Nearly 40 years after its original release, Hayao Miyazaki’s Laputa: Castle in the Sky returns to the big screen in Vietnam from September 25, 2026. It was the first feature film produced by Studio Ghibli after the studio was founded in 1985.
What Makes Laputa: Castle in the Sky So Appealing?
The film follows Pazu and Sheeta on their search for Laputa, a legendary flying castle hidden in the sky. The mysterious stone Sheeta carries is linked to Laputa, putting the pair on the run from both the military and a gang of sky pirates.
The film’s appeal lies not only in the adventure but also in its meticulously hand-drawn fantasy world. Flying machines, a city in the sky, lush nature and action sequences create a distinctive steampunk style that still keeps Miyazaki’s poetic touch.
Laputa also places people, technology and nature in the same story. The flying castle isn’t just a treasure; it becomes Miyazaki’s way of questioning power and responsibility when humans possess technology beyond their ability to control.
The Team Behind the Film
Laputa: Castle in the Sky was written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki, produced by Isao Takahata, with music by Joe Hisaishi. This collaboration laid the foundation for Studio Ghibli’s later storytelling, visual and musical style.
Is Laputa Worth Seeing in Theaters?
With its richly detailed hand-drawn visuals and Joe Hisaishi’s score, Laputa: Castle in the Sky is perfect for enjoying on the big screen. The re-release is also a chance for younger audiences to discover one of the films that laid the foundation for Studio Ghibli.