Hayao Miyazaki Back-to-Back

My cousins and I watched a back-to back Hayao Miyazaki films last week at CCP for free. I already knew that there were two films showing on that day but we opted to watch the first one since we didn't know what the second one was. When we learned what it was, we decided to watch it as well (even though I already watched it on DVD).

This was supposed to be brief thoughts about the film, but I ended up making mini-movie reviews instead. Oh well. In a nutshell, both films have stunning visuals and superb details. They also have both female leads and most of all, they are equally entertaining (at least for kids and those who are kids at heart like me). 

 Sprited Away (2001)

Chihiro and her family are on their way to their new home when her father takes a wrong turn. They suddenly find themselves in a seemingly-abandoned theme park. What they don't know is when the night falls, this place transforms into something beyond their imagination.

I find it a bit fast-paced in the beginning. Some scenes also lack the right establishments. Sometimes, the background music is overlapping with the dialogue. However, what I like about this is that, it has a clear plot. Also, the special effects are surely to blow you away.

My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

The Kusakabe family are happily living in their new home in the country side. Unbeknownst to them, they also have whimsical creatures for neighbors, including Totoro, a furry bear-like giant.

This one is set in 1958 and centers more on family. Unlike the first one, it is slow-paced and has a vague plot. I'm sorry, I know this has a lot of fans and all that but that's what I truly feel about it. On the other hand, the characters are way memorable. Who wouldn't be delighted to see Totoro and his cuddly friends especially that furry cat bus. Let's also not forget Mai's funny antics. It also has a cute opening credits (SA has a very brief one). Moreover, it has a good soundtrack.

Overall, each film has its own strengths and weaknesses but again, both are just entertaining. Kids will surely love them. Indeed, it's a well-spent day for us.

*All images are linked-back to their own respective websites. I do not own any of them.