Heartwarming McDonald’s Anime Ad Features Heartfelt Studio Ghibli Reference

McDonald’s has released a charming new anime-inspired advertisement in Japan that features a surprising link to the renowned Studio Ghibli.

The fast-food chain often pays homage to popular anime series in Japan, utilizing the comforting aesthetic of the medium to attract customers. The latest campaign stands out as one of the most creative productions from McDonald’s.

Illustrated by Futatsumori Aya, the video presents various scenes of people enjoying McDonald’s food, seamlessly transitioning from one scene to another with a hand appearing to push through each moment, mimicking the experience of filming on a smartphone.

This eye-catching technique includes a scene that will be particularly familiar to Ghibli fans.

Please watch until the end. #EternalMoonviewing ※Tap to watchpic.twitter.com/uoIdWvQ4jX

— McDonald’s (@McDonaldsJapan) September 3, 2024

The fifth scene, which occurs right after two friends share burgers on a hill, references The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter, featuring an ancient bamboo gatherer who discovers a mythical young girl in a bamboo shoot.

This timeless legend inspired the anime film The Tale of the Princess Kaguya.

However, McDonald’s interpretation diverges significantly from Isao Takahata’s version, opting for a more straightforward presentation that includes what appears to be a cheeseburger in the princess’s hand—a unique twist that hasn’t typically appeared in retellings of this myth.

Regardless, it is an effective advertising strategy; the ad is memorable, distinct, and encourages viewers to watch until the end, even if they are not fans of fast food. The song ‘Mikazuki’ by Ayaka plays throughout, providing a catchy tune that makes viewers want to look up the song afterward.

It will be captivating to see if other classics like Grave of the Fireflies receive similar recognition in future campaigns. Titles such as Only Yesterday and My Neighbors the Yamadas seem more likely to be referenced first.

For updates on contemporary anime classics, be sure to check our upcoming anime list.