Bittersweet

Rating: Null/10 (21 December 2002)

When I first learned that this movie had been released as a double feature with Grave of the Fireflies, I was, to say the least, confused. But now I definitely see why that was done.
My Neighbor Totoro, once put into proper historical perspective, becomes a rather difficult film to watch, especially for someone born and raised in the country that put the Japanese in that situation all those many years ago. All the clues are there--the mother in the hospital, Kanta's hat, the setting, the dress, and particularly the way the mother's medical condition is never discussed. It doesn't come on as strong as Grave of the Fireflies; it's more an optimistic piece, an exercise in innocence and naiveity.
Or rather, how children deal with painful realities.
I hope I haven't given much away. Anyway, this is definitely among Miyazaki's best; and I would go as far as to say it was one of the best animated films ever made, except for the way in which it ends (too abruptly and perhaps too soon).
Don't let the dub lead you to believe this is mere kiddie fare. While it can be watched with the family, anyone with a brain won't be able to swallow it that easily. (Methinks the realization that this ISN'T kiddie fare, contrary to what I've always been told, has sent me into more of a shock than anything else. ^_^)