The film director Hayao Miyazaki is to Japan what Walt Disney has been to the US. In fact, Miyazaki’s production company, Studio Ghibli, was recently bought by Disney. If you haven’t experienced any film from Studio Ghibli, you’re in for a treat. All are excellently animated with uplifting storylines and absolutely gorgeous settings, and translated and voiced by some fairly famous Hollywood actors.
The Port Library has recently added Spirited Away to its collection. This movie was produced in 2002. Following a classic fairy tale type storyline this movie centers on Chihiro, a young girl who wanders off the path while on a journey with her parents. Soon she finds herself trapped in the spirit world controlled by the tyrant grandmother Yabubu and Chihiro’s parents are transformed, unable to get free. It comes to Chihiro to rescue them and Haku, a strangely familiar young boy comes to Chihiro’s aid. But Haku is secretly working for Yabubu! Along the way Chihiro must learn resourcefulness, compassion, courage, and politeness.
As a more classic fairy tale, this movie does have some spooky and dark scenes. Most of it is set in Yabubu’s spirit world and may be a bit scary for kids under 5. However, the gorgeous and meticulous animation will be a treat even for adults.
You can get the book reviewed here and more great titles to watch, read, listen to, or play with at the Port Library at 1718 N. Hersey in Beloit. This is director Rachel Malay, saying “Thanks for checking us out!”