My Neighbour Totoro – Film Review
by Frank L

Director – Hayao Miyazaki
Writer – Hayao Miyazaki
Stars – Hitoshi Takagi, Noriko Hidaka, Chika Sakamoto

In a week that sees ‘new’ cinema releases including Spider-man (2002) and The NeverEnding Story (1984), we welcome back a firm favourite to the cinema in the form of ‘My Neighbour Totoro’. It is being re-released in both dubbed and subtitled formats. We would recommend the subtitled version but it might suit younger viewers to see the dubbed version.

Originally released in 1988, “My Neighbour Totoro” is produced Japanese animation house Studio Ghibli. It has gone on to become a classic. It has achieved worldwide acclaim including the number one animated film in “Sight and Sounds” critics’ poll from 2012 of the all-time greatest movies. It is now re-released to delight a new generation of viewers.

It tells the story of two girls and their father going into the country to be nearer their mother who is in hospital. The children encounter a new world, including the house and its small occupants. There are a range of other adventures such as finding Totoro deep in a mystical forest. There is also the much-loved Catbus which is a genius of animation creativity.

Despite its challenges, this film unites all in a world which has beauty and decency at its core. It is a timely antidote to the challenges facing the world. Treat yourself and go and see it.