Spirited Away is one of the finest animated films I have ever seen. It’s beautiful to watch. The images in the bathhouse particularly appealed to me (especially when Chihiro/Sen was filling the big tub for the river spirit). But the tale itself is one that takes its rightful place among the best fantasy literature for children.

Some of the motivations in the film seemed opaque to me; I could not decipher them. I didn’t know if it was my own lack of familiarity with Japanese culture and tradition, or maybe that the director intended to leave some things to mystery, but it only added to my fascination.

In the beginning, Chihiro’s apathetic attitude and complaining was a little too reminiscent of myself! It was satisfying to witness her willingness to humble herself, accept wisdom from others, trust, and follow instructions to her own benefit. It was good to see the good rise in her. What fascinated me was that one mis-step on her part could have ended her life and her parents’. That element of danger, of not knowing what one will see next, and the sense of the courage required of Chihiro as she faces the unfamiliar, lends a real excitement to the story. It reminds me of the original versions fairy tales that I used to read as a child. I would love to add this one to our library!