He's become a global icon and the symbol of Studio Ghibli for a reason.
Young Satsuki and Mei move to the countryside with their father to be closer to their ailing mother, but unlike the many other Ghibli films with a similar premise, they do not react to this circumstance with depression or alienation. Instead, Satsuki and Mei delight in their new rural surroundings, especially after they meet Totoro. The titular cuddly creature might be a forest spirit, or a unique breed of animal, or just an imaginary friend. Who needs to know the specifics? In any case, Totoro embodies the friendliness of nature and the magic of childhood. He's become a global icon and the symbol of Studio Ghibli for a reason. More than 30 years after its release, My Neighbor Totoro can still imbue viewers with wonder at the world we find ourselves in. — C.H.