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The Art Of The Secret World Of Arrietty Book Review

“The Art Of The Secret World Of Arrietty” is another must have for Studio Ghibli fans.

Studio Ghibli fans rejoice! Viz Media has released another art of book. This time it’s for the underrated “The Secret World Of Arrietty.” (which is an adaptation of “The Borrowers”).

As is to be expected, the book is crammed with content. Readers can expect to see an intro by Studio Ghibli about the production and project, a piece on the author Mary Norton, concept art, an interview with director Hiromasa Yonebayashi (who talks about the novel, getting the director gig, storyboards, character designs, and staff members), bios, quotes about art pieces, character sketches, colorful 2 page spreads, alternate designs, Hayao Miyazaki’s proposal for the film along with sketches he did, production sketches, background art, the complete voice over script in English, lyrics for Cecile Corbel’s songs “The Neglected Garden,” “Our House Below,” and “Arrietty’s Song,” and pieces with art director Yoji Takeshige (who talks about concept art) and art director Noboru Yoshida (who talks about the scale).

Having reviewed a number of Studio Ghibli centric “Art of” books, I have to say this particular one provides more content than most. Not only is it a bigger book overall, but you really get a sense of how an animated film is made in general within these pages (especially with the interviews with staff members). It’s not just a mere collection of images as with some film art books.

On the subject of the art though, when you’re pouring over these pages, it’s so easy to get lost in the artistry on display here. There’s such an attention to details, objects, scenes and settings here. You’re essentially seeing a world created before your very eyes via stunning background art, character sketches, and so forth.

Overall Thoughts: If you love animation or Studio Ghibli, this book is tailor made for you. Recommended.

May 6, 2018 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Book review | Art Book, Studio Ghibli, The Art Of The Secret World Of Arrietty Book Review, The Borrowers, The Secret World Of Arrietty, Viz Media