Quite possibly the best film ever produced by Ghibli

Rating: 10/10 (10 April 2018)

This film perfectly captures the emotions and challenges of making one's way in a strange land. The protagonist finds herself thrust headlong into a magical world with different rules and norms. She must adapt quickly or risk the loss of not only her own existence but those of her family members. She meets several magical characters that symbolize many aspects of modern society. More than an animated story, this film is a serious critique of the ills that plague life in the 21st century and the struggles facing humankind in adapting to modern changes. Perhaps most impressive are the scenes of strong emotion which seem real despite the lack of real people playing the characters.