
Seeing as today marks the release of not simply a Studio Ghibli film, but the farewell film of maestro director Hayao Miyazaki, we look back at one of his earlier works and the incredible legacy it has spawned.
With Miyazaki's body of work, you have two sides: his more adult and philosophical style of storytelling, such as The Wind Rises; and his more childlike fable creations, such as My Neighbour Totoro. Totoro puts the audience in a world of fairytale and fantasy thats told through the eyes of children.

The film as well as being directed by Miyazaki is also written by him. Made in 1988, it's one of Ghibli's earlier film, but still showcases the studio's wondrous animation.
The story is simplistic in its style and approach, mainly because it's told through the eyes of children. The film shows the wonders and trials of childhood. The girls see wonder in everything they do, which forms the main action of the story. But this film is not without realism. The girls also deal with the issues of their sick mother and her prolonged absence. In this approach, the film sails along smoothly as the girls explore their world and receive visits from their new friend Totoro. This childlike sense is by no means unsophisticated, but whimsical and nostalgic.

Of all the beautiful imagery the film has given audiences its the characters that are most striking. The cat bus, which is a loving giant ginger tom that just happens to also be a mode of transport is a brief highlight. The bus runs across the films landscape to collect Totoro and also helps Satsuko when she needs guidance. His finale journey with the girls to the hospital is a gift that reunites them.
The most iconic image from the film is Totoro himself. A playful and furry creature that appears to the girls throughout the film. Moomin or bear like in apperance hes made all the more fascinating by the fact that only the girls can see him.

A beautiful and masterfully told fable that explores the wonders of childhood. Playful and innocent yet intelligently told, it stands as one of Miyazaki's best and a credit to Studio Ghibli.