Jiji

Studio Ghibli toys and model kits are some of the most consistent releases when it comes to beauty, design, packaging and execution. I can see Hayao Miyazaki at his desk personally approving or disapproving toy prototypes of his characters.

Honestly I have never seen a bad Studio Ghibi or Hayao Miyazki related toy ever. Somehow each release captures the graceful and delicate lines and character of his drawings. This plush release of Jiji from Kiki’s Delivery Service is no exception.

This release features Kiki’s faithful friend Jiji, a witch’s black cat that apparently only Kiki can hear talk. Kiki is a young witch in training who at the age of 13 has to leave her family and town behind and complete her witch training by herself. Personally I believe that Kiki’s Delivery Service is Miyazaki’s greatest film and when I saw this plush I had to have it.

First off this toy was not expensive as I paid $6.00 for it a few weeks ago from a dealer at Frank & Sons in City of Industry. Jiji stands about 8 ½ high and is mostly made up of a thick black fabric and the nose and eyes made up of plastic. It also has a suction cup to hang up on a mirror or glass window in ones car.

Enough of the stats, this toy has character and personality! The designers captured the essence of Jiji beautifully, however one looks at it one cannot help but smile. I generally do not display my collection in the living room or kitchen but Jiji prominently displayed on my kitchen table next to my bottle of Duval and everybody who visits my home always comments on my faithful Jiji. A beautiful toy that I highly suggest purchasing.