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My Neighbor Totoro

 

 

SCORE: 60

 

My Neighbor Totoro 

 

My Neighbor Totoro is another Japanese animated classic from Academy Award-winning director Hayao Miyazaki (2002, Best Animated Feature, SPIRITED AWAY). The original Japanese theatrical version was released in 1988. The story follows Satsuki and her younger sister Mei as they embark on adventures after moving to a new home in the country. While there, they meet a new neighbor - Totoro. Totoro can only be seen by children, and introduces Sasuki and Mei to amazing new friends and characters. This 2-Disc Special Edition DVD includes never-before-seen bonus features.

It is clear from the beginning that the sisters have good chemistry, as they are brought to life (in the English track) by real life sisters Dakota and Elle Fanning. The Mother is in the Hospital, and the Father lives in the countryside with the two girls. The family is close and has good relationships with one another.

One thing to keep in mind when watching thse foreign films is that the cultures are different. One thing that stuck out to me was a scene showing the father and his two young daughters bathin together. Even though this is an animated film that carries a G rating, there was partial nudity during that scene. Perhaps that is accepted as the norm in that culture, but be aware of such cultural practices when considering this movie.

The focus of the story is the children finding Totoro (voiced by Frank Welker), a mysterious Spirit that lives in the forest. Whatever chemistry there was between the characters completely dissipated when Totoro made his appearance. With several minutes of grunting and groaning from the giant beast looking spirit, I was turned off to the creature immediately. When Mei discussed what she found with her Father, he had her and her sister greet and thank the spirits and the trees for watching over Mei. The story continues as they meet more characters and meet more friends.

Watching a movie like this reminds me we have to remember God is the one we thank for watching after us and providing for us. We do not need to go look for mysterious creatures and spirits in the forests (or any other places) to find the One who will take care of us.

The DVD itself is functional and provides plenty of bonus features. Other than Frank Welker's Totoro, the vocal cast is superb. This is the only thing I enjoyed from the movie.
- Alan

 

Graphics: 50%
Sound: 70%
Replay/Extras: 65%
Gameplay: 75%
Family Friendly Factor: 40%
System: DVD
Publisher: Disney
Rating: 'G' for General Audiences

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