Just like what the previous review said, Spirited Away is a deceptively simple treat from one of Japan’s best animators.

Spirited Away’s overall storyline is simple, but is layered with Miyazaki’s own brand of social critiques and ecological sensibilities which adds a significant depth to it. The story is well written and effortlessly switches back and forth from serious to witty scenes. Characters are all well presented and developed throughout the course of the film. The previous review pretty much reflects my sentiments toward the story.

Animation measures up to the usual high quality of a Miyazaki/Studio Ghibli production. As well for this one, Ghibli also got help from such heavyweight as GAINAX and Mad House for the animation. When seen in the theater Spirited Away’s animation is simply amazing and breathtaking. About the only problem I had with the animation was with some of the character designs done in Miyazaki’s distinctive style. Even though she is just a kid, Chihiro’s toothpick-like legs were mildly disturbing. Otherwise the designs were well done as Miyazaki can draw anything from the grotesque to the cute and to the ordinary with a sense of charm.

Music is just like everything else in the film. While the ending song will probably never make it on my favorite’s list, the piano driven orchestral background music does a wonderful job capturing the ambience of the scenes.

Disney, as much as I despise them, did a very good job with the English dubbing. Unfortunately I’ll have to wait for the Region 1 DVD to be released before I can compare that to the original Japanese language track. About the only problem with the dub is that when Chihiro yells, it can get a little bit grating.

If you have an opportunity to see Spirited Away in the theater, it is kind of tough since Disney is doing a poor job promoting the film, don’t pass it up because it is one of the best films out there.

Individual Rating: Art: 10; Story & Plot: 9; Characters: 10; Sounds: 10

This entry was posted on Saturday, November 23rd, 2002 at 11:20 pm and is filed under Spirited Away, Anime. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.