Studio Ghibli Masterpiece Set for Live-Action Remake!
Live-action adaptations of animated films are booming, with Studio Ghibli's beloved "Kiki's Delivery Service" now confirmed for a ten-part TV series, following the successes of "Lilo & Stitch" and "How to Train Your Dragon." Additionally, Disney's "Moana" live-action remake, starring Dwayne Johnson, is set to hit theaters next month. This trend underscores a significant shift in bringing animated favorites to new audiences through live-action formats.
The trend of animated movies receiving live-action adaptations continues to surge, with 2025 alone seeing the release of three high-profile remakes. Disney's production of "Snow White," led by Rachel Zegler, was met with controversy and box office failure. However, the poor reception of "Snow White" was fortunately offset by the success of "Lilo & Stitch," which garnered a billion-dollar box office haul and secured a green light for a sequel, with millions of fans flocking to theaters.
Among the successful adaptations, DreamWorks released its first live-action remake of an animated feature with "How to Train Your Dragon" in the summer. This film scored big at the box office and received near-perfect critical reviews, leading to a confirmed sequel, much like "Lilo & Stitch."
Now, the renowned Studio Ghibli is also joining the trend, as one of its most cherished projects, "Kiki's Delivery Service," is being adapted into a live-action television series. This adaptation is timed for the 40th anniversary of its source material, which began as a novel by Eiko Kadono in 1985 before becoming a hit anime three years later. Following the announcement of a sequel novel, it has been reported that BBC Studios Kids & Family is collaborating with UK production company Wheel in Motion and Japan’s Kadokawa Corporation to bring this live-action series to fruition. The series is planned to be split into ten parts and will primarily base its narrative on the first volume of Kadono’s six-book series. Irena Brignull, known for her work on "The Boxtrolls" and "The Little Prince," is attached to write the series. Brignull expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, "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." She added that Kiki embodies "the magic that exists in re-invention and human connection," demonstrating "what’s possible when you venture boldly and big-heartedly into the world to find a sense of purpose."
Before the debut of "Kiki's Delivery Service," another significant big-budget live-action adaptation is set to arrive in theaters next month. Disney's long-awaited live-action remake of "Moana" will feature Dwayne Johnson portraying his beloved character Maui, alongside Catherine Laga'aia as the titular daughter of Motunui's chief. This film is scheduled for release on July 10 and marks the directorial debut of Thomas Kail, a Tony winner recognized for his work on "Hamilton."