DVD review: Castle In The Sky

After reviewing three masterpieces in a row from Studio Ghibli, Castle In The Sky feels a little..puny. Not bad mind you. But it may just be the weak link at Studio Ghibli.

Sheeta, a young woman, is attacked by air pirates while being escorted by a a shady general. She soon learns (along with a man named Pazu) about Laputa, the last remaining floating city in the world.

Visually, the film is a treat like all Ghibli films. But the film feels like 10 minutes could easily be snipped, mainly chase scenes. The film just also dosen't have the basic emotions perfect, like Totoro or even Ponyo. Still, it's nearly impossible for Hayoa Myizaki to make a dud and this fillm still delivers thrills and excitmeent. It's just a little too plodding.

Rating: 8.4 out of 10 or A-

SYS

DVD Review: My Neighbor Totoro

Ghibli delivers! That's the main thing I can say about Totoro, one of the greatest films ever. Hayoa is a defenite filmmaker and this is the perfect slice of how great he can be.

Satsuki and Mei move into a new house in Japan, only to discover two small spirits who lead the girls to..Totoro, the keeper of the forest. However, the girls mother is getting sicker and sicker and soon Totoro (and a Catbus) will become more and more important to he girls...

The animation of this film will leave you breathless and the entire film reminds you fo E.t. or (For modern comparision) How To Train Your Dragon. The girls seem real, showing Hayoa Myizaki's knowledge of chuldhood. This would be kept up in the almost equal film Ponyo. The film itself boats great visuals pacing and heart. Easily one of the best movies ever, it's quite a charmer and will leave you breathless.

Rating: 9.3 out of 10 or A+

SYS