Short Summary
Spirited Away is a critically acclaimed Japanese animated fantasy film directed by Hayao Miyazaki. The story follows Chihiro, a young girl who stumbles into a mysterious spirit world after her parents are transformed into pigs. Trapped in a bathhouse for supernatural beings, Chihiro must navigate a realm of gods, witches, and strange creatures while working to free herself and her parents. The film explores themes of identity, courage, and growing up.
Cast (Japanese Voice Actors / English Dub)*
- Rumi Hiiragi / Daveigh Chase as Chihiro Ogino
- Miyu Irino / Jason Marsden as Haku
- Mari Natsuki / Suzanne Pleshette as Yubaba / Zeniba
- Bunta Sugawara / David Ogden Stiers as Kamaji
- Yumi Tamai / Susan Egan as Lin
Ratings
- IMDb: 8.6/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 96% (Critics), 97% (Audience)
- Metacritic: 96/100 (Universal Acclaim)
Release Date
- Japan: July 20, 2001
- United States: September 20, 2002 (English Dub by Disney)
Should I Watch This?
Spirited Away is a masterpiece of animation and storytelling, often regarded as one of the greatest films of all time. Its richly detailed world, emotional depth, and stunning visuals make it essential viewing for animation fans and cinephiles alike. While younger children might find some scenes intense, the film’s universal themes and imaginative brilliance appeal to all ages.
