My Neighbor Totoro
SCORE: 60
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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