Rank 5: My Neighbor Totoro
- Release year: 1988
- Rating: 8.1 (out of 10 from 394,764 ratings)
What is it about? The film is set in the 1950s in Japan. University professor Tatuso Ksakabe moves with his two daughters Satsuki and Mei into an old house in the countryside. The mother of the two children is in a nearby hospital recovering from a serious illness.
Mei encounters small spirits. She discovers not only the dust-like Susuwatari but also the forest spirit Totoro in a large camphor tree. There she befriends him. From then on, Totoro meets the two girls repeatedly. They also encounter a twelve-legged Catbus, which even helps search for one of the girls when she goes missing.
Who is the film suitable for? My Neighbor Totoro has a more tranquil tone. There is no action, only nature and mythical creatures. So, if you want a cozy movie night where mystical beings and country life are at the forefront, this is the best choice.
Rank 4: Howl’s Moving Castle
- Release year: 2004
- Rating: 8.2 (out of 10 from 467,690 ratings)
What is it about? The story is based on the children’s book “Howl’s Moving Castle” by Diana Wynne Jones. The young hat maker Sophie is cursed by a witch out of jealousy. She transforms into an old woman and flees into no man’s land. There she meets the wizard Howl and his moving castle.
The wizard fights at night as a bird creature against warships that threaten the city. The king tries to win Howl to his side for his own purposes. Sophie stands bravely by Howl’s side and protects him as much as she can.
Who is the film suitable for? Howl’s Moving Castle combines war, romance, and fantasy. Above all, the love story between Howl and Sophie is touching. Hayao Miyazaki was inspired by the era of world wars in Europe for this film, which is why, alongside romance, tension arises through the battles and their consequences. Fans who love drama will be well served here.
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