Friday 18 November 2011

My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

Hey everyone,
I posted a review of Spirited Away earlier today and decided to review another Miyazaki film, the family-friendly My Neighbor Totoro.

Plot: Satuski and her sister Mei are moving with their father are moving to the an old rural home in Japan, while their mother recovers in the hospital from an unnamed illness. While exploring their home, the sisters encounter soot sprites. Another day, while playing outside, Mei sees two rabbit-like creatures and follows them into a patch, leading to the hollow of a large tree. There, she encounters a larger version of the spirits, who identifies himself as Totoro (this is how Mi interprets it). The sisters have there own adventures with Totoro and deal with family issues.

Review: This is a very kiddie movie and is aimed to a specific age demographic, but I think that families will enjoy watching this together. The plot is very simple and although is very kid friendly, does have it's dramatic moments that some younger kids might not like.

The animation is simply flawless. I can't emphasize the genius that Hayao Miyazaki is. He is dubbed the Walt Disney of Japan and it's been said that he doesn't like the title. He is the Disney of Japan and I have no doubt that he will be forever known as one of the best animators of all time.

This is another great masterpiece by Hayao Miyazaki. Some might not like this as much because it is very kiddie and simple, but it's simplicity makes it that much greater to watch.

Rating: 4.5/5

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