MHR: Comparing "Kiki's Delivery Service" English Dubs 1998 and 2010... and the book

If you notice that some of the Kiki clips are poorer quality than others it's because I am using clips from both the 2003 DVD and the 2010 Blu-ray versions.
Link to my original review: • Movie Historian Review...

[@moviefan99]

Uhh, The movie didn’t come out on Blu-ray until 2014.

[@moviehistorychannel1523]

Weird. I must have confused the 2010 DVD release with the 2014 blu-ray because they both had the same cover art. I'll have to look more into that. Thank you for pointing that out!

[@moviefan99]

@@moviehistorychannel1523 True that they do have the same cover art.

[@HydraSpectre1138]

The reedited dub did come out on DVD in 2010 first. The 2014 release uses the same edit of the dub, but in a much worse quality.

[@bennywark3103]

I like the extra Jiji lines, and having that version of the dub on Netflix makes me think that it's suppose to pay tribute to Phill Hartman, because it was his last role before he died.

[@FenrirAldebrand]

Same. The songs don't matter to me as much, but leaving out the constant quips from Jiji was so disappointing. "First don't panic, second don't panic, and THIRD did I mention NOT TO PANIC?!"

[@TwoTailedCaperer]

I prefer the Disney version over the Restored version solely due to the audio issues introduced with the Restored version. Everyone sounds like they're talking through a fan. I imagine this had to do with them cutting certain lines and the original music out of the dub without access to the original studio recordings. I think I'd prefer to have the Japanese songs remain in the film, but I'm torn over the ending with Jiji. On one hand, it was Miyazaki's intent for him to remain silent. On the other hand, Phil Hartman passed away shortly after recording his dialogue and it was one of the last projects he ever worked on, so they dedicated the dub to his memory. Something about him coming back at the end of the movie makes this a more profound memorial for him in my opinion.

[@moviehistorychannel1523]

I understand. Having Phil Hartman speak again at the ending feels more like a proper goodbye compared to Jiji just suddenly never speaking again for the rest of the film.

[@DrDolan2000]

So that's not just my copy? What is it with these second dubs, anyway? They already made one!

[@Kittsuki]

While I understand that the Disney-fied english dub was not studio ghibli's original intent, I still wish it was easier to get a hold of nowadays. The Disney version is the first one I saw and the first one that captured my imagination so it has a special place in my heart. I imagine it's a similar feeling for a lot of Americans who saw it as a kid back then, and I think that makes it worth preserving.

[@TokenChineseGuy]

The additional music in the '98 dub was superb. I'll always love that version the most.

[@mrflipperinvader7922]

The first edition disney dub of the film (one released on dvd) is so superb, no audio issues and no cut Phil Hartman lines

[@SparkpadArt]

There should be an option to listen to the English dub with or without the extra sounds of the Disney version. Best of both worlds.

[@Father_of_Death]

Someone please put the English 1998 dub on the 2013 Blu-ray video.

[@konigeurichderwestgoten4460]

Phil Hartman and Sydney Forest all the way. I’ve got the VHS tape and 2003 DVD.

[@thehorrorguy2242]

It looks like Netflix in the UK has the Disney version, with the added Phil Hartman lines and Jiji’s extra line at the end. That’s how I first saw it. It has the combination of the extra lines and superior video quality.

[@animationfanatic2133]

Same here in Netflix Spain

[@Four_by_Three]

Same in Netflix NZ. Such a shame Netflix doesn't tell you which version you're about to watch! (Let alone give you the choice)

[@Father_of_Death]

Technically, the original English dub of Kiki's Delivery Service is from 1990. It was dubbed by Streamline Pictures for Japan Airlines trans Pacific flights. It's extremely hard to find but an audio file is free to download from archive org.

[@12me91]

Can a brotha get a link?

[@Unsubscribbled]

@@12me91Here ya go. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qHO4iXSZnKeag7s

[@Marshall-Lee.]

When you said you got Kiki in Animal crossing because of this movie, I never related to a KZbin video more

[@moviehistorychannel1523]

Great minds think alike

[@ricardodavis4730]

Both versions are fine, and I own both. The Sydney Forest songs, Phil Hartman's quips, and the 1998 version overall makes the experience nostalgic, tear jerking, and magical. Cheesy, I know. But when I got the restored 2010 version, I saw the Japanese original for the first time, and I still enjoyed it a lot. I'm part Japanese, and the Japanese songs (Rouge no Dengon, Wrapped in Tenderness) were pleasant and made me tear up in a similar fashion, especially the latter song. I will say that I liked Jiji's added dialogue, as well as Ursula's more so than Kiki's lines. Thankfully, her unnecessary lines are apparent once in the first act, so it's not deal breaker.

[@kennylauderdale_en]

The DVD release of the 90's dub routinely goes for $50+. Guess people really do prefer that dub.

[@moviehistorychannel1523]

Yes! I checked the sales on Ebay and it's amazing how much they're going for!

[@littlebugp]

I feel so lucky we kept my old DVD from when I was a little kid in like 2003.

[@TwoTailedCaperer]

I was able to get one for under $40 luckily. The one that really goes for a lot of money is the Fox dubbed DVD of My Neighbor Totoro ($120+ that I've seen). However you can avoid this price by getting a Region 2 DVD of the movie, as it does include the Fox dub. You do need a region free player tho.

[@ookipuki]

@@TwoTailedCaperer fox dub totoro is just... the best. When Mei screams "YOU BETTER STOP IT RIGHT NOW!!" to the goat 🤣...

[@Gamerchick221]

I just bought it from eBay for around $40 but you’re right about the price. The highest price I saw is a copy going for around $160.

[@matthewgaudet4064]

I truly don't regret plunking down 50 dollars for the laserdisc about 17 years ago. The 1998 dub is superior sonically as well as having the original English songs and uncut Phil Hartman. Full bitrate PCM and ac3 track in higher quality than the DVD. Of course the restored picture on the Gkids version beats the laserdisc but you cannot have everything.

[@Kentama]

I'm not as much of a movie purist. The "original vision" isn't necessarily as good as someone else's interpretation. I prefer watching whichever version I find more appealing. To me, the Sydney Forrest songs of the Disney version had an original, magical quality to them that fit with the unique setting and atmosphere of the movie. The Japanese songs, in contrast, seemed to be aiming for a very particular era of 50s American music that didn't have a similar air of uniqueness or magic to them. Also, personally being familiar with both Japanese language and culture made it difficult for me to separate the Japanese-ness of the original language track with the very European setting of the film. Finally, I prefer the more heartwarming idea of Kiki still being able to talk with Jiji at the end of the Disney version as well, and am less a fan of the somewhat preachier/artsy idea of Kiki having outgrown her special friendship with Jiji. So for me, the Disney version wins out.

[@bennywark3103]

I liked the 2010 dub, mainly because it's the one I mostly watched while growing up. I'm alright with the extra dialog in the first version but I was upset that the original Japanese songs weren't played.

[@RaymundLM]

Honestly the blu Ray should had both version as an audio option. Like how Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro Release has two versions of the dub the theater released and remastered

[@MsBrendalina]

Yes! Disney should have both audio options for the Kiki and Totoro dubs! So many of us grew up with the original dubs (and IMO, the older ones are better)

[@redeye007]

The Disney dub is the 2nd English dub made for the movie. The first English dub was make for an airline and was released on laser disc.

[@Steamerthesteamtrain]

I first heard about this film from my Disney Masterpiece Collection VHS of Dumbo. I recall watching it online back in 2012, it had the I'm Gonna Fly song in it.

[@moviehistorychannel1523]

Yes, that's how I watched the Disney version too.

[@pixjst1]

I love both versions of the movie. I still have my American VHS copy, the 2003 dvd version and the Re-release bluray.

[@alestiiidaeno_last3075]

Insightful review

[@ookipuki]

10:41 this upset me the most. I didn't expect that change so when I was watching this movie for the first time in years I couldn't enjoy it. So unexpected and obnoxious.

[@rjc523]

idk about that obnoxious.

[@ShinYaguchiSama]

Great analysis! How do you have less than 300 subs… this is gold!

[@moviehistorychannel1523]

ShinYaghichiSama Thank you for your kind words!

[@supermariof0521]

No offense to your childhood friend, but the fact that he found this movie "boring", to quote Mr.Potatohead, "YOU UNCULTURED SWINE!!".

[@MMDMizuki]

I heard that there's a dub version before Disney dubbed it, I'm very curious to know what that one is like along with My Neighbor Totoro

[@Father_of_Death]

I have it. The script is more closer to the Japanese version, but the acting is nothing to write home about. But, it's definitely the highlight of the late Lisa Michelson's career and you even get Barbara Goodson as Kokiri.

[@vQueeen]

I've been thinking about getting the novel, does it go further what happens with her? Does it explain whats her witch power?

[@moviehistorychannel1523]

It was a nice read. The book basically covers the full year that Kiki is away from home. According to the book, the powers of witches are fading because not as many are choosing to follow the old traditions. Two of the old witch traditions left are flying and making potions, which is what Kiki's mom does. Kiki doesn't really have an interest in potions so flying is really all she can do. The author Eiko Kadono has published more books about Kiki since the movie came out back in 1989. I don't know if they have been published in the US but there are at least five more books out there!

[@ookipuki]

FINALLY A VIDEO ABOUT THIS! I HATE what Disney blue ray did!!!! 💔

[@lunady]

Yes yes yes! I grew up with the Disney version, and I'm honestly sad when I watch the restored version. It feels empty and lacks a lot of the charm and warmth I remember. I love watching the original Japanese, but the silence, the soundtrack, and all of the creative decisions flow well. I can't say the same for the restored version. I saw someone put it as "Ghibli-fying" the Disney dub. For sure! I believe the Disney version still conveyed all of the messages of the original but in a distinctly American way with its additions. Substituting Sydney's songs with the original score is jarring in the restored version, the lack of foley/sound effects makes the setting feel less alive and interactive to me. Again, for me, it's a difference in how the original Ghibli film flows well as it is, and that Disney, honestly, did it's *best* dub with Kiki's Delivery Service. It's my first Ghibli film. I watched it on VHS as a child, and it's what got me hooked on Ghibli films. It's the reason my parents kept buying them for me! So, I can't be more thankful for the original dub. I only wish there was a way in the 2010 release to choose between each dub.

[@moviehistorychannel1523]

Haha "Ghibli-fying"! I like that!

[@rjc523]

you cant Ghibli-fy a ghibli movie. doesnt make sense lol. imo a dub shouldnt change anything and just dub it.

[@gamecube8885]

I don't think its about which is better, the problem is only 1 of these versions are easily available.

[@melanopygus]

I got the Blu ray a year ago and the audio distortion is so bad it hurts my ears

[@Zer0C00L]

it's odd, the Disney version of the dub is currently on Netflix in Canada.

[@moviehistorychannel1523]

Wow. Is it HD of is it the old DVD quality?

[@Zer0C00L]

@@moviehistorychannel1523 it's HD. I also have the Japanese BluRay import and as others have commented, the dialog is more representative of the Japanese version (in English dub), Kiki sounds like her face is running through a fan through out the whole film.

[@moviehistorychannel1523]

@@Zer0C00L Yes, I've been seeing people comment about Kiki's voice, but strangely, I've never had that problem. Or at least, I've never noticed it. I own the Collected Works of Hayao Miyazaki bluray. Maybe the problem with Kiki's voice was fixed for that box set? Idk. I'll try to keep an eye out for it the next time I watch it. As for the Disney Version being shown on Netflix, in Canada, in HD, I think many of us here in the US would love to see that version! I think many are hoping that the Disney Version gets a rerelease in the US, at some point, in HD, which is unlikely in my opinion. But it's awesome that Netflix, in Canada, enhanced it!

[@brandonlyon730]

Wasn’t there also a Japanese live-action movie adaptation of the book not long ago? Haven’t heard much good about it though.

[@moviehistorychannel1523]

Yes there was. I've seen the trailer and wasn't too impressed.

[@bigboobz]

They cut out Ursula handing Kiki gum. Why?? And they cut out that guy who picked them up when they were trying to hitch-hike. He goes, “Ursula, is that you?! I didn’t recognize you, I thought you were a boy!” I’m sad they cut that out. It made Ursula seem connected to her community, she knew this guy, revealing that she’s lived there for a while and knew her neighbors. It added to her character. Also, they cut out Barsa pretending to fly Kiki’s broom! 😢

[@gamecube8885]

0:38 Boring? to a wholesome Studio Ghibli film? Bro, who Hurt you, your friend desperately needed a hug.

[@EdwardTheMedievalist]

I'm surprised you didn't talk about the Streamline version English Dub. I think that version sticks closer to the Japanese dub imo.

[@CuriousCave128]

You should try the Japanese dub with subtitles next. Just keep in mind that the 2010 subs aren't accurate.

[@moviehistorychannel1523]

I've seen the Japanese dub. Are you asking me to compare the Japanese version to the 2010 version?

[@CuriousCave128]

@@moviehistorychannel1523 That, or there might be bigger differences between the Japanese and the 1998 dub. Ether way would be interesting though.

[@moviehistorychannel1523]

​@@CuriousCave128 I will need to watch them again and see if there is enough material to work with that I haven't covered already, but I will do my best. It may also take a while too because I have other projects going on that are taking up my time. Thanks!

[@CuriousCave128]

@@moviehistorychannel1523 No problem! If it wont work it's no big deal. I just thought it might be a fun video.

[@that1dbacksfan354]

The og Japanese audio is still the best

[@dragonheart2272]

Even though I lean more towards the original dub for nostalgic purpouses, I wouldn't have any issues with the re-release if it wasn't for the awful audio transitions. The Blu Ray's audio sounds so distorted that I thought there was something wrong with my TV the first time I watched it. Come to realize everyone had this problem with the Blu Ray. Disney should release this one last time with those audio issues fixed.

[@Father_of_Death]

Disney doesn't have the rights anymore they sold them to GKIDS.

[@ookipuki]

9:14 YES!!!!! 😭

[@ecofreak7524]

Despite growing up with the original dub with English songs, I actually prefer the restored 2010 version. I appreciate the moments of silence and like the Japanese songs. I don’t need constant dialog or witty comments from Jiji. Just my opinion! But I loved the Fox dub of Totoro.

[@danielsvetlichny5721]

Let me clarify something. I have only seen Kiki's Delivery Service in the 2010 Blu Ray re-release. Please don't get angry at me and fetching torches and pitchforks and saying, "You wretched villain! How dare you say the Blu Ray is better!" I have not seen the 1998 VHS and the 2003 DVD of the film, my mostly because I haven't heard about 'tis film. I feel as if 'tis Blu Ray re-release is more superior than the formers that I have mentioned. Say what you will about Jiji not able to talk to Kiki in the end. I feel as if whence Kiki has gotten her magic back, she still cannot talk to Jiji. However, as time moves on, as Kiki improves and getting better at her magic, she finally can talk to Jiji for quite a good whilst.

[@moviehistorychannel1523]

Everyone is entitled to their own opinion :) Like I said in the review, I tend to lean more towards the Restored Version, as well, since it was the one I first saw. I didn't even know there was a Disney Version until after I reviewed it on my channel back in 2019. The commenters filled me in on that. I will admit, though, the Disney Version is growing on me more and I do recommend checking it out if you want to make a comparison. But you're allowed to like whichever version you like!

[@danielsvetlichny5721]

Thank you, friend.

[@V.U.4six]

Does the audio sound off though? People are complaining about there being an audio issue like a weird “speaking through a fan” or reverb etc That is my biggest concern

[@moviehistorychannel1523]

@@V.U.4six I never noticed but I wasn't really looking for it either

[@melanopygus]

@@V.U.4six It's definitely there. All my friends noticed it too. I have sensitive hearing so maybe that's why it bothers me so much.

[@MrX-kq6zm]

Well anyway, the truest form to watch a Studio Ghibli movie is in japanese with sub. Non english version i saw came even close to the original japanese Version!

[@cursedfox4942]

The biggest problem is Jijis voice in the English version they really screwed jiji up BAD

[@atheistechoes9594]

I was born in 1998

[@123rockfan]

I prefer Jiji way more in the original Japanese version. I’m a fan of Hartman but I think he was completely miscast

[@masudaharris6435]

I never cared for the English version with Phil Hartman dubbing Jiji's lines. Miyazaki should have never allowed it.

[@tims.2717]

Nah! I'll just stick to the Japanese version. Not really a fan of Disney's earlier dub attempts at Studio Ghibli films.

[@monochromemiku7983]

As someone who originally watched the Japanese version and only learned about the Disney version more recently.... I kinda hate it. Reeks of Disney meddling with things they don't understand, like the ruined ending where Jiji starts to talk again. It's not their movie to change.

[@moviehistorychannel1523]

That's fair

[@monochromemiku7983]

@@moviehistorychannel1523 Great video though :D

[@rjc523]

cant remember which one i watched as a kid. but i do hate unneeded changes in dubs and god imagine disney doing it nowaday. the horror lol.

[@Khrrck]

@@rjc523 If you watched it before 2010 on VHS/DVD you saw the original Disney dub. The only other English dub at that point was the Streamline Pictures dub which I believe was only available on a Japanese laserdisc.

[@bmw128racer]

IMO, watching a foreign film with a dub rather than in its actual spoken language (with subtitles) is a disservice to the film.

[@rjc523]

i disagree. the dub should be as close as possible to og thou.

[@MsBrendalina]

But a kids movie like Kiki's Delivery Service is better dubbed because its easier for kids to follow

[@bmw128racer]

@@MsBrendalina True. The problem is that the dub changed the music and some of the dialog that wasn't true to the original.