Wow.

Rating: 10/10 (1 April 2003)

I really, really loved this film. Since so many others have already reviewed this film, I feel inadequete in trying to tell you about the pleasures you will experience with this joyous celebration of everything that makes cinema great. This isn't just an animated film, it's a great animated film, easily the best I've ever seen. Comparing this film to, oh, say Beauty and the Beast, that would be like comparing Taxi Driver to Dumb and Dumber. That's just how strongly I feel about this film. This coming from a person who isn't neccessarily enamored with anime. I find it a bit too quirky and way too convoluted. Most of the time. My great love affair with Studio Ghibli, which produced this film, began with Grave of the Fireflies. That movie was my favorite of all time. That is, until I saw Spirited Away. I was expecting great things, after all, this was coming from the man who gave us Castle in the Sky, Princess Mononoke, and My Neighbor Totoro. Let me tell you, I was completely and utterly blown away at how much Miyazaki outdid himself. This film feels epic, unfolding slowly and endearing itself to us in ways I've never seen before. Easily tied with Adaptation and Gangs of New York as best film of 2002. I love this movie, and I love Disney, Ghibli, and Miyazaki for allowing me to experience it. The only words I can use, and they are not enough, is; "WOW!" Score: A Perfect 10/10