Welcome to my recap and review of the classic Studio Ghibli movie My Neighbor Totoro! Read on to learn more about what may have influenced the Director, Hayao Miyazaki, to make the film and to see my reaction to it. For more movie details and to watch the English dub trailer, head over to the My Neighbor Totoro movie page. I hope you enjoy my review, and as always- keep watching!
Details:
- Release Date: 2005
- Director: Hayao Miyazaki
- Language: English dub
- Runtime: 86 minutes
- Production Company: Studio Ghibli
The Plot
My Neighbor Totoro is a heartwarming animated film directed by Hayao Miyazaki. The story revolves around two sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who move to a countryside home with their father, Tatsua.
The new house is rumored to be haunted, leading the imaginative and curious sisters on many adventures. Satsuki, approximately 10 years old, and Mei, around 4 years old, discover a magical world in the lush countryside filled with rice farms and a majestic Camphor tree.
As the sisters explore, they encounter Totoro, a friendly and mysterious spirit inspired by Shinto beliefs. Totoro becomes a whimsical companion, helping the girls navigate their challenges. The film captures everyday life blended with the supernatural.
My Neighbor Totoro is a classic animated film for people of all ages. The film’s charm lies in its ability to evoke a sense of friendship, making for an enjoyable watching experience.
The Director
The director, Hayao Miyazaki, has mentioned in previous interviews that he sees himself in Satsuki. This is because when he was around her age, his mother, Yoshiko, suffered from spinal tuberculosis from 1947 to 1955.
She spent a few years in the hospital. At this time, young Hayao had to perform daily tasks by himself such as cooking and cleaning for the family. Yoshinko’s strength and intelligence influenced many female characters in Hayao’s works.
The Soundtrack
The magical atmosphere of My Neighbor Totoro is enhanced by the brilliant music composed by Joe Hisaishi. Hisaishi’s soundtrack complements the film’s scenes. I thought that the soundtrack did a great job of capturing the emotions of the different scenes in the film.
For instance, scenes featuring the majestic Camphor tree are particularly enhanced by Hisaishi’s music. While watching scenes of Totoro’s tree, I noticed that the music really adds to the grandeur and mystique of the tree.
There were playful and quirky tunes on while Totoro and the other spirits flew through the sky, and quick adventurous music as the girls raced through the tunnel leading to Totoro’s tree.
The Animation
The 2D hand-drawn animation style of My Neighbor Totoro showcases Studio Ghibli’s style and is impressive given the time the film was released. Even years later, the film is still artistically pleasing and a joy to watch.
I really enjoy the animation style every time I watch the film. The vibrant and fairy tale-like colors contribute to its timeless appeal. The scenery is based on a town that Miyazaki lived in called Tokorozawa. The story takes place sometime in the 1950’s.
Adding to the animation style, the creatures introduced, including Totoro and the Catbus, are designed with a touch of mysticism and whimsy.
My Neighbor Totoro is an example of how great traditional hand-drawn animation combined with an enchanting narrative and memorable characters can be.
Kanta's Progression
Throughout My Neighbor Totoro, Kanta’s character undergoes a noticeable change. Initially portrayed as a mix of shyness, stubbornness, and unruliness.
In the beginning, he often pulled faces at Satsuki and Mei as they explored their new home. As the story unfolds, Kanta reveals a lighter side, though still socially awkward.
During a rainstorm, he forcefully shoves his umbrella towards the girls, before running away with a grin on his face. Later he mischievously deceives his mom about what had happened to his umbrella.
I thought it was funny when Granny asked Kanta “who’s at the door, Kanta?” Then he says “beats me” while continuing the play with his plane, knowing full well who was at the door.
His awkward antics seem to disappear when he assists the Kusakabe family during their difficult time. Kanta became a helpful friend, comforting Mei after the argument she had with Satsuki and tirelessly helped Satsuki find Mei at the end of the movie.
Totoro's Antics
Below are a couple of moments of Totoro that I found hilarious while watching the film:
- Totoro’s Expressions
- Totoro’s expressions throughout the movie were funny. He often had blank stares and then would end up either roaring loudly or jumping and then returning to his long gaze.
- Leaf on Head at Bus Stop
- In the bus stop scene, Totoro sported a leaf on his head, adding a charming touch to the rainy moment.
- Umbrella Lessons with Satsuki
- Satsuki teaching Totoro how to use an umbrella was humorous, and the iconic image of Totoro holding the umbrella at the bus stop captures this fun moment.
- Camphor Tree Climbing
- Totoro’s quick scurry up the Camphor tree while helping Satsuki find Mei, darting up the branches, showcased his playful nature.
- Bus Ride with Umbrella
- Totoro took the umbrella with him on the bus instead of returning it, adding a touch of bizarre humor. I also think this may have a deeper symbolic meaning. Check out my article of My Neighbor Totoro all about the symbols found and their meanings.
- Confused Totoro
- Totoro’s confused expressions when Mei roared or made loud sounds provided comedic relief.
The experience of watching this film was joyful and memorable. While not driven by an the most exciting storyline, its charm lies in deeper meanings in a laid-back countryside setting.
What do you think?
What did you think of the film? Who was your favorite character? Let me know if the comments below. I love hearing for you all.
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I hope you enjoyed the film and my reaction. Keep watching and reading!
Check out my related article: Porco Rosso Recap and Review.
Resources
As a movie lover, especially classic 2D animation, I launched this blog as a guide to keep fellow enthusiasts updated on the latest news and information about films and shows. Through Movie Prairie, I strive to share my insights and recommendations, inviting you to explore and appreciate the magic of movies just as much as I do. Join me on this as we delve into the captivating world of film together.
