Studio Ghibli is home to many instant classics, be it original films or adaptations of existing works. Kiki’s Delivery Service falls into the latter category, turning the children’s fantasy novel by Eiko Kadono into an animated film, before Japanese filmmaker Takashi Shimizu took it into live-action territory in 2014.
Now, the beloved feature is getting its first live-action television treatment. Unveiled as part of a three-way partnership with BBC Studios, U.K. production company Wheel in Motion, and Japan’s Kadowana Corporation, the project will consist of 10 30-minute episodes primarily based on the first volume of Kadono’s six-book series. Irena Brignull, whose credits include the Oscar-nominated The Boxtrolls and Netflix’s The Little Prince, is set to write the series, with other details, such as a release date, other staff, and casting, yet to be disclosed.
“Kiki is one of fiction’s great girl characters, and I’m thrilled to be part of bringing her to life in this new adaptation,” Brignull said in a press release. “Embodying the magic that exists in reinvention and human connection, she shows us what’s possible when you venture boldly and big-heartedly into the world to find a sense of purpose.”
“We cannot imagine a more exciting tribute to the landmark 40th anniversary of this classic book series than this partnership. The UK creative team has absorbed the spirit of Kiki through their close collaboration with Ms Kadono, and the results will enchant family audiences everywhere,” added Takeo Kodera, director of international co-productions at Kadokawa.
Kiki’s Delivery Service follows the titular Kiki, a young witch who moves to the port city of Koriko with her cat Jiji and starts a flying courier service to help the townsfolk with mundane tasks. Originally published in 1985, the novel was adapted into an animated fantasy movie by Studio Ghibli founder Hayao Miyazaki in 1989, who served as director, screenwriter, and producer. It was the first title from the studio to be successful on initial release, with a total domestic gross of 4.3 billion yen (US$31 million, not adjusted for inflation) and multiple awards to its name.
The live-action Kiki’s Delivery Service series currently has no release date.
Si Jia is a casual geek at heart – or as casual as someone with Sephiroth’s theme on her Spotify playlist can get. A fan of movies, games, and Japanese culture, Si Jia’s greatest weakness is the Steam Summer Sale. Or any Steam sale, really.
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