From Castle in the Sky to The Boy and the Heron,Studio Ghibli has produced mesmerizing and timeless anime for over three decades. By now, it’s safe to say that every anime enthusiast worldwide is familiar with this legendary studio and has likely watched at least one of its feature films. With such a vast catalog, there's certainly something for everyone to cherish.
However, there's a particular project that often goes unmentioned in conversations about Studio Ghibli. Surprisingly, this project stands as the sole full-length TV series produced by the iconic studio. This hidden gem is none other than Ronja, The Robber’s Daughter. Here's the scoop on this lesser-known masterpiece.
Unveiling Ronja, The Robber’s Daughter
Deep within a lush mountain range, a dirt road winds through a dense forest, serving as the passage to the other side. As the journey across this road is time-consuming, travelers often use wagons or carriages laden with their precious possessions. Consequently, this unnamed road becomes the prime hunting ground for two groups of bandits and robbers: the Mattis and The Borkas.
One day, the leader of the Mattis Robbers is blessed with a daughter, whom he names Ronja. The group warmly welcomes the new addition to their family and joyfully watches over little Ronja every day. Growing up, Ronja evolves into a spirited and curious girl, brimming with an insatiable sense of exploration. She delights in venturing into the forest surrounding their hideout and befriending the wild creatures residing there. However, there's a twist – Ronja remains unaware of her family's notorious reputation as robbers.
Complications arise when the Mattis discover that the Borkas have clandestinely taken up residence in the adjacent abandoned castle, effectively making these two rival clans neighbors. Unaware of their backgrounds, Ronja befriends the son of the Borkas' Chief, sparking a heartwarming, inspiring, and enthralling coming-of-age saga.
An Uplifting, Inspirational, and Captivating Coming-of-Age Narrative
Spanning 26 episodes, Ronja, The Robber’s Daughter encapsulates all the elements that contribute to the greatness of a Ghibli feature film.
It unfolds as a coming-of-age chronicle featuring a determined and resourceful protagonist who confronts challenges head-on, reminiscent of Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke, and Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind. Set in a fantastical realm teeming with extraordinary and mystical creatures like talkative harpies and moody Rumphobs, the series imparts valuable life lessons through its heartwarming and motivational narrative.
Similar to other iconic Ghibli productions, Ronja, The Robber’s Daughter is replete with gripping conflicts and thrilling moments that interweave the story elements, propelling the narrative and delivering an enjoyable and memorable viewing experience. While the series may not feature intense physical conflicts akin to those in Princess Mononoke or Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, it navigates numerous moral conflicts within the minds and hearts of Ronja and the other characters, challenging our perceptions of good and evil.
Birthed from Astrid Lindgren's Imagination, Captured by Goro Miyazaki's Vision
Ronja, The Robber’s Daughter is an adaptation of the eponymous novel penned by Swedish author Astrid Lindgren. Originally published in 1981, the novel has seen adaptations into films, musicals, stage plays, and a TV series before being reimagined as an anime series by Studio Ghibli. Astrid Lindgren is celebrated for her enchanting children's tales, including the Pippi Longstocking series, The Six Bullerby Children, and The Brothers Lionheart, among others.
As for the creative force behind the anime rendition of Ronja, The Robber’s Daughter, it is none other than Goro Miyazaki, the son of the illustrious director Hayao Miyazaki. Prior to this venture, Goro Miyazaki had directed several feature films for Studio Ghibli, such as Tales from Earthsea, From Up on Poppy Hill, and most recently, Earwig and the Witch.
While Ronja, The Robber’s Daughter may not enjoy the same iconic status as some of the masterpieces in Studio Ghibli’s extensive repertoire, it undeniably offers an equally entertaining and memorable experience. It introduces a fresh perspective, particularly in terms of storytelling format and animation style, while remaining true to the essence of what makes Ghibli's narratives so cherished. This alone warrants a wholehearted recommendation for the series.
Ronja, The Robber’s Daughter is available for streaming on Apple TV and Prime Video.