My Neighbour Totoro
It’s not often that theatre can leave us speechless but this year My Neighbour Totoro has achieved just that. We were left with a huge smile on our face and created some beautiful core memories. Not only does it manage to maintain Studio Ghibli’s story without adding or losing any important parts, but it also infuses the whole story with an incredible charm and heart (similar in feel to the Paddington movies or WALL-E) that so many try to create but so few actually achieve.
Right from the beginning you are immediately dropped into this cute engrossing world. You fall in love with the funny heartfelt performances of the actors straight away. And when you finally meet the titular character for the first time there were audible gasps of joy and wonder from around theatre. Yet as charismatic and delightful as it is, it also deals with some really strong emotions and themes, which only strengthens its magic. Whether you are taking children or going solo, whether you are a Studio Ghibli fan or never heard of these movies beforehand, it doesn’t matter.
We’ll still grinning ear to ear just thinking about it…
Photos by @totoroshow
