The animated short film accompanying Kiki’s Delivery Service in its original theatrical release in Japan was “Mei and the Kittenbus” (めいとこねこバス, Mei to Konekobasu). This delightful short, written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki himself, expands upon the magical world established in My Neighbor Totoro and features the beloved character Mei Kusakabe.
A Journey Back to the Enchanted Forest: Discovering “Mei and the Kittenbus”
While many international viewers know Kiki’s Delivery Service as a standalone feature, Japanese audiences experienced a double feature, enriched by the charming presence of “Mei and the Kittenbus.” This short is not a prequel or sequel, but rather a separate, self-contained story featuring Mei.
The plot revolves around Mei meeting a small, baby Kittenbus one stormy night. She invites it into her house, and their friendship blossoms. Eventually, they join a gathering of various Catbuses, culminating in a ride on the larger Totoro Catbus through the night sky. The short is characterized by its whimsical animation, heartwarming themes of friendship, and a gentle, playful tone typical of Miyazaki’s earlier works.
The Significance of a Double Feature
The decision to pair Kiki’s Delivery Service with “Mei and the Kittenbus” was a strategic one, designed to offer audiences a complete and satisfying experience. By showcasing two distinct yet thematically resonant stories, Studio Ghibli aimed to further cement their reputation for creating captivating and imaginative animation for all ages. The short, in particular, provided a lighter counterpoint to the more narrative-driven Kiki’s Delivery Service, offering a dose of pure, unadulterated joy.
Where to Watch “Mei and the Kittenbus”
Unfortunately, “Mei and the Kittenbus” is not widely available outside of Japan. Its screenings are primarily limited to the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Tokyo. This exclusivity adds to its allure and makes a viewing a highly sought-after experience for Ghibli fans. While bootleg versions may exist online, viewing them is discouraged due to copyright concerns and the typically poor quality of unauthorized recordings. The best way to experience the short is to plan a trip to the Ghibli Museum.
Frequently Asked Questions about “Mei and the Kittenbus”
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding the short film, “Mei and the Kittenbus,” to further clarify its details and history:
FAQ 1: Is “Mei and the Kittenbus” a sequel to My Neighbor Totoro?
No, it’s not a direct sequel. While it features Mei Kusakabe from My Neighbor Totoro, it stands as a separate short film with its own self-contained story and themes. It builds upon the world and characters established in Totoro but doesn’t continue the narrative.
FAQ 2: Why isn’t “Mei and the Kittenbus” readily available outside of Japan?
The Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Tokyo holds exclusive screening rights to the short film. This decision was likely made to encourage visitors to the museum and create a unique and memorable experience for Ghibli fans. Licensing and distribution complexities could also play a role.
FAQ 3: Can I find “Mei and the Kittenbus” on Blu-ray or DVD?
Currently, there are no official Blu-ray or DVD releases of “Mei and the Kittenbus” available outside of Japan. Any versions you find online are likely unauthorized and potentially of poor quality.
FAQ 4: What age group is “Mei and the Kittenbus” suitable for?
Like most Ghibli films, “Mei and the Kittenbus” is suitable for all ages. Its simple story, charming characters, and gentle humor make it particularly appealing to young children. However, adults can also appreciate its artistic merit and heartwarming themes.
FAQ 5: How long is “Mei and the Kittenbus”?
The short film has a runtime of approximately 14 minutes.
FAQ 6: Did Hayao Miyazaki direct “Mei and the Kittenbus”?
Yes, Hayao Miyazaki both wrote and directed “Mei and the Kittenbus”. This further emphasizes its connection to his other renowned works and adds to its significance for Ghibli enthusiasts.
FAQ 7: Are there any English subtitles available for “Mei and the Kittenbus” at the Ghibli Museum?
The Ghibli Museum provides English subtitles during screenings of “Mei and the Kittenbus,” making it accessible to international visitors who don’t understand Japanese.
FAQ 8: What themes does “Mei and the Kittenbus” explore?
The short film explores themes of friendship, wonder, imagination, and the connection between humans and nature. These are common themes found throughout Miyazaki’s filmography.
FAQ 9: Is the Kittenbus similar to the Catbus in My Neighbor Totoro?
Yes, the Kittenbus is essentially a smaller, baby version of the iconic Catbus from My Neighbor Totoro. It shares the same whimsical design and ability to transform into a vehicle.
FAQ 10: Does “Mei and the Kittenbus” have any connections to other Ghibli films besides My Neighbor Totoro and Kiki’s Delivery Service?
While not directly connected in terms of plot or characters, “Mei and the Kittenbus” shares the same visual style and thematic concerns as many other Ghibli films, particularly those focused on childhood innocence and the magic of the natural world.
FAQ 11: Is it guaranteed that “Mei and the Kittenbus” will be playing at the Ghibli Museum when I visit?
The Ghibli Museum rotates the short films they screen. While “Mei and the Kittenbus” is a frequent choice, it’s not guaranteed to be playing during your visit. Check the museum’s schedule closer to your travel dates for confirmation.
FAQ 12: What makes “Mei and the Kittenbus” so special for Ghibli fans?
Beyond its charming story and beautiful animation, “Mei and the Kittenbus” holds a special place in the hearts of Ghibli fans because it represents a rare and exclusive viewing experience. Its limited availability makes it a cherished gem for those who have had the opportunity to see it, further enriching their appreciation for Miyazaki’s work and the world of Studio Ghibli. The exclusivity combined with the short’s inherent charm creates a highly desirable viewing experience for dedicated fans.