My Neighbor Totoro
Detailed Ratings
Plot 4.0/5
Characters 3.0/5
Animation 3.0/5
Soundtrack 2.0/5

My Neighbor Totoro

Animated Movie
-3
Balance
+0 -3
Score weighted by each hero's level: a recommendation from a level 3 hero counts for 3.
3.0/5
1
Reviews
Tome
From the editors, by Tome Updated on 29/03/2026

A Whiskered Wonder in the Forest

A massive, forest-dwelling creature with a Cheshire cat grin lounging under the sprawling canopy of an ancient camphor tree.


Such is the iconic imagery of Hayao Miyazaki's "My Neighbor Totoro" that it has become synonymous with the magic of cinema itself. Released in 1988 by Studio Ghibli, it's not just a film; it's a portal to a world where nature and imagination entwine.

The Story

This original tale invites you into the lives of two sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who have recently moved to the countryside. Their new home borders an enchanted forest filled with fantastical creatures, chief among them the mysterious Totoro. As they navigate this wonderland, their journey becomes one of discovery and gentle lessons, devoid of traditional villainy but rich in charm and mystery.

Animation and Visual Identity

The hand-drawn animation is quintessentially Ghibli,ethereal yet detailed, each frame painted with utmost care. Miyazaki's art direction makes every leaf shimmer, every raindrop resonate. The soundtrack by Joe Hisaishi is equally enchanting, weaving playfulness and poignancy through its melodies. It's art that breathes life into its world without rushing it.

The Ideal Audience

"My Neighbor Totoro" is crafted for dreamers of all ages. Its runtime of about 86 minutes ensures a concise yet profound experience suitable for children while being nuanced enough for adults to cherish. Free from mature content or franchise constraints, it's timeless storytelling that invites multiple viewings, beckoning viewers to revisit its serenity again and again.

-3
Balance
+0 -3
Score weighted by each hero's level: a recommendation from a level 3 hero counts for 3.
3.0/5
1
Reviews
Detailed Ratings
Plot 4.0/5
Characters 3.0/5
Animation 3.0/5
Soundtrack 2.0/5
Tome
From the editors, by Tome Updated on 29/03/2026

A Whiskered Wonder in the Forest

A massive, forest-dwelling creature with a Cheshire cat grin lounging under the sprawling canopy of an ancient camphor tree.


Such is the iconic imagery of Hayao Miyazaki's "My Neighbor Totoro" that it has become synonymous with the magic of cinema itself. Released in 1988 by Studio Ghibli, it's not just a film; it's a portal to a world where nature and imagination entwine.

The Story

This original tale invites you into the lives of two sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who have recently moved to the countryside. Their new home borders an enchanted forest filled with fantastical creatures, chief among them the mysterious Totoro. As they navigate this wonderland, their journey becomes one of discovery and gentle lessons, devoid of traditional villainy but rich in charm and mystery.

Animation and Visual Identity

The hand-drawn animation is quintessentially Ghibli,ethereal yet detailed, each frame painted with utmost care. Miyazaki's art direction makes every leaf shimmer, every raindrop resonate. The soundtrack by Joe Hisaishi is equally enchanting, weaving playfulness and poignancy through its melodies. It's art that breathes life into its world without rushing it.

The Ideal Audience

"My Neighbor Totoro" is crafted for dreamers of all ages. Its runtime of about 86 minutes ensures a concise yet profound experience suitable for children while being nuanced enough for adults to cherish. Free from mature content or franchise constraints, it's timeless storytelling that invites multiple viewings, beckoning viewers to revisit its serenity again and again.

Status: Completed
Publication: 1988
Country of origin: Japan
Original language: Japanese
Age rating: All Ages
Genres: Fantasy Slice of Life Supernatural

Reviews

GirlRainbow31
Translated from French

A "childish" anime

Someone recommended I watch it, and once I saw the anime, I didn't like it at all. I'd say it's better to watch it when you're a kid (except that in my time Japanese anime and manga didn't exist), but even compared to Teletubbies* (* which I didn't particularly like either) I find it better to watch than this anime. But that's just my personal opinion, make up your own mind about it.
Recommends:
−3 The value of a recommendation depends on its author's level.
Overall
Plot
Characters
Animation
Soundtrack
28
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