Japanese Anime - A good way for some escapism, relief and psychological comfort

[Diana]

I wanted to follow up on some of my favorite feature animes by Hayao Miyazaki (Studio Ghibli)...

1. For accessing your child within: My Neighbor Torturo

Torturo is an absolutely magical and endearing story about the wonders of being a child. It is not just for children. If you want to recapture that feeling, there is nothing like this movie.

2. For a feel-good, lighthearted look at the world: Kiki's Delivery Service

This is a story about a "witch" who sets out to find her place in the world. It's a sweet coming-of-age story and always makes me feel positive about the world and about staying the path when things get tough.

3. For anyone who loves the planet and all the creatures on it: Nausicaa and the Valley of the Wind

This is hands-down my favorite anime. It is a great story and very, very touching. It takes place after a cataclysmic phase leaving the planet partially toxic with the toxicity spreading. The heroine in this story—Nausicaa—is absolutely awesome. It comes in a Disney version called The Warriors of the Wind which is dubbed. Even that is great, but to get the full effect, watch the Japanese version with subtitles.

4. For an adventure with deep spiritual meanings: Spirited Away

Actually, all of Miyazaki's films have spiritual meanings. But it is definitely a feature of this one. It's about the trek into a deeper/alternate reality and back. 

5. For a great story about magic, with many awesome characters: Howl's Moving Castle

I actually only have the dubbed version of this, but the voice actors are good (Christian Bale is the main character's voice; Billy Crystal is another main voice). It's an absorbing, clever, and fun-to-watch story.