The Most Realistic Fantasy I've Seen.

Rating: 8/10 (30 July 2019)

When first seeing this movie, I didn't understand why this movie didn't have a major plot and conflict. With all these fantasy creatures including Totoro (One of my favorite anime characters) and the cat bus, I was shocked to find this film was a simple slice of life story with the fantasy creatures living in this world as it was natural. The two leading female characters are getting used to life in a new home, growing up, and their mom in a hospital. They soon meet Totoro and multiple other creatures and they settle with them in their lives. I found this kind of story odd and weird at first. But now, the more and more I watch it, this kind of story is something I need. Other Studio Ghibli movies are these big action-packed fantasy adventure movies, so it's nice to see something cute and simple. This film does have a plot though but it doesn't have a clear focus or core, it has multiple focuses such as the creatures, the mom, a boy who has a crush on one of the girls, and getting use to living in a new neighborhood. This film makes me feel like a child when seeing all of the great imagery, like able characters, and cute creatures. Besides Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away. This would be my favorite Studio Ghibli film. It's colorful, fun, heartwarming, and realistic while taking place in a world of creatures. I'd recommend it.