One of the best-loved Miyazaki anime features from Studio Ghibli, on the release of My Neighbour Totoro, few could have imagined the enduring impact of this masterful artist’s hand-crafted work.

Visually enchanting, it features two sisters who encounter spirit creatures in the forest when they go exploring the surrounds of their new house. Totoro is the neighbour who protects them, shields them from rain, and offers playful comfort from the adult world.

Notes by Alicia McGivern