Mary and the Witch’s Flower (2017): A Whimsical Yet Familiar Animated Adventure

Mary and the Witch’s Flower (original title: Meari to Majo no Hana), directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi, is a 2017 Japanese animated film that marks the debut feature from Studio Ponoc, a studio founded by former Studio Ghibli animators. Adapted from Mary Stewart’s 1971 children’s novel The Little Broomstick, this film blends enchanting visuals, a spirited young protagonist, and a touch of magic, making it a captivating addition to the anime landscape. While it carries echoes of Studio Ghibli’s legacy, Mary and the Witch’s Flower carves its own path with a unique blend of charm and ambition, though it doesn’t always soar as high as its inspirations. In this review, we’ll explore what makes this film stand out, its strengths and shortcomings, and why it’s a must-watch for animation fans.

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A Magical Premise Rooted in Wonder

The story follows Mary Smith, a clumsy, red-haired 11-year-old who feels out of place while staying with her great-aunt Charlotte in the English countryside. Bored and self-conscious about her unruly hair, Mary’s life takes a fantastical turn when a mysterious black cat, Tib, leads her to a glowing blue flower known as the “Fly-by-Night.” This rare bloom, which blooms once every seven years, grants temporary magical powers. Armed with a stolen broomstick and newfound abilities, Mary is whisked away to Endor College, a dazzling school for witches and wizards run by the eccentric Madame Mumblechook and the sinister Doctor Dee. What begins as an exciting adventure soon unravels into a darker tale of magical experimentation, forcing Mary to rely on her courage and quick thinking to save the day.

The premise is a classic coming-of-age tale infused with magical realism, reminiscent of Studio Ghibli’s Kiki’s Delivery Service or Spirited Away. However, Mary and the Witch’s Flower distinguishes itself with its focus on self-acceptance and the ethical boundaries of power, wrapped in a visually stunning package that appeals to both children and adults.

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Visual Splendor: A Feast for the Eyes

One of the film’s most striking features is its breathtaking animation. Studio Ponoc, staffed with Ghibli veterans, delivers lush, hand-drawn visuals that rival the best of Japanese anime. The English countryside is rendered with vibrant greens and rolling hills, while Endor College dazzles with its kaleidoscopic architecture, glowing potions, and whimsical creatures. The Fly-by-Night flower itself is a visual standout, its luminescent petals practically glowing off the screen.

The animation shines in its attention to detail—Mary’s wild red hair bounces with every step, and the broomstick sequences are exhilarating, capturing the thrill of flight. Studio Ponoc’s commitment to traditional 2D animation is a refreshing contrast to the growing dominance of CGI, and the film’s painterly aesthetic feels like a love letter to Ghibli’s golden era. The score, composed by Takatsugu Muramatsu, complements the visuals with a delicate, haunting melody that enhances the film’s magical atmosphere without overpowering it.

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A Spirited Protagonist and Memorable Cast

Mary, voiced by Hana Sugisaki in the Japanese version and Ruby Barnhill in the English dub, is a relatable and endearing lead. Her awkwardness, self-doubt, and determination make her a compelling everygirl, and her journey from insecurity to bravery resonates deeply. Unlike some anime heroines who are effortlessly heroic, Mary’s clumsiness and impulsive decisions ground her in a way that feels authentic. Her interactions with Tib and Gib (the black cats) add a playful charm, though the animals steal scenes without overshadowing her.

The supporting cast, while not as richly developed, adds color to the story. Madame Mumblechook (voiced by Yuki Amami in Japanese and Kate Winslet in English) is a flamboyant headmistress whose warmth hides a questionable agenda, while Doctor Dee (Fumiyo Kohinata/Jim Broadbent) brings a creepy, mad-scientist vibe. Peter, a local boy who gets caught up in Mary’s adventure, serves as a grounded counterpart but lacks the depth to leave a lasting impression. The voice acting, particularly in the English dub, is solid, with Winslet’s theatrical flair standing out.

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Themes of Self-Acceptance and Ethical Magic

At its core, Mary and the Witch’s Flower is a story about embracing one’s flaws and recognizing that true strength comes from within. Mary’s insecurities about her appearance and perceived uselessness are universal, making her journey relatable to audiences of all ages. The film also tackles heavier themes, such as the misuse of power and the dangers of unchecked ambition. The Fly-by-Night flower, while beautiful, becomes a metaphor for fleeting, dangerous power, and the villains’ experiments at Endor College raise questions about the ethics of scientific and magical progress.

These themes, while not explored with the philosophical depth of a Miyazaki classic, give the film a layer of substance that elevates it beyond a simple adventure. It’s a refreshing departure from the binary good-vs-evil narratives of many children’s films, encouraging viewers to think critically about power and responsibility.

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Where It Soars and Stumbles

Mary and the Witch’s Flower excels in its visuals, heart, and pacing, clocking in at a brisk 103 minutes that never feels dragged out. The action sequences, particularly the broomstick chases and the climactic showdown, are thrilling and well-choreographed. The film’s ability to balance whimsy with darker undertones makes it accessible to both young viewers and adults seeking something deeper.

However, the film isn’t without flaws. Its narrative leans heavily on familiar tropes, and those expecting a groundbreaking story may find it derivative of Ghibli’s playbook. The villains, while entertaining, lack the complexity of Ghibli’s best antagonists, and their motivations feel underdeveloped. Similarly, the world-building, while visually rich, leaves some questions unanswered—why does the Fly-by-Night exist, and what is Endor College’s broader purpose? These gaps don’t derail the story but prevent it from reaching the emotional or intellectual heights of films like Howl’s Moving Castle.

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A Promising Start for Studio Ponoc

As Studio Ponoc’s first feature, Mary and the Witch’s Flower is a bold statement of intent. It proves that the studio can carry the torch of Ghibli’s aesthetic and emotional storytelling while forging its own identity. The film’s blend of heart, humor, and spectacle makes it a delightful watch, even if it doesn’t quite match the masterpieces of its predecessors. Its universal themes and vibrant animation ensure it appeals to a global audience, and its shorter runtime makes it an easy recommendation for family movie nights.

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Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, Mary and the Witch’s Flower received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its animation and charm while noting its similarities to Ghibli films. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds an 89% approval rating based on 91 reviews, with an audience score of 74%. Fans on platforms like X have celebrated its visuals and Mary’s likability, though some have echoed the sentiment that it feels like “Ghibli-lite.” The film grossed over $42 million worldwide, a respectable figure for a debut, signaling Studio Ponoc’s potential to become a major player in anime.

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Why You Should Watch It

Mary and the Witch’s Flower is a visually stunning, heartfelt adventure that captures the magic of youth and the power of self-discovery. While it may not reinvent the wheel, its gorgeous animation, relatable protagonist, and thoughtful themes make it a standout. It’s perfect for fans of Studio Ghibli, anime enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a family-friendly film with a touch of enchantment. Watch it for the broomstick rides, stay for Mary’s journey, and let Studio Ponoc’s debut whisk you away to a world of wonder.

Where to Watch: Available on streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime (in select regions), and Blu-ray/DVD.

Rating: 8/10 – A magical, if familiar, ride that promises great things from Studio Ponoc.