4. My Neighbour Totoro (1988)
My Neighbour Totoro was a 1988 released by Studio Ghibli and was once again written and directed by legendary Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki. The story follows the two sisters, who after moving into their new home; encounter the forest spirits that live nearby. Set within postwar rural Japan, the atmosphere created is one of a hushed, minimalistic lull rather than the overexcited frenzied approach taken by other Japanese films on this list. The film follows the two sisters named Satsuki and Mei, with the focus being on their interactions and closeness with one another aswell as the encounters they both experience with the forest spirits around them. There is a clear and defined sisterly love, something that isnt forced or artificial, they care for one another but can argue and have disagreements, something very natural. Their encounters with Totoro extend this connection but also provoke their realisations that the troubles with their mother are far more serious than they thought. The majority of the film lends to observing our two protagonists and how their enthusiasm, excitement and energy leads to exploration and ultimately adventure. Their imaginations are clearly let loose as they picture different scenarios for little creatures or objects allowing younger children the opportunity to connect and feel a similar sense of wanderlust that these two characters share. For an older audience, its difficult not to have the initial impression of grief or doom when watching the initial happiness conveyed in their tone, brief quotes mentioning their ill mother do nothing to help, the film instinctively outlining its serious tone, but ultimately their emotions and reactions to moments of perceived bewilderment allows an opportunity to recapture moments of innocence and joy. Totoro is a particularly intriguing character, one who is observant, quiet and seemingly wakes only when necessary. There is a simplistic beauty to both the design of Totoro but other creations aswell such as the soot spirits and the cat bus that fully realise the majestic imagination of Miyazaki. Various theories surround Totoros presence but underlying it is a particular theme present in other Miyazaki films, the beauty of nature and the fragility surrounding it. The animation is breathtaking with the rural locations of Japan gloriously brought to life with tones that convey both the childlike visions of our protagonists and serious nature of the film. Bright, detailed colours used in the first half of the film are stunning recreated with greens and blues dominating the screen, evoking the essence of the beauty of the environment and nature around us. Later in the film, the darker tones of sunset and night bring a differing atmosphere that is no less compelling or evocative. There is a soothing quality to it all, a tranquillity that despite the dangers represented in the story allow an appreciation of the hand drawn visuals. My Neighbour Totoro is a beautifully created, wondrously told piece of animation. Its more understated narrative and tone can feel initially delude and feel tired to some, but its enchanting message of love, imagination and the perks of happiness has the ability to appeal to all.