Keep an Eye on Earwig and the Witch is a 2020 animated film directed by Goro Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. It is based on the novel of the same name by Diana Wynne Jones. The film follows the adventures of Earwig, a young orphan girl who is adopted by a witch and soon discovers that she has magical powers of her own. However, she must navigate the challenges of living with a demanding and unpredictable witch while trying to find her own place in the world. The film is a departure from the traditional hand-drawn animation style of Studio Ghibli, as it is the first film from the studio to be fully animated using computer graphics. This decision has sparked some controversy among fans of the studio, as many have criticized the film's animation for lacking the warmth and charm of Ghibli's traditionally animated films.
'This long awaited book is the definitive history of the image of the witch in fifteenth and sixteenth century Europe. Zika's scholarship is extraordinary – he takes us through popular perceptions, iconography and intellectual history as he unravels the meanings of these compelling images. A masterly study, it will interest all historians of sexuality, art, and culture.' - Lyndal Roper, The University of Oxford 'This is a major reworking of the visual history of witchcraft and more comprehensive than anything that has gone before. The scholarship is exhaustive and impeccable throughout… It will be the standard work on the subject for many years.' - Stuart Clark, University of Swansea 'The imagery of early modern witchcraft has not had such a detailed study before, and thus Zika’s study is very welcome. His attention to both elite and popular versions of illustrations, and to the folklore of the period, make this an informative book on the folk beliefs of the time as well. The Appearance of Witchcraft is a book that anyone with an interest in witchcraft and supernatural belief in Europe or America should know.' - David Elton Gay, Indiana University
It demonstrates how influential these were in creating a new iconography for representing witchcraft, incorporating themes such as the power of female sexuality, male fantasy, moral reform, divine providence and punishment, the superstitions of non-Christian peoples and the cannibalism of the New World. Zika s scholarship is extraordinary he takes us through popular perceptions, iconography and intellectual history as he unravels the meanings of these compelling images.
This decision has sparked some controversy among fans of the studio, as many have criticized the film's animation for lacking the warmth and charm of Ghibli's traditionally animated films. However, others have praised the film's unique visual style and its ability to bring the story to life in a fresh and engaging way. Despite the mixed reception to its animation style, Keep an Eye on Earwig and the Witch has been generally well-received by critics and audiences alike.
The Bell Witch Haunting
On a small farm in rural Tennessee, a mysterious spirit was tormenting a family. Quilts were pulled off beds, strange noises stomped through the house, and shoes were thrown across rooms. In this graphic narrative, real quotes from an account written by a family member help tell the story of this strange haunting, while other theories are presented to dispute the supernatural nature of the story. Do you believe in the Bell Witch?
- Details
- Authors & Illustrators
| Interest Level | Grade 3 - Grade 8 |
|---|---|
| Reading Level | Grade 4 |
| Category | Graphic Nonfiction, Hi-Lo |
| Subject | Paranormal |
| Copyright | 2020 |
| Publisher | Bellwether Media |
| Imprint | Black Sheep |
| Brand | Black Sheep |
| Language | English |
| Number of Pages | 24 |
| Publication Date | 2019-08-01 |
| BISACS | JNF008000, JNF016000 |
|---|---|
| Dewey | 133.1 |
| Graphics | Full-color illustrations |
| Dimensions | 6.5 x 9 x 0.25 |
| Lexile | 580 |
| Guided Reading Level | Q |
| ATOS Reading Level | 3.3 |
| Accelerated Reader® Quiz | 502885 |
| Accelerated Reader® Points | 0.5 |
| Features | Glossary of key words, Index, Sources for further research, and Table of contents |
On a small farm in rural Tennessee, a mysterious spirit was tormenting a family. Quilts were pulled off beds, strange noises stomped through the house, and shoes were thrown across rooms. In this graphic narrative, real quotes from an account written by a family member help tell the story of this strange haunting, while other theories are presented to dispute the supernatural nature of the story. Do you believe in the Bell Witch?
The film has been praised for its strong storytelling and engaging characters, particularly Earwig herself, who is portrayed as a resourceful and independent young girl. The film also features the distinctive mix of humor and heart that has become a trademark of Studio Ghibli's films, providing moments of both laughter and emotional depth. Overall, Keep an Eye on Earwig and the Witch is an intriguing addition to the Studio Ghibli canon. While it may not be as visually stunning as some of the studio's previous films, it still manages to captivate audiences with its charming characters and engaging story. Whether you are a die-hard Studio Ghibli fan or simply looking for an entertaining animated film, it is worth keeping an eye on Earwig and the Witch..
Reviews for "Earwig and the Witch: Delightful Family Entertainment or Mixed Reviews?"
1. Tom - 1/5
I was really disappointed with "Keep an Eye on Earwig and the Witch." The story felt disjointed and lacked the charm and engaging characters that we typically see in Studio Ghibli films. The animation style was also a departure from what we're used to, and it didn't work for me. Overall, the film felt rushed and underdeveloped, and I didn't feel emotionally invested in the story or the characters. It's a shame because I usually love Studio Ghibli movies, but this one just fell flat for me.
2. Sarah - 2/5
I was excited to watch "Keep an Eye on Earwig and the Witch," but unfortunately, it didn't live up to my expectations. The story felt rushed and confusing, and the characters were underdeveloped. I also didn't like the animation style, which felt flat and lacked the depth and beauty that Studio Ghibli is known for. The film lacked the magic and enchantment that we usually associate with Studio Ghibli movies, and I found myself feeling disconnected and disengaged throughout. Overall, it was a disappointing experience for me.
3. Jake - 2/5
"Keep an Eye on Earwig and the Witch" was a letdown for me. The story felt forced and predictable, and I didn't find myself connecting with the characters or their struggles. The animation style was also a departure from what I love about Studio Ghibli films, and it didn't work for me. The film lacked the depth and emotion that usually captivates me in Studio Ghibli movies, and I found myself feeling bored and uninterested. It's a shame because I had high hopes for this film, but it didn't deliver.
4. Emily - 3/5
While "Keep an Eye on Earwig and the Witch" had its flaws, I think it still had some redeeming qualities. The story, although lacking depth, had moments of humor and charm. The animation style may not have been what we're used to from Studio Ghibli, but it was unique and had its own appeal. The film may not have lived up to my expectations, but it still had its enjoyable moments. Overall, it's not a movie I would highly recommend, but if you're a big fan of Studio Ghibli, it might be worth giving a watch.
5. Daniel - 2/5
"Keep an Eye on Earwig and the Witch" felt like a missed opportunity. The story had potential, but it felt rushed and lacking in substance. The characters were underdeveloped, and I didn't feel emotionally invested in their journey. The animation style, although different, didn't capture the beauty and detail that Studio Ghibli is known for. Overall, the film felt like a forgettable entry in the Studio Ghibli catalog, and I was left disappointed. There are much better movies from the studio to enjoy.