A meticulously crafted, charming masterpiece!

Rating: Null/10 (10 September 2004)

Before seeing this movie, my experience of anime mostly consisted of cute women, giant robots and dudes with guns. Entertaining, but sometimes clichéd and lacking in the visuals. After buying the DVD of 'Castle in the Sky' (which i remember vividly as a child) I was interested in Miyazaki's latest, Oscar winning movie.
Firstly, if you're the type of anime fan who's looking for fast-paced action, look elsewhere. If, however, you are prepared to watch this, you will be treated to some of the most imaginative storytelling and the most astonishing visuals ever to put to cel (or screen for that matter).
The plot is simple enough, following the adventures of a strong-willed and (it has to be said) bratty ten-year-old girl who becomes separated from her parents in a spirit world while moving house. As the story progresses, she gradually grows emotionally into a better person. Although it sounds far-fetched, the way the story is told is in a class of its own. The animators' attention to detail in backgrounds, character design and the animation itself are breath-taking, and the merging of CGI and traditional drawing styles is remarkably well-done. It is this attention to detail which gives more and more to see on repeated viewings, and prevents the viewer noticing the leasurely pace of the story. To say this is merely a kid's film is selling it short. I'm 22 and I LOVE this movie! Hiyao Miyazaki and the rest of the staff at Studio Ghibli have created yet another unforgettable experience. This is how animated movies should be done.