Gorgeous Animation, Wonderful Story

Rating: 10/10 (29 March 2003)

This is the first film that I have scene by Hayao Miyazaki; I cannot wait to see others. The animation is gorgeous. The artists use brilliant blues and greens to bring out the life in the fields and skies. They include small details (such as an old soda bottle at the bottom of an otherwise clear brook) that lend realism to the film without imposing on the beauty of the landscape, and throughout the movie they introduce us to one lovely flower and plant after another. The characters are easy to empathize with, and the story is one that engages children from ages 5 to 75. I heartily recommend this film to anyone who loves animation, no matter what age. A definite "10."