Sweet, enchanting, heart-warming movie

Rating: 7/10 (7 March 2016)

Sweet, enchanting, heart-warming movie.
A father moves himself and his two young daughters, Satsuki and Mei, into an old run-down house in the country in order to be closer to his ailing wife, who is in hospital. Neighbours claim that the house is haunted and pretty soon it looks like they might be correct... Then one day Mei wanders into the forest and discovers an interesting creature, Totoro...
The first and, so far, only Hayao Miyazaki movie I've liked, and I've seen all six of his movies that are in the IMDb Top 250. Generally his movies start well, with an intriguing, imaginative set up. However, they tend to quickly degenerate into a rambling adventure for a plot with random action scenes and equally random solutions to problems, and no character depth or engagement. Pretty much suitable for kids only.
However, My Neighbour Totoro is different. There's no rambling adventure or random action scenes, but a sweet, focused story. The characters have depth and are likable and engaging. The plot develops gradually and meticulously. There's a beautiful child-like sense of discovery and wonder to the movie.
Nice, emotional ending too.
Kids will love it but it is ideal for all ages.