The work of Isao Takahata and Yoshiyuki Momose together represents decades of stunning artistry from two of Japan’s most influential animators. Takahata, co-founder of Studio Ghibli alongside Hayao Miyazaki, brought his unique vision as director to classic animated works like Grave of the Fireflies and The Tale of The Princess Kaguya. Yoshiyuki Momose, a vital animator and longtime collaborator of Takahata, contributed his remarkable talents to many of Takahata’s key films. Their work together inspired a generation of animators, and paved the way for Studio Ponoc, founded in 2014 by Yoshiaki Nishimura. This new chapter in animation allowed Momose to step into the role of director in this year’s wondrous The Imaginary.

The Bay Theater is proud to present Masters of Memory: The Films of Takahata and Momose, a journey through some of the most enduring films brought to us by the work of these two masters. The films, which include delightful tales for the whole family as well as haunting visions of a world in crisis, are essential for audiences captivated by the endless possibilities of animation.

All screenings in this series will feature an exclusive, pre-recorded introduction by Yoshiyuki Momose.

All films will be shown in their English-language versions, except for Grave of the Fireflies, which will be presented in Japanese with English-language subtitles.