The Cat Returns by Hiroyuki Morita

An unexpected journey to a magical world created from the mind of world renowned animator Hayao Miyazaki comes the visually stunning The Cat Returns. Haru, a schoolgirl bored by her ordinary routine, saves the life of an unusual cat and suddenly her world is transformed beyond anything she ever imagined. The Cat King rewards her good deed with a flurry of presents, including a very shocking proposal of marriage to his son. Haru embarks on an unexpected journey to the Kingdom of Cats where her eyes are opened to a whole other world and her destiny is uncertain. To change her fate, she’ll need to learn to believe in herself and appreciate her everyday life.

From Studio Ghibli comes another classic japanese tale (no pun intended, or is it?).   Excellent voice acting and expert animation make this film a must see for Anime and film fans alike.

Whisper of the Heart by Hayao Miyazaki

During summer vacation, a schoolgirl named Shizuku, who longs to discover her true talents, observes an ordinary-looking cat riding by himself on the train. Intrigued, she decides to follow him. This chance encounter leads her to the mysterious Seiji, a boy who is determined to follow his dreams, and The Baron, a magical cat figurine who helps her listen to the whispers in her heart. Soon, Shizuku’s exciting adventures carry her far beyond the boundaries of her imagination.

Miyazaki has done it again with this incredible story of imagination and joy!  Pure entertainment that can only be described as cute.

Nausicaa by Hayao Miyazaki

Of all Hayao Miyazaki’s films, this one is perhaps my favorite. Nausicaa is the story of a princess in trouble, her father has been killed and the world is slowly being consumed by “spores” which are fatal to humans. To help save the world by burning all the spores and destroying all enemies, multiple groups have come to the Valley of the Wind to resurrect a robot that was used in the Great War, and almost led to the end of humanity. Now it is up to Nausicaa to show the people of world that destruction is not the answer. Forgiveness and humanity are the major themes running through this Miyazaki film. If you are already fan of Miyazaki’s work do not pass this one up!

Porco Rosso by Hayao Miyazaki

When pigs fly is today! Another beautiful story from Miyazaki. Porco Rosso is the story of a man under a witch’s curse. The once arrogant, womanizing, flying ace, man was transformed into an arrogent, womanizing, flying ace, pig! Porco finds himself at odds with the local sky pirates which makes him a constant mark. There is also the female bartender, Porco’s love interest, who never gets involved with pilots which makes for a interesting relationship. This movie is hilarious and Michael Keaton as the voice of Porco Rosso is spot-on! Definitely worth checking out.

Princess Mononoke by Hayao Miyazaki

The spirit of the forest is dying. Death and destruction are everywhere and all in the name of progress. The animals know something is not right, men with their fires and steel are infecting the forest, and Princess Mononoke is the spirit of the forest’s last chance. Can she protect the forest from destruction or will a new force take over the world: the force of man.

Hayao Miyazaki is a legendary Japanese film maker. He is the founder of Studio Ghibili the most succusseful Anime film production company. His stories are always magical, engaging, and extremely thought provoking. He is loved all over the world and has fans of all ages.