Spirited Away (a.k.a. Sen To Chihiro Kamikakushi) (Vol. 1)

Hayao Miyazaki's Spirited Away (a.k.a. Sen To Chihiro Kamikakushi) is an astonishing and magical film about a girl's spiritual journey, Mr. Miyazaki again shows that he is one of the best directors living in the world. Chihiro plunges into an alternate reality when on the way to their new home, the petulant adolescent and her parents find what they think is a deserted amusement park. Her parents stuff themselves until they turn into pigs, and Chihiro discovers they're trapped in a bathhouse where the traditional Japanese gods and sprites from all over Japan come to take a rest. An oddly familiar boy named Haku instructs Chihiro to request a job from Yu-baba, the greedy witch who rules the baths. As she works, Chihiro's untapped qualities keep her from being corrupted by the greed that pervades Yu-baba's empire. In a series of experiences she learns how to live, gaining the true will and power, changing from a sulky girl languidly lying on the backseat of a car, into a lively and truly courageous girl. The resolve, bravery, and love Chihiro discovers within herself enable her to aid Haku and save her parents. The result is a moving and magical journey, told with consummate skill by one of the masters of contemporary animation. Five Stars - a must see!!!