Spirited Away (Hayao Miyazaki, 2001)
Miyazaki must hate his country, the dad drives an Audi. Anyway, this film is just gorgeous, even by Miyazaki's high standards. Everything is set in just such a perfect way that I'd almost be willing to say there is cinematography here. And again, Miyazaki exceeds his own high standards in the character creation here. There are just so many memorable designs. The soot spirits carrying coal would be a charming feature on its own. Having them all drop the coal on themselves, after Chihiro helps one out, makes it a classic moment.
Spirited Away actually feels a bit less focused on any particular thematic element and the plot doesn't necessarily make sense on paper, but it works so well in practice. All the little pieces fit together to tell of personal growth, not just of Chihiro but of most of the characters as they fight off their demons or weaknesses. The most central of course is Chihiro's story. Miyazaki's continued fondness for the maturation of young girls is at its apex with this story. The stakes of Chihiro's struggle are quite significant and she turns from a scared, clumsy girl into a strong, determined, heroic figure. This evolution feels so much more than some of the others (like Kiki's).
You also see echoes of Miyazaki's other themes; environmental concerns, pacifism (in this case the attempt to show all characters as ultimately good at heart, if made to seem evil by one factor or another). These are just shadings to round out the story and the world being created here. I really do think this works as the film where everything that defines Miyazaki is distilled into its pure essence.
Rating: 5/5