Some kinds of movie magic never get old, and Studio Ghibli's films are exactly that type. Understandably, a whole heap of Melbourne cinemas, indoors and out, have agreed with that idea over the years — and the Japanese animation house's flicks are rarely far from a screen around the Victorian capital. Your latest chance to catch one of the studio's delights comes courtesy of Federation Square, as part of its all-ages programming over the Easter school holidays. From Monday, April 14–Thursday, April 17, 2025, Studio Ghibli's gorgeous features will grace the location's big screen. Yes, you should make like a moving castle to see Howl's Moving Castle. And yes, you'll be palling around with My Neighbour Totoro, too. Other highlights include Spirited Away, Laputa: Castle in the Sky, Pom Poko, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, The Cat Returns and Whisper of the Heart. Two films are playing daily, with the doubles running back to back from 2pm — and heading along is free. If you've missed these pictures in their limited cinema runs or fest appearances in the past, consider this your chance to catch up. Sure, you might've seen everything that Studio Ghibli has made before, but these movies really are something extra special when they're flickering across the silver screen. At Fed Square, you can either sit in deckchairs or BYO camping seat or picnic rug. For choc tops, popcorn and drinks, there's a snack bar near ACMI's entrance. And yes, this does sound like the perfect excuse — magical even — to finish work early.
