Mary and The Witch’s Flower (2017) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Mary and The Witch’s Flower (2017) is a charming animated fantasy film directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi and produced by Studio Ponoc. The film is often noted for its whimsical and enchanting story, reminiscent of classic Studio Ghibli films. Featuring a unique blend of magic, adventure, and self-discovery, Mary and The Witch’s Flower is a visually captivating film with a distinctive style.
Plot Summary
The story follows Mary Smith (voiced by Ruby Barnhill in the English version), a young girl who discovers a mysterious flower known as the “Fly-by-Night” while exploring the woods near her great-aunt’s house. This flower grants her magical powers for one night, leading her to a hidden magical academy called Endor College.
At Endor College, Mary encounters a range of magical beings and learns about the darker side of the academy, including the ambitions of its headmistress, Madame Mumblechook (voiced by Kate Winslet in the English version) and the eccentric Professor D (voiced by Jim Piddock). As Mary delves deeper into the world of magic, she must confront the dangers posed by the academy and use her newfound abilities to protect her friends and herself.
The film combines elements of fantasy and adventure with themes of personal growth and courage. Mary’s journey through the magical world and her struggle against the academy’s darker forces form the heart of the story.
Critical Reception
Mary and The Witch’s Flower received positive reviews for its animation, storytelling, and nostalgic appeal. The film was praised for its high-quality visuals and imaginative world-building.
Strengths:
- Animation and Visuals: The film’s animation is vibrant and detailed, showcasing Studio Ponoc’s commitment to high-quality visuals. The magical landscapes and imaginative character designs contribute to the film’s enchanting atmosphere.
- Storytelling: The film offers a well-paced and engaging narrative with a blend of adventure, magic, and personal discovery. The story’s themes of courage and self-empowerment resonate with audiences of all ages.
- Nostalgia and Style: Mary and The Witch’s Flower is often compared to the works of Studio Ghibli, particularly those of Hayao Miyazaki. The film’s aesthetic and storytelling style evoke a sense of nostalgia for fans of classic animated fantasies.
Weaknesses:
- Character Depth: Some critics felt that the film’s characters, particularly the supporting ones, could have been more developed. While the main character, Mary, is well-rounded, some secondary characters lack depth.
- Plot Familiarity: The story’s elements may feel familiar to viewers who are accustomed to classic magical adventures. While the film offers a charming experience, its plot does not significantly deviate from established fantasy tropes.
Overall, Mary and The Witch’s Flower is celebrated for its enchanting animation and engaging fantasy elements. It successfully captures the spirit of classic animated adventures while introducing a fresh, new story.
Themes and Analysis
Mary and The Witch’s Flower explores several themes:
- Self-Discovery and Growth: Mary’s journey is a central theme of the film, focusing on her personal growth and the discovery of her own strengths. Her experiences in the magical world lead to greater self-awareness and confidence.
- Courage and Heroism: The film emphasizes the importance of courage in the face of adversity. Mary’s bravery in confronting the dangers of the magical academy highlights the theme of heroism and the power of determination.
- Magic and Wonder: The magical world of Endor College serves as a backdrop for the story, emphasizing themes of wonder and the allure of the unknown. The film’s visual style and imaginative elements contribute to its sense of magic and enchantment.
- Good vs. Evil: The conflict between the benevolent and malevolent forces within the magical academy underscores the classic theme of good versus evil. Mary’s struggle against the academy’s darker ambitions drives the film’s narrative.
Where to Watch Mary and The Witch’s Flower Online
If you’re interested in watching Mary and The Witch’s Flower (2017), here are some options:
1. Streaming Services
- Hulu: Mary and The Witch’s Flower is available for streaming on Hulu. Subscribers can watch the film as part of their subscription package.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film may also be available on Amazon Prime Video as part of their streaming library.
2. Rental/Purchase Services
- Amazon Video: You can rent or purchase Mary and The Witch’s Flower on Amazon Video. Rental prices typically start around $3.99, with purchase options available for approximately $14.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google Play offers rental and purchase options for Mary and The Witch’s Flower. Rentals generally cost around $3.99, while purchasing the film starts at about $14.99.
- Apple iTunes: Mary and The Witch’s Flower is available for rental or purchase on Apple iTunes. Rentals usually cost about $3.99, and purchasing the film generally costs $14.99.
- Vudu: Vudu provides rental and purchase options for Mary and The Witch’s Flower. Rental prices are similar to other platforms, starting around $3.99, and purchasing the film generally costs about $14.99.
Conclusion
Mary and The Witch’s Flower (2017) is a delightful animated film that captures the essence of magical adventures with its stunning visuals and engaging story. Directed by Hiromasa Yonebayashi and produced by Studio Ponoc, the film offers a nostalgic nod to classic animated fantasies while presenting a fresh and charming tale.
With its vibrant animation, imaginative world, and themes of courage and self-discovery, Mary and The Witch’s Flower provides an enchanting viewing experience for audiences of all ages. Available on various streaming and rental platforms, the film is easily accessible for those looking to immerse themselves in a magical adventure.
