Jeff Wexler (Chief, International at Studio Ponoc and former Chief, International/Board Director and current consultant at Studio Ghibli) joins us from Tokyo to share insights into successfully bringing culturally specific stories to global audiences. Studio Ghibli (SPIRITED AWAY, MY NEIGHBOR TOTORO, PRINCESS MONONOKE, among many other celebrated films) and Studio Ponoc (MARY AND THE WITCH’S FLOWER) are world-renowned for their ability to break into international markets and take seemingly unique Japanese stories worldwide. Jeff will share his ideas on embracing film localisation during the creative process and how doing so has supported growth of the global phenomenon that is Studio Ghibli and the launch of Studio Ponoc.

Drawing on films from Studio Ghibli and Studio Ponoc, Jeff will delve into internationalising IP, the nuances of dubbing and subtitling, and the importance of building—and sticking to—a philosophy for localisation that prioritises creative integrity.

The talk will be followed by a special private screening of Studio Ponoc’s latest production, the anthology feature MODEST HEROES: PONOC SHORT FILM THEATRE, VOLUME 1 (53 mins).

5:45pm Networking & cash bar ($2 off wine and beer)
6:30pm-8:30pm - Talk + Q&A (60mins) and screening (53mins)

Studio Ponoc’s debut feature MARY AND THE WITCH’S FLOWER is available on digital platforms (iTunes, Microsoft Online and Google Play) and DVD/Blu-ray. If you haven’t already seen it, Jeff suggests watching the dubbed version of the film ahead of his talk.

Thanks to New Zealand Film Commission for their generous support.