Earwig and the Witch is a 2020 Japanese animated film. It is the first full CGI animated feature film produced by Studio Ghibli, renowned for its hand-drawn animation style. The film is directed by Gorō Miyazaki, son of famous filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki, and is based on the novel of the same name by Diana Wynne Jones. The story follows a young girl named Earwig, who is left at an orphanage by her mother when she was a baby. Despite her young age, Earwig is a strong-willed and independent character who uses her cunningness to manipulate the adults around her. However, her life takes a turn when she is adopted by a mysterious couple, who turn out to be a witch and a shape-shifting demon.

Every Studio Ghibli Movie Ranked by Rotten Tomatoes Score

However, her life takes a turn when she is adopted by a mysterious couple, who turn out to be a witch and a shape-shifting demon. Earwig is forced to live in the witch's bizarre and chaotic household, where she must outsmart and navigate her way through unusual situations. With the help of a talking cat and her determination, Earwig starts to unravel the secrets of the witch and discovers her own hidden powers.

Find out how 'The Boy and the Heron' ranks next to 'Kiki's Delivery Service,' 'Howl's Moving Castle' and other Studio Ghibli favorites

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Everyone has their favorite Studio Ghibli movie, but which is the best? Here’s every feature-length film from the acclaimed Japanese animation producer Studio Ghibli, from its earliest animated classic from the '80s like My Neighbor Totoro to the latest one out now in theaters, The Boy and the Heron, ranked according to critical scores on the review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes.

Renowned Japanese animator and accomplished director Hayao Miyazaki next to a still of his so-called swan song, The Boy and the Heron. Steve Granitz/WireImage; © 2023 Studio Ghibli

Upon its release, Earwig and the Witch received mixed reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 39% approval rating based on 92 reviews, with an average rating of 5.2/10. The website's critics' consensus states that "Earwig and the Witch marks Studio Ghibli's first foray into fully 3D animation – and its accompanying disappointments are rendered in plain relief by a story that lacks the studio's usual depth or creative magic." Critics praised the film's visual style and attention to detail, noting the impressive CGI animation. However, many felt that the story lacked the emotional depth and narrative complexity that Studio Ghibli films are known for. Some critics also found the characters to be unlikable and the pacing to be uneven. Despite the mixed reception, Earwig and the Witch still remains an interesting addition to Studio Ghibli's filmography. It showcases the studio's willingness to explore new animation styles while still retaining its distinctive charm. Fans of the studio's previous works may find some enjoyment in the film, although it may not reach the same level of acclaim as Studio Ghibli's beloved classics..

Reviews for "The Factors Behind Earwig and the Witch's Rotten Tomatoes Score"

1. John - 2/5

I was really excited to watch "Earwig and the Witch" as I have enjoyed Studio Ghibli's previous works. However, this movie was a huge disappointment for me. The animation style deviated from their usual enchanting and realistic art, and the characters were not as engaging. The storyline felt rushed and lacked depth, leaving me with many unanswered questions by the end. Overall, I felt that Studio Ghibli missed the mark with this one.

2. Sarah - 1/5

"Earwig and the Witch" was not what I expected at all. The plot was confusing and felt disjointed, making it difficult for me to follow along. Additionally, the characters were underdeveloped, and I had no emotional connection with any of them. The animation style was also a letdown, as it lacked the elegance and beauty that I have come to associate with Studio Ghibli. Unfortunately, this movie was a miss for me, and I would not recommend it.

3. Michael - 2/5

I had high hopes for "Earwig and the Witch" as I am a big fan of Studio Ghibli. However, this film fell short of their usual standards. The story lacked the enchanting and magical elements that I have come to love from this studio, and the characters were forgettable. The animation style was also a departure from their usual hand-drawn beauty, and it did not work well for this film. Overall, "Earwig and the Witch" left me underwhelmed and wanting more.

4. Emily - 2/5

I found "Earwig and the Witch" to be lacking in many aspects. The plot was confusing and felt rushed, and the characters did not have enough development for me to care about them. The animation style, though unique, did not translate well for this story and lacked the charm and beauty of Studio Ghibli's previous works. While I appreciate their attempt to delve into new territory, this film fell short for me and did not live up to my expectations.

Exploring the Rotten Tomatoes Reviews of Earwig and the Witch