My Neighbor Totoro Synopsis

DESCRIPTION

My Neighbor Totoro (1984) is a heartfelt tale of two young girls, Mei and her old sister Satsuki, who encounter Totoro, a gentle forest spirit, while exploring their new home in the countryside.

They live with their father, while their mother is recovering in a hospital nearby. When Mei learns her mother’s condition has worsened, she leaves to find her and ends up getting lost. Distraught, Satsuki pleads for Totoro's help, and with the support of the magical Catbus, they embark on a journey to find her.

CHARACTERS

Satsuki Kusakabe: Satsuki is Mei's older sister and takes on many household responsibilities while her father works and their mother is hospitalized.

Mei Kusakabe: Mei is the curious younger sister who embodies the innocence and wonder of childhood. In large part due to her playful imagination, and willingness to explore, she discovers Totoro, who is the forest spirit that ultimately ends up saving her.

Totoro: The gentle and mysterious forest spirit who lives in a giant tree next to Mei and Satsuki’s house. Totoro represents the spiritual connection to the natural world, and begs that, if you only listen and look around, you may just find what you need.

Catbus: big yellow furry cat that is also a bus! Totoro and other magical creatures’ mode of transportation that can soar in the air at the speed of light.