We all know that both of these films were released as a double feature in 1988. Unfortunately, at least partly due to unfathomable level of tone mismatch, both films didn't actually do well theatrically.
What is your take on this? Do you think Ghibli made a bad decision by doing this? Why or why not?
Totoro didn't do so well in theaters, so I'm guessing it had something to do with it. Then again, I've never been to a double feature, and really would not look forward to spending that much time in a theater for any movie.
Maybe they thought each movie wasn't strong enough to stand on it's own. Both movies are unique in many regards, but they knew they were taking a risk with them.
So, yeah maybe things could have been worse if they released the movies separately. I don't know if there is a strategy that would have made both films perform better at the box office, but I would like to see how other people would have handled this.
--Will.
I'd say probably.
Usually, with a double feature, you'd want movies in similar tone. Or at least not so wildly different.
You are sin.
I imagine it's a good idea. I haven't watched Grave of the Fireflies yet, but I hear it's great. I have seen My Neighbor Totoro.
Metallica, Iron Maiden and My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic fan.