Kiki’s Delivery Service Review: A Whimsical Journey of Growing Up and Finding Your Place

Rating:

4 / 4 Mochi

Target Audience: Everyone

Studio Ghibli’s 1989 film Kiki’s Delivery Service, directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, remains a timeless classic that captures the bittersweet joy of growing up. Often overshadowed by Ghibli’s more epic fantasy tales, this gentle coming-of-age story about a young witch finding her independence is just as powerful—and perhaps even more personally resonant.

In this review, we’ll explore what makes Kiki’s Delivery Service so beloved, from its beautiful animation to its empowering themes of self-discovery.

Plot Summary: A Witch, a City, and a Delivery Business

Kiki’s Delivery Service follows 13-year-old Kiki, a young witch-in-training who must spend a year living on her own to complete her magical education. With her talking black cat, Jiji, and her broomstick in tow, Kiki moves to the seaside city of Koriko and starts a delivery service to support herself.

As she navigates the challenges of independence, self-doubt, and burnout, Kiki’s journey becomes a quietly powerful metaphor for adolescence, creativity, and personal growth.

Themes & Genre: Coming-of-Age Magic Rooted in Real Emotion

This film may be about a witch, but its magic lies more in emotion than in spells. Kiki’s Delivery Service is a slice-of-life fantasy that explores:

• Growing pains and insecurity

• The creative burnout artists and freelancers face

• The importance of community and kindness

• Self-worth and resilience

Kiki’s flight scenes are symbolic: soaring when she’s confident, struggling when she doubts herself. It’s a deeply relatable film disguised as a whimsical fairy tale.

Character Analysis: Kiki’s Journey Is All of Ours

Kiki

Kiki is not your typical protagonist. She’s neither helpless nor overpowered—she’s simply a teenager trying to do her best. Her highs and lows feel grounded and real. Her moments of failure, particularly when she loses her ability to fly, are heartbreaking but ultimately uplifting.

Jiji

Jiji, Kiki’s cat, adds humor and contrast. In the original Japanese version, he’s sarcastic and witty—a kind of inner voice for Kiki. In the English dub, he’s more comedic, but still charming. His eventual silence represents Kiki’s maturity and shift from dependence to self-assurance.

Animation & Sound: Pure Ghibli Magic

Studio Ghibli’s artistry is on full display. The coastal town of Koriko, inspired by European cities like Stockholm and Visby, is alive with color and charm. Every background is hand-drawn with warmth and detail, making the world feel lived-in and real.

Joe Hisaishi’s score is whimsical and uplifting, perfectly capturing the film’s emotional rhythm. From the breezy flying sequences to Kiki’s quiet introspection, the music is both memorable and emotionally resonant.

Final Verdict: A Gentle Masterpiece for All Ages

Pros:

• Heartwarming, relatable coming-of-age story

• Beautiful hand-drawn animation

• Empowering message for young girls and creatives

• Great for both kids and adults

Cons:

• Some may find the plot “too slow” if expecting action

• The English dub tones down some emotional nuance

Kiki’s Delivery Service is a quiet triumph. It teaches us that losing your way is part of growing up—and that rediscovering your passion is a kind of magic all its own.

FAQs About Kiki’s Delivery Service

Is Kiki’s Delivery Service good for kids?

Absolutely. It’s one of Studio Ghibli’s most family-friendly films, with positive messages about responsibility, kindness, and self-esteem.

Is Kiki’s Delivery Service sad?

While it’s not tragic, the film does explore themes of loneliness and self-doubt. It's emotionally rich but ends on a hopeful note.

What is Kiki’s age in the movie?

Kiki is 13 years old, as per the tradition for witches-in-training in her world.

Where can I watch Kiki’s Delivery Service?

It’s available on Max (formerly HBO Max) in the U.S. and on Netflix in many international regions.