I got to make some color palettes for the best animation studio around, Studio Ghibli, to promote their newest and, sadly, last film When Marnie Was There. They’ve done Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away and many other amazing films and are masters at using color.
I am very stoked that the kind people at LOVE featured the palettes as a brief retrospective. Check out their post and read a bit about each palette below.
When Marnie Was There
Natural settings are highlighted in both palettes for when Marnie Was There. Each still’s location is vibrantly represented. From the yellows and bright greens in the forest to the bright blues and turquoises of the seascape, there is a clear intention to let the environment take center stage.
Ponyo
One of the more boldly colorful and childlike films, Ponyo masterfully combines a multitude of bright colors fitting for its universe. There is also an inherent softness to the colors that helps them all blend together, despite their boldness.
Laputa Castle in the Sky
The palette for this still from Castle in the Sky shows a versatile way to paint a night scene. The purple and blue hues are inviting but suggest depth, action and contrast nicely with the characters’ faces. The overall palette communicates night-time without overusing dark colors and blends purple hues effortlessly.
Princess Mononoke
Based on primary colors, this still from Princess Mononoke feels bold and eye-catching. By putting the character of San front and center and setting a mood with the fiery bold background, this still effectively communicates emotion through its palette.
Spirited Away
Spirited Away carefully combines dark and light hues and a contrast of colors to tell its story. The interior of the train feels cold and foreboding and uses darker tones of bright colors (reds, purples) to give the audience a sense of the unusual. The outside is vibrant and clear, using blue to create a peaceful and bright atmosphere.
Only Yesterday
This still from Only Yesterday captures a mood through its use of color. The peaceful and beautiful setting is achieved by combining mostly blues, greens, and yellows in both the field and the sky, unifying the frame and reflecting a sense of peace.
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