Most importantly, the film occupies a beautiful cross section of whimsy and reality that only Studio Ghibli could bring in such beautiful detail. The film’s reputation as a somewhat “lost” Ghibli film kept it a mysterious prospect but ultimately once the film was released, it was found to be a more-than-fitting addition into the Studio Ghibli canon. While Only Yesterday was the highest-grossing film in Japan in 1991, and a well-acclaimed work from director Isao Takahata’s portion of the Studio Ghibli canon, it never saw an English dub, or release into the United States, until 2016. Along her journey, as well as during her stay, she is accompanied by her younger self, and visions of the simpler times she once saw as boring routine, but slowly begins to see in a new light. Central character Taeko (voiced by Daisy Ridley in the long awaited English dub), finds herself leaving Tokyo’s busy nature in order to help her country family with an annual harvest.

Strangely enough, this film would also be an influence on the Pete's Dragon live-action remake, with the studio's now former distribution partner, Disney.Ī story of escaping the big city to enjoy the countryside, Only Yesterday is a tale of nostalgia and remembrance of one’s childhood, as they are continuing to make their way in the world as a young adult. To seal the deal, Totoro himself became Studio Ghibli’s mascot, finding his way into the studio’s logo that runs before their films. Not to mention, the fact that the film made such an impact during the ‘80s boom of anime films that famed film critic Roger Ebert took notice and heralded the film as one of his “Great Movies” picks. Debuting in Hayao Miyazaki’s pivotal 1988 hit, the film shows us the adventures of Satsuki and Mei (Dakota and Elle Fanning, in the 2005 Disney dub), a pair of girls who are waiting for their mother to get out of the hospital, and make some enchanted, cat-like friends along the way.ĭealing with themes involving illness and - depending on who you talk to - mortality itself, My Neighbor Totoro is especially remembered for its gorgeous art style. Even if you’ve never seen anime before in your life, Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbor Totoro has probably still made an impact on your mind, all thanks to its titular character and his memorable design.

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