If you make up a short list of favorite Ghibli Movies, you typically find Spirited Away at or near the top of every list that’s out there. Today, the movie celebrates the 20th anniversary of its initial release on September 20th, 2002. So, to commemorate the occasion, I’m going to take dive into the movie and give what I think of it.

Let’s start off with saying this; Studio Ghibli movies are some of the best movies that are out there. They’re beautifully written, edited, drawn out and the quality of the production is top notch as well. Is it any wonder why these movies are as beloved as they are. Of course, the food scenes in these movies are probably the 1 thing you’ve heard so often.

For good reason, Ghibli has had an ability to make the food scenes in these movies look so real and artistic. Food Wars has this quality with its food scenes as well. That’s another series that may be covered, or it may not be, you’ll just have to find out.

As previously stated, Spirited Away almost always is at or near the top of everyone’s favorite Ghibli movie list. You will be hard pressed to find a list where it’s not. If one does exist, I’ve yet to come across it. The reason for that is how well the story of the movie is told and visuals that compliment the storytelling as well.

Without spoiling this movies, for those that haven’t see it. The most basic way I can describe this movie to you, without giving too much away would be from this quote by Mariana Delgado of collider.com.

‘Spirited Away’ is a manifestation of fears and anxieties as seen through the lens of its young lead female character, 10-year-old Chihiro.

Mariana Delgado, collider.com

When Chihiro’s parents are subjected to a curse by a powerful witch, that turns them into pigs. She has to go on this journey to find the witch and get her parents changed back to normal. Chihiro is voice by Rumi Hiiragi in the Japanese version of this movie. In the English dub of this movie, she’s voiced by Daveigh Chase (Lilo and Stitch fans will certainly know that name.)

Now, I will not tell you how her parents get affected by the curse, or the circumstances that leads to them getting such thing happened to them. You’ll just have to watch the film for yourself. This movie had a budget of $19.1 million dollars, and as of this post has grossed around $395 million dollars worldwide box office wise.

After you watch this film, you’ll see why this film is as hallowed as it is. and why Studio Ghibli has the cult following that it has and continues to build.

Check out Mariana Delgado’s Article:
https://collider.com/spirited-away-themes-symbolism-explained/