Intelligent cinema

Rating: 10/10 (22 August 2008)

This is an important film in the history of animation and storytelling in general. It caters for both young and old and demonstrates great skill in the art of story-telling. I've watched this movie with two four-year-olds on different occasions and they were transfixed for the full two hours. Not one moment of distraction and questions at the same points. It does need some parental guidance for very young viewers as there are some slightly confronting scenes which may require a little explanation.
While the story line is just great (cultural, diverse and imaginative) I like this film because it does what many children's films don't do which is to expose them to life, without abusing a child's sense of right and wrong. Movies like these help to prepare children for the life ahead rather than being over-protective.
You will have to run the dubbed version for young children, but do take the time to listen to the Japanese language version yourself because it makes the film more effective and even more beautiful.