Watching Miyazaki: A Short "Film-Review" Series

My Neighbor Totoro

(1988)

“I also believe that you met the King of the Forest, Mei, and meeting him is a sign of good luck. But there's no guarantee that you'll see him all the time.”

- Tatsuo Kusakabe, Satsuki and Mei's Dad

Oh, man! This movie.

If you ever want to feel like a kid again, this movie is what you watch. I think this film cemented Miyazaki in my head as the Japanese response to Walt Disney. Hell, I think he's better thatn Walt Disney, for the simple fact that his works vary so much in maturity. But this one, takes it back to a more childhood friendly atmosphere.

My Neighbor Totoro (1988) revolves around a family who moved in to a new house. It's a real fixer--upper type of home, but it neighbors a giant tree. Mei, the youngest daughter befriends a benevolent spirit named Totoro and has some awesome dream-like adventures with him.

Ther's so much going on, though. Kids will see this movie from one perspective and adults will see the film in a different perspective. There really is so much depth in this... for a film aimed at children!

I won't give away anything else, because I do think you should go watch it. The film howevever doesn't really have much of a major risky plot, no. It's simple and it knows what it wants to achieve; that is, taking us back to a time where magic was most definitely real and how we all used to run around chasing benevolent spirits. This is an essential part in a Miyazaki film binge, because it's the most innocent out of all of Hayao Miyazaki's films.

The art style is amazing, the characters are loveable; and the theme is just memorable. It's a film that will put a smile on your face, no matter what. If you have kids, and you just want to forget being an adult for an hour or so, definitely watch My Neighbor Totoro.

The soundtrack's pretty cool, too.

My Neighbor Totoro (1988) Trailer