As a fan of Studio Ghibli's movies, I couldn't help but fall in love with the cute cat from Kiki's Delivery Service. This black cat with a white spot on its chest stole the hearts of many viewers, including mine. In this article, I want to share with you some interesting facts about this feline character and why it's so beloved.
The Name
The cat from Kiki's Delivery Service doesn't have an official name. In the movie, Kiki simply calls it "Kitty" or "Little One." However, many fans have given it various names, such as Jiji, which is the name of the cat in the original Japanese novel by Eiko Kadono.
The Personality
Jiji is not just a cute cat, but also a loyal friend and companion to Kiki. He's sassy, sarcastic, and sometimes a bit lazy, but he always has Kiki's back. His facial expressions and body language are also very expressive, making him a memorable character.
The Voice
In the English dub of Kiki's Delivery Service, Jiji is voiced by Phil Hartman. Hartman's performance added a lot of humor and personality to the character, making him even more endearing. Unfortunately, Hartman passed away before the movie was released in the US, making Kiki's Delivery Service his last film credit.
The Inspiration
The cat from Kiki's Delivery Service was inspired by a real-life black cat that belonged to Hayao Miyazaki, the director of the movie. Miyazaki's cat was also named Jiji and had a similar personality to the one in the movie. Interestingly, Miyazaki's cat was also the inspiration for the cat bus in My Neighbor Totoro.
The Merchandise
Jiji's popularity led to a lot of merchandise featuring the character. You can find Jiji plushies, keychains, mugs, and even a Jiji-shaped tea infuser. Fans of the movie love to collect these items as a way to show their love for the cute cat.
The Legacy
Kiki's Delivery Service was released in 1989, but Jiji's popularity hasn't faded over the years. The movie and its characters continue to inspire new generations of fans. Jiji's lovable personality and cute design make him a timeless character that people will always cherish.
Jiji Plushie
This soft and cuddly plushie is perfect for any fan of Kiki's Delivery Service. It's made of high-quality materials and features Jiji's signature white spot on his chest.
Jiji Mug
This ceramic mug is perfect for enjoying a warm cup of tea or coffee. It features a cute design of Jiji and Kiki flying on a broomstick.
Jiji Keychain
This keychain is a great way to show your love for Jiji wherever you go. It's made of durable materials and features a 3D design of Jiji's head.
Jiji Tea Infuser
This tea infuser is shaped like Jiji and is perfect for brewing loose-leaf tea. It's made of food-grade silicone and is easy to clean.
Jiji T-Shirt
This cute and stylish t-shirt features a minimalist design of Jiji's head. It's made of comfortable cotton and is available in various sizes.
Jiji Phone Case
This phone case features a cute and colorful design of Jiji and Kiki. It's compatible with various phone models and is made of durable materials.
FAQ:
- Q: What breed is Jiji?
- Q: Is Jiji a boy or a girl?
- Q: Why doesn't Jiji talk to Kiki at the end of the movie?
- Q: What other movies has Jiji appeared in?
- Q: What is the significance of Jiji's white spot?
- Q: Is Jiji a magical cat?
- Q: What is Jiji's favorite food?
- Q: Will Jiji ever get his own spin-off movie?
A: Jiji is a fictional cat and doesn't belong to any specific breed.
A: In the movie, Jiji is referred to as a "he" by Kiki.
A: It's implied that Jiji has lost his ability to speak after spending too much time with other cats.
A: Jiji only appears in Kiki's Delivery Service.
A: The white spot on Jiji's chest is a unique feature that makes him stand out from other black cats. It also adds to his cute and memorable design.
A: Jiji is not a magical cat, but he does have a strong bond with Kiki, who is a witch.
A: Jiji's favorite food is fish, as shown in the movie.
A: As of now, there are no plans for a Jiji spin-off movie. However, fans can still enjoy his adorable and funny moments in Kiki's Delivery Service.
Tips:
If you're a fan of Jiji and Kiki's Delivery Service, you can show your love for the movie by wearing a Jiji t-shirt, displaying a Jiji plushie on your desk, or using a Jiji mug for your morning coffee.
Conclusion:
The cat from Kiki's Delivery Service may not have an official name, but it has certainly made a name for itself in the hearts of fans. Jiji's cute design, lovable personality, and memorable moments have made him a beloved character that people will always cherish.