Netflix Is Streaming the First Film By Studio Ghibli's Successor, And It Has the Rotten Tomatoes Score to Prove It

Studio Ghibli has produced many of the highest-rated anime films. While fans await Hayao Miyazaki’s next project, another film is currently streaming on Netflix that captures the same spirit. Mary and the Witch’s Flower premiered in 2017 and marked the debut of Studio Ponoc, a new production house founded by former Ghibli lead producer Yoshiaki Nishimura in 2015, celebrated for the highly acclaimed anime film, The Tale of Princess Kaguya. Studio Ponoc also features contributions from Ghibli director Hiromasa Yonebayashi, recognized for his work on The Secret World of Arrietty, and he collaborated with Nishimura on When Marnie Was There.

With hand-drawn animation, whimsical charm, and heartfelt storytelling, Mary and the Witch’s Flower immediately draws comparisons to Ghibli classics. Critics and fans alike embraced the film upon its release, and its Certified Fresh 89% score on Rotten Tomatoes reflects its widespread appeal. The film possesses a sense of wonder and fresh energy and offers viewers a magical journey that mirrors Ghibli’s works.

Mary and the Witch’s Flower Brings Studio Ghibli Magic Back to Life

Like Some Other Ghibli Works, Studio Ponoc’s First Film Is Based on a Novel

Based on the 1971 children’s novel The Little Broomstick by Mary Stewart, Mary and the Witch’s Flower follows a curious young girl who stumbles upon an old broomstick and a rare, magical flower that grants temporary powers. The Fly-by-Night and the broomstick lead her to a hidden school for witches high above the clouds, where Mary meets headmistress Madam Mumblechook and the brilliant Doctor Dee. The story begins as a whimsical and magical adventure, but gradually takes a darker turn as Mary uncovers the truth behind the school’s experiments and the source of its power.

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With its lush backgrounds, lively character designs, and vibrant animation, Mary and the Witch’s Flower captures the same energy that Studio Ghibli fans love while also forging its own identity. The story centers on a strong-willed protagonist whose courage and empathy drive the narrative forward. With Ghibli veterans working behind the scenes, the film serves as a lovely tribute to Ghibli’s enduring legacy.

Studio Ponoc Is a Worthy Successor to Studio Ghibli

Its Certified Fresh Score Proves Mary and the Witch’s Flower Is a Must-Watch

What makes Studio Ponoc a worthy successor is more than just a shared talent for visual and narrative craftsmanship. It’s the studio’s commitment to sincere and emotionally driven storytelling. Just as Studio Ghibli’s work highlights quiet moments and moral complexity, Ponoc’s films are also fueled by heartfelt moments and emotional depth. Mary and the Witch’s Flower embraces themes of self-discovery, responsibility, and the courage to confront wrongdoing in an accessible fantasy adventure for all ages. With Studio Ponoc, we can expect more films that capture Ghibli’s unique charm.

With a high Certified Fresh Score on Rotten Tomatoes, along with praise from both critics and audiences, Mary and the Witch’s Flower stands as a successful debut. Streaming the film on Netflix offers a new generation of viewers the chance to experience the beginning of Studio Ponoc’s journey while capturing the charm of classic Ghibli films. For longtime fans of Studio Ghibli, the film serves as a fresh yet nostalgic callback to beloved favorites with its hand-drawn style, while for newcomers, it’s an excellent gateway into handcrafted and story-driven anime.

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Looking ahead, Studio Ponoc will continue to release films that are just as ambitious. Their anthology film Modest Heroes and their second full-length feature, The Imaginary, serve as proof of the studio’s capabilities in crafting visually stunning and emotionally resonant stories. With strong leadership and talented artists, Ponoc is positioned to become a powerhouse in animation. Mary and the Witch’s Flower marked a bold and unforgettable first step for the studio, and there is certainly more to come.

Studio Ponoc offers longtime fans of Studio Ghibli the same powerful storytelling combined with nostalgic hand-drawn animation, vivid worlds, and strong characters. Their debut film exemplifies the studio’s ability to create beautiful works and holds the promise that future films will only become more inspired and captivating. For anyone who appreciates Ghibli’s animation and storytelling, Studio Ponoc is a name to remember. There’s no better starting point than their first feature film, Mary and the Witch’s Flower.

Mary and The Witch’s Flower

Release Date: July 8, 2017
Runtime: 103 minutes
Director: Hiromasa Yonebayashi
Writers: Riko Sakaguchi, Hiromasa Yonebayashi
Producers: Will Clarke, Yoshiaki Nishimura, Geoffrey Wexler, Tomoko Hosokawa, Shô Oyamada