'A truly engrossing adventure'

Rating: 10/10 (6 August 2012)

'Spirited Away' was the first and only animated feature (thus far) outside of America to win an Oscar for 'Best Animated Picture', and for good reason. Director, Hayao Miyazaki has managed to create a timeless and enchanting classic for kids and adults alike. In usual Studio Ghibli fashion, the feature bears similarities to classic tales, and Spirited Away is no exception. There a many comparisons that can be made to Lewis Caroll's, 'Alice In Wonderland'. However do not confuse this film for a mere retelling. 'Spirited Away' is a truly engrossing adventure that addresses a whole range of themes and emotions.
The film, that revolves around ten year old Chihiro whose parents are turned into pigs, follows this idea of a small girl lost in a magical world. However the way in which this is portrayed, the way Miyazaki makes this world unfold in front of your eyes is where the real magic is found. A world that is "hidden by Gods"as the word 'kamikakushi' in the Japanese title would imply. It's a story about a small girls passage between childhood and adulthood, done in such a beautiful and invigorating way. The way the film embraces Japanese folklore and culture, while subtly referencing environmental concerns helps surround the films with more purpose and meaning, something many Western animations miss.
This is a film that has helped stamp the importance of Anime in western culture. While big films before, such as 'My Nieghbour Totoro' and 'Akira' have been huge successes, 'Spirited Away' really brought the magic of Japanese animation to the west. I for one consider 'Spirited Away' as my favorite film of all time, in both the original Japanese and American dub, the voice acting is perfect. The score is both magical and sublime and the animation is done in the exquisite Ghibli way.
Simply amazing, a must see for anyone.