Although, I would be rather happy if it were Totoro, at least Totoro never stole my catalogues... moving on...

My Neighbour Totoro is another beautiful all ages film by Studio Ghibli (pronounced Jibbly).

Satsuki and Mei move to the countryside with their father after their mother does herself a mischief.

Soon after moving in the two girls, voiced by Dakota and Elle Fanning respectively, realise that they share their house with some rather unusual critters and an even more unusual neighbour named Totoro.



My Neighbour Totoro was originally released in Japan in 1988 and in the US in 1994 by Troma films (the ingenius people that brought us Tromeo and Juliet and Toxie) before being licensed and redubbed by Disney in March 2006 and acquired by Madman entertainment soon after.

Although animated in 1988, the quality of animation and film stock itself are excellent and as with all Ghibli films, the music is incredible.

The local release is a bit shy on special features, with alternative angle storyboards, original trailers and textless opening and closing credits but as mentioned above, the film itself is in pristine condition. And wrapped in a high quality reversible slick.

I wouldn't necessarily say that this is a must-watch for any old anime fan, but I will say that it is a must-have for all Ghibli fans.

A wonderful film filled with fantasy, wonder and hope that will be a delight for adults and children alike. Written and directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki.