Hayao Miyazaki: Spirited Away

Termed as an "enchanting and gorgeously drawn fairy tale" by many alike, Japanese animated film is a masterpiece in itself that will not disappoint. Directed by critically acclaimed animation studio Studio Ghibli and Hayao Miyazaki, Spirited Away tells the story of a young ten year old girl (Chihiro) who must work for a bathhouse in order to save her parents from the spirit world. Filled with beautiful animation and subtle themes, the film is one that is appropriate for all ages and must be seen. According to the director, inspiration was drawn from the life of family friends and includes a young heroine to serve as a role model for girls. Furthermore, culture influence is especially visible in regards to regional Japanese and Pseudo-Western architecture.


Although the film is primarily directed towards a younger audience, Miyazaki has included much thematic elements representative of the real world and Japanese culture. For example, the essential setting of the plot follows Chihiro as she transcends from the human world into the spirit/supernatural realm. Additionally, she leaves behind her innocence and must assume adulthood during the climatic event of her both name being seized by the bathhouse proprietor Yubaba. Similarly, an allusion to capitalism is exhibited amongst the characters: Chihiro's parents are transformed into pigs due to their consumerist ideals and the temptation brought upon them at the border between both worlds. At the same time, the presence of western influence upon Japanese culture and Chihiro's parents are further causes for their peril. 

Along with the aforementioned themes, the film also includes references to Japanese society: economic downfall, environmental pollution, and corruption. Greed and excess are emulated by the residents and employees of the bathhouse as well. Most notable in the character No Face who adopts the multifaceted identities of those in the bathhouse while also temptation them with gold and good fortune. 

To call this film a work of art would not be a stretch by any means. One cannot help but marvel at the beautiful; animation and visual effects that capture the mystical essence of spirits while also contrasting with that of the human world. Moreover, it provides glimpses into Japanese culture, beliefs, history, and society. The style and character design set it apart from traditional Japanese/contemporary animation as well. Not only is it filled with well rounded and relatable characters, but each frame consists of a rich, vivid and immensely detailed background. Likewise, every scene contains much depth and dimension with especially prominent shadows. Finally, Studio Ghibli never fails to disappoint with critically acclaimed releases annually and their expert animation/artistic style.