Jul. 20, 2001|Japan|125 Min.|PG
Genre: Animation;Family;Fantasy
Description: “Spirited Away,” released in 2001, stands as one of the greatest animated films of all time. Its foundation lies in traditional hand-drawn animation, with each frame meticulously crafted by Hayao Miyazaki and his team. While Miyazaki has embraced the use of computers to enhance certain aspects of the animation, he remains committed to the artistry of manual drawing, creating thousands of frames by hand. As he once explained, the process begins with human creativity, which is then enriched digitally, ensuring a visually stunning result.
One memorable scene in the film showcases the young protagonist standing on a bridge near the magical bathhouse, a central location in the story. While the focus remains on the main characters, Miyazaki’s attention to detail shines through as he fills the background with numerous secondary figures. These characters are not static or repetitive; instead, they move with realism and individuality, adding depth to the scene.
While many viewers may only perceive this as general movement, Miyazaki’s dedication ensures that every element is thoughtfully animated. This level of care reflects his passion and generosity as a filmmaker. For instance, instead of simplifying the bathhouse to its essential components, he portrays it as a fully realized, complex environment, complete with intricate details that bring it to life. This approach immerses the audience in a rich, believable world, demonstrating Miyazaki’s commitment to storytelling and artistry.
Cast director: Hayao Miyazaki
Cast actor: Rumi Hiiragi, Miyu Irino, Mari Natsuki, Takashi Naitō, Yasuko Sawaguchi, Tatsuya Gashūin, Ryunosuke Kamiki, Yumi Tamai, Yo Oizumi, Koba Hayashi
Original name: 千と千尋の神隠し