’s joy of acorns, Kiki’s determination to master flying, as well as Satsuki’s solidarity with her younger sister Mei.
Finally, the study states that the films “Comprehensive recipe for happiness” represent – further evidence of the cultural importance of Studio Ghibli.
