About My Neighbor Totoro

"My Neighbor Totoro" is an animated fantasy movie directed by Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. The story is about two young daughters (Satsuki and Mei) of a professor who move to a new home closer to the hospital where their mother is recovering from a long-term illness. They soon discover that the surrounding forest is home to many wondrous creatures, including the beloved forest spirit, Totoro. The movie beautifully trails the encounters and experiences of the children with Totoro and other magical beings.

Making / Production

Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, one of the most known directors in the anime industry, "My Neighbor Totoro" was produced by Studio Ghibli, Japan's premier animation studio. The film captures Miyazaki's signature theme of humanity's relationship with nature and the environment, along with the joys and challenges of childhood.

Actors

• Noriko Hidaka as Satsuki: She expertly portrays the character of a protective and loving older sister.
• Chika Sakamoto as Mei: She truly captures the innocence and curiosity of a young child discovering a new world.
• Hitoshi Takagi as Totoro: He brings the lovable forest spirit to life with his deep, resonating voice and jolly laughter.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The word 'Totoro' is a mispronunciation of 'tororu', which means 'troll' in Japanese.
• The bus in the film is a cat. This character may have inspired the Catbus in enough anime that it's become a recurring cameo character.
• The film was originally meant to be a double feature with Grave of the Fireflies.

Awards

"My Neighbor Totoro" won the Animage Anime Grand Prix prize and the Mainichi Film Award for Best Film in 1988.

Quotes

• "Trees and people used to be good friends." - Totoro
• "Everybody, try laughing. Then whatever scares you will go away!" - Tatsuo Kusakabe

Music, Soundtrack

• "My Neighbor Totoro" theme song: This beautiful song perfectly capture the enchanting vibe of the film.
• "Path of the Wind" : This beautiful orchestral piece underlines the joyous and adventurous scenes.