It works on a multitude of levels; a social commentary on Japan (both the youth of Japan and the ecological impact development has had - The Last Samurai was filmed in New Zealand), a homage to ancient Japanese mythology and a moral film for both children and adults. But most importantly, it is a simple story brilliantly told by a great filmmaker. Hayao Miyazaki (director and screenwritter) has taken the time to develop the characters to the point where you forget they are animated. Hayao’s style of animation doesn’t feel like it was created on a computer, there is the feeling that this is personal and this allows you to geniunely have affection for the characters and the situations they find themselves in.
The soundtrack for this film matches perfectly and the actors/actresses have done a wonderful job in bringing the characters alive on the screen.
Spirited Away was the first Studio Ghibli movie I had seen and been a Studio Ghibli fan ever since, Spirited Away is now one of my all time favourite movies. I keep coming back to its simple yet effective storyline, wonderful animation and beautiful and visually inspiring artwork. For 125 brilliant minutes I am transported to another world, a spirit world. Fantastic!
