Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)

Brief Intro

“Kiki’s Delivery Service” is a charming and heartwarming 1989 animated film directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki. The story follows a young witch named Kiki who, at the age of 13, leaves her home to embark on a year-long journey of self-discovery and independence. She settles in a picturesque seaside town and starts a delivery service on her broomstick, facing various challenges and making new friends along the way. This film beautifully captures themes of growth, resilience, and the importance of community.

Literary Devices Used in Kiki’s Delivery Service

Metaphor

Movie SceneDevice Example
Kiki struggling to fly after losing confidenceKiki’s broomstick represents her sense of self and confidence.
Osono’s bakery as a home and businessThe bakery symbolizes a place of warmth and community.

Symbolism

Movie SceneDevice Example
Kiki’s radioThe radio symbolizes her connection to her family and home.
Jiji losing the ability to talkJiji’s silence symbolizes Kiki’s growing independence and maturity.

Foreshadowing

Movie SceneDevice Example
Kiki’s first flight with Tombo’s admirationForeshadows their eventual friendship and Kiki’s influence on him.
Kiki helping OsonoHints at Kiki’s role in the community and her future delivery service.

Irony

Movie SceneDevice Example
Kiki feeling like a failure while delivering a giftThe irony lies in her feeling inadequate while performing an act of kindness and service.
Tombo’s enthusiasm about flying while Kiki strugglesHighlights the difference in their perspectives on flying.

Allusion

Movie SceneDevice Example
Kiki’s red shoesAlludes to the classic image of a witch, connecting Kiki to traditional folklore.
The dirigible airshipA nod to the industrial age and human ambition to conquer the skies.

Personification

Movie SceneDevice Example
Jiji, the cat, talking and expressing emotionsJiji’s ability to speak personifies him, making him a confidant for Kiki.
The broomstick’s erratic behaviorThe broomstick’s reactions symbolize Kiki’s internal emotional state.

Hyperbole

Movie SceneDevice Example
Kiki’s dramatic fall during a flightExaggerates her fear and loss of confidence.
Tombo’s ecstatic reaction to meeting KikiAmplifies his enthusiasm and admiration for her.

Imagery

Movie SceneDevice Example
The picturesque town Kiki moves toVivid descriptions and visuals create a charming and inviting setting.
Kiki flying over the ocean at sunsetEvokes a sense of freedom and adventure.

Simile

Movie SceneDevice Example
Kiki’s flying described as smooth as a birdComparisons highlight her natural flying ability.
Kiki’s broom falling like a stoneEmphasizes the sudden loss of control and confidence.

Motif

Movie SceneDevice Example
Kiki’s repeated flightsThe motif of flying symbolizes her journey towards independence.
Kiki’s deliveriesRecurring deliveries highlight her growing role in the community.

Character Analysis Through Literary Devices

Character Studies

Kiki
Literary DeviceExplanation
SymbolismKiki’s broomstick symbolizes her confidence and growth.
IronyKiki feels inadequate while delivering a gift, highlighting her internal struggles despite her external kindness.
Jiji
Literary DeviceExplanation
PersonificationJiji’s ability to speak represents Kiki’s childhood dependence.
SymbolismJiji’s silence symbolizes Kiki’s growing independence.
Tombo
Literary DeviceExplanation
MetaphorTombo’s passion for flying represents human aspiration and the desire to reach new heights.
ForeshadowingTombo’s early fascination with Kiki’s flying foreshadows their friendship.

Character Dynamics

Kiki and Tombo’s relationship is a central dynamic that evolves from mutual curiosity to genuine friendship. This relationship drives the narrative by showcasing Kiki’s impact on others and highlighting themes of companionship and mutual growth. Osono, the bakery owner, acts as a maternal figure to Kiki, symbolizing the support and warmth of community. Their interactions emphasize themes of kindness and belonging.

Thematic Analysis

Independence and Self-Discovery

DeviceExplanation
SymbolismKiki’s broomstick and her ability to fly symbolize her journey of self-discovery and independence.
ImageryVivid descriptions of Kiki’s flights highlight her growth and freedom.

Community and Belonging

DeviceExplanation
ForeshadowingEarly scenes of Kiki helping others hint at her eventual role in the community.
MotifRepeated scenes of Kiki’s deliveries underscore her integration into the town.

Resilience and Perseverance

DeviceExplanation
MetaphorKiki’s struggles with flying represent her internal battles and resilience.
IronySituations where Kiki feels like a failure while helping others highlight her perseverance.

Cinematic Techniques That Enhance Literary Devices

Literary DeviceTechniqueExplanation
ImageryAnimation styleThe film’s vibrant and detailed animation brings the settings and characters to life.
SymbolismColor paletteThe use of color enhances the symbolic elements, such as Kiki’s red shoes.
IronySound designThe juxtaposition of cheerful music with Kiki’s moments of doubt adds layers to the narrative.
PersonificationVoice actingJiji’s voice acting brings out his personality and relationship with Kiki.

Key Scene Analysis

Kiki’s First Flight

  • Scene Breakdown: Kiki’s first flight is filled with excitement and trepidation, capturing the essence of her journey.
  • YouTube Link: Kiki’s First Flight (Ensure the link works and is embeddable)
  • Analysis: This scene uses vibrant imagery and symbolism to highlight Kiki’s initial confidence and enthusiasm, setting the stage for her journey.

Kiki Losing Her Powers

  • Scene Breakdown: Kiki’s loss of powers represents her crisis of confidence.
  • YouTube Link: Kiki Loses Her Powers (Ensure the link works and is embeddable)
  • Analysis: The use of muted colors and slower pacing emphasizes her emotional turmoil and the gravity of her loss.

The Airship Rescue

  • Scene Breakdown: The climactic rescue scene showcases Kiki’s regained confidence and determination.
  • YouTube Link: Airship Rescue (Ensure the link works and is embeddable)
  • Analysis: Combining dynamic animation and intense music, this scene underscores themes of resilience and heroism.

Conclusion

Interactive Multiple Choice Quiz

  1. What does Kiki’s broomstick symbolize?
    • A) Her independence
    • B) Her family
    • C) Her magic
    • D) Her pet cat
  2. Which literary device is used when Jiji stops talking?
  3. What theme is highlighted through Kiki’s deliveries?
    • A) Adventure
    • B) Resilience
    • C) Belonging
    • D) Magic
  4. Which cinematic technique enhances the irony in Kiki’s feelings of inadequacy?
    • A) Color palette
    • B) Sound design
    • C) Animation style
    • D) Voice acting
  5. Who acts as a maternal figure to Kiki?
    • A) Tombo
    • B) Jiji
    • C) Osono
    • D) Ursula
Index