My Neighbor Totoro

My Neighbor Totoro is a seemingly simple movie about childhood imaginations that when further explored reveals many complex ideas of the challenges of growing up. The psychology presented takes into account the many levels of a child's life from the private imaginations to the longing for a parent to cultural influences. This depth of presentation separates My Neighbor Totoro from most other childrens' films. While not much occurs plot wise in a conventional sense, the viewer is drawn into this world created by Miyazaki. It is 1950's Japan, but it is also the world of two young girls(Mei and Satsuki) dealing with a hospitalized mother. In the latter, a world of fantasy is created, allowing Mei and Satsuki to feel safe and fulfilled in an otherwise emotionally unsatisfactory position. While the "real" world struggles with difficult truths such as the potential death of their mother and a house that is falling apart, the fantasy world gives Mei and Satsuki unbelievable creatures(Totoros) who allow them to achieve the impossible such as flying and growing a tree overnight.

(To be completed)