In the United States, Disney dominates the realm of fairytale/folktale movies. Studio Ghibli is Disney's Japanese equivalent as many of their films draw heavy inspiration from Japanese folklore.
My Neighbor Totoro, released right before Disney's Renaissance, is an example. On the surface, it promotes spiritism through the benevolence of Totoro and other spirits. Animism is also present as the characters pray to nature. However, Christian viewers can simply watch this as a fantasy tale and even notice some positive family values.
Sisters Satsuki and Mei are inseparable, so much that Mei even joins her older sister at school. Their relationship with each other, as well as with Totoro, the other forest spirits, and their family and friends, comprises the film's heart. Satsuki and Mei's adventures also give off nostalgia for older viewers who remember their own playful childhoods.
As protagonists, Satsuki and Mei lack internal conflict. However, that doesn't hinder the film's enjoyment level; the character relationships, breathtaking animation, cute character designs (especially of the small spirits), and video game-inspired score make up for it.
My Neighbor Totoro doesn't have much of a goal, either; the plot centers around the girls' adjustment to their new home and much of the tension arises from their mother's illness. Mei, despite being four years old, even runs off on her own a few times; one of these trips start the climax.
The movie's positive family values include sacrifice and kindness. For example, Satsuki and Mei wait in the rain for a long time for their father to arrive at the bus stop. Satsuki also attempts to find Mei when she gets lost. Finally, if Christian viewers look past the spiritism and animism, Totoro's kindness towards the girls is another trait to aspire to.
Overall, My Neighbor Totoro makes for an enjoyable watch for fans of anime or those simply seeking something nostalgic and lighthearted.
