*Please note Feb 8 3:00 & Feb 9 5:00 will be dubbed version, others the subtitled.*

Instead of the standard sci-fi laser battles and explosions, writer-director Hayao Miyazaki offers a charming fantasy that stresses the affectionate bond between two young sisters. While their mother remains in the hospital, 4-year-old Mei and 10-year-old Satsuki move into an aged house in the country with their professor-father. When Mei explores the nearby woods, she meets Totoro, a seven-foot forest spirit who looks like an outsized cross between a bunny rabbit and a fuzzy throw pillow. The father believes Mei’s story about meeting this magical guardian, and respectfully asks Totoro to watch over the children, which he does with the aid of a few assistants and a 12-legged “catbus” that is half animal/half machine. Guided by their supernatural friend, the sisters share a series of adventures, soaring over the landscape while Totoro’s roars make the winds blow.-LA Times

“This inspirationally lovely and gentle film has a real claim to be Miyazaki’s masterpiece, or first among equals in his collection”-Peter Bradshaw

“Sheer enchantment”-Chicago Reader