Year: 2002
Director:Hayao Miyazaki Distributor: Optimum Home Entertainment Certificate: PG Like many Studio Ghibli films directed by the highly-acclaimed Hayao Miyazaki, the Oscar-winning 'Spirited Away' is difficult to sum up in a few words and the best thing to do is to go ahead and watch it for yourself. No matter how many times you are told what it's like, it really is the kind of film that has to be seen to be believed. That is my main point: it's a must see animated film with originality, attention to detail and sheer beauty that Hollywood filmmakers have yet to equal. Here are the reasons. The story begins with a headstrong (and, it has to be said, bratty) ten year old girl named Chihiro who is moving house with her parents. Unfortunately, her father takes a wrong turn and instead of taking his family to their new home they end up going down a leafy trail which ends at what appears to be an abandoned theme park. This is, in fact, the Land of the Spirits, inhabited by a dazzling array of magical beings. When Chihiro's parents are transformed into pigs (no, really) and kidnapped by a witch named Yubaba, Chihiro decides to work at the Spirit World's bath house to earn her family's freedom. While Miyazaki's last film, 'Princess Mononoke' (read the reviewhere) was aimed more towards teenagers and young adults, 'Spirited Away' is more suitable for families and slightly younger children and as a result has little violence and a lot more humour. The classic Miyazaki themes of magic spells, flight and the closeness of nature are evident, as is another beautiful musical score from Ghibli regular Joe Hisaishi. The stunningly fluid animation is also improved (yes, it is possible!), with subtle CGI and slightly more intricately drawn character designs that those of the past. The visuals are every bit as good as expected with room to spare: the Land of the Spirits is lush and colourful and the magical creatures themselves, including frogs, birds, flying dragons and spiders made from coal dust are as frightening, endearing and outlandish as those from the imagination of Lewis Carrol. As with much of the best anime, a message of the importance of friendship and courage is put across without sounding preachy and simplistic. The 2-disc DVD is packed with extras, including interviews with the director and voice actors, an excessive number of trailers/TV spots, storyboard to scene comparisons, a trailer for the forthcoming Ghibli production 'The Cat Returns' and a fascinating behind-the-scenes featurette which emphasises the hard work, dedication and large-scale cookery skills which go into animated films. The English dialogue is of a high quality, although the original Japanese dub is also available with subtitles. A spellbinding, Alice-in-Wonderland adventure for all ages. Animated film doesn't get any better than this. 10/10 Back |
