While the work of Studio Ghibli was familiar to many film fans around the world before the release of Spirited Away, it was their 2001 film that (finally) brought their work to mainstream audiences. The likes of My Neighbour Totoro, Princess Mononoke, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind and Kiki’s Delivery Service became firm favourites with a whole new generation of young minds. It is, however, Hayao Miyazaki masterpiece which remains their most popular.
Chihiro (Rumi Hiiragi/Daveigh Chase) is not happy. Her parents have decided to move to the middle of nowhere and she’s far from impressed about having to start a whole new life. When her father takes one of his ‘famous’ short-cuts, they arrive at a mysterious entrance. Crossing the border takes them into a ghostly world run by the evil Yubaba (Mari Natsuki/Suzanne Pleshette). When her parents are enchanted, she must find a way to free them.
There has never been a film quite like Spirited Away. The sheer level of detail and creativity on show in breathtaking. It’s one of those films where everything clicks. Miyazaki has a story to match the beautiful animation while the voice actors are perfectly cast. It’s a magical mystery tour through the mind of a master. Spirited Away is a wonderful film which will entertain, amaze and amuse both young and old alike.
Special features:
- Introduction by John Lasseter
- The Making of Spirited Away
- Meet Hayao Miyazaki
- Behind the Microphone – Voice Talent Featurette
- Alternative Angle Storyboards
- Original Japanese Trailers
Spirited Away 20th Anniversary Collector’s Edition is released on dual DVD and Blu-ray doubleplay by Studiocanal and available now.
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