Japan's animation powerhouse Studio Ghibli, behind classics like "My Neighbor Totoro" , "Spirited Away" and "HowlsMovingCastle" celebrated its 35th anniversary last year.
Yet, this is the very first time the studio has produced a 3DCG animation, Earwig and The Witch , directed by Goro Miyazaki, son of Studio Ghibli's co-founder, Hayao Miyazaki.
Although Goro has combined the classic 2D work with 3D animation in the TV series Ronia the Robber's Daughter, this is the first time he has used "full 3DCG" in a movie.
After some 3DCG experience in Ronia the Robber's Daughter, Goro had firmly decided that his next movie will be a complete 3DCG.
Goro Miyazaki, director of "Earwig and the Witch" Source: Studio Ghibli
Based on the novel by Diana Wynne Jones, Earwig and The Witch is about girl who grew up in an orphanage, unaware that her mother was a witch.
This is not the first time for Studio Ghibli to be inspired by Diana Wynne Jones. "HowlsMovingCastle" was also based on a novel of the same name.
Goro says that he is drawn in to Diana's "clever storytelling and the fascinating world she creates"
"The quirky characters are not only energetic, but have their own idiosyncrasies, and they are not afraid to show who they are, and live honestly according to their own desires"
Goro says that it was Earwig's charm which ultimately decided the animation.
"By normal standards, Earwig is not a good girl, but that's what makes her attractive. Even when she is in a situation she doesn't want to be in, she is able to find her way out. She is a wise and intelligent girl who can manipulate the people around her"
Earwig is a character full of emotions, and utilizing 3DCG animation has made all this possible.
Source: Studio Ghibli
"In CG you can concentrate on moving the modeled characters, this makes complex plays that combine various gestures possible"
The voice for Earwig in both the Japanese and the English dubbed version has been done by 13 year old, Kokoro Hirasawa and Taylor Paige Henderson.
"Their voice has a unique charm, and their nonchalant nature made them a perfect match for Earwig"
13year old Ghibli fan who saw the Premier last week told SBS Japanese, "It was interesting to see how busy Earwig was, laughing, getting angry, and getting flustered. It was like watching myself. I want to go see it again with my friends"
"I hope you will enjoy Earwig and the Witch," said Goro.
"Children are always having a hard time in their own way. That's why I always make my films with the hope of encouraging and supporting such children. And I'm really happy when I can cheer up the adults along with the children too"
Earwig and The Witch is in cinemas now.
