Spirited Away

Other than with Starblazers when I was a child, I have never been a fan of Japanese animation (anime). I don’t think it was because the visual style, but lack of exposure. I never sought it out. After watching this, my whole view has changed. Spirited Away is one of the most magical and unique animated films I have ever seen. It rivals the animated work of Disney. The attention to detail is phenomenal, and the creative design, including backgrounds and characters held my attention throughout. At times I believed I was watching live action, the animation felt so real. The story is wonderful too, as we follow a lost little girl through an unknown world to find her parents. She’s an active participant and causes her world to change in the ways she needs, while making friends and allies as she goes. There’s a little Alice in Wonderland in this, but without all the psychedelic angst. Instead you’re left with wondrous images and a story that makes sense. See it!