Spirited Away (DVD)

SPIRITED AWAY - While on holiday with her parents, a young girl named Chihiro accidentally stumbles into an enchanted village where ancient Japanese demons go for rest and relaxation. After her parents are transformed into enormous pigs, Chihiro is forced to take a job as a cleaning girl in a spirit-filled onsen (Japanese bath house). Caught in a strange new world of spirits, she must call upon the courage she never knew she had to free herself and rescue her parents. 132 mins. Director Hayao Miyazakis finest work and one of my favorite films, with a fantastic story and magnificent animation, its a gem for all ages. (Chris M.)