Beautiful and heartwarming

Rating: 10/10 (23 August 2012)

Although I am in no way a fan of Japanese animation, this movie is nothing short of exceptional. I have watched it countless times, and it never gets old, only better. It is a children's fairy tale - however, there's depth to it that makes it more of a fairy tale for adults that want to remember what it was like to be a child. The message (a common one for Miyadzaki's movies) is simple and beautiful, and although he is not a religious fellow, entirely Christian in its essence: not physical strength, fame, money, or brute force will make a difference in this world - but love, hope, strength of heart and self-sacrifice. The hero of Miyadzaki's movies is not an all-powerful superhero, but a small, insignificant and frightened little girl, who nevertheless finds the courage and strength to do what her heart tells her is right. Just as in most of his movies (and another very Christian aspect), while there is evil present, no character is truly evil for evil's sake - the mean giant baby is just a spoiled fussy child, and even the "wicked witch", Yubaba, has a sense of justice and is capable of love. The characters are all memorable: the adorable coal spirits, the Faceless spirit, the dragon - just to name a few. The animation is brilliant and the music is mesmerizing. I have yet to see an animation film that is more magical. My favorite scene: when Tihiro rides the train through the water. Sends shivers down my spine every time!
In summary, its a masterpiece and fully deserving to be in the Top 100 movies.