Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away was released in Japan in 2001.
Hayao Miyazaki wrote and directed the film, which follows Chihiro after her parents are transformed and she becomes trapped in a supernatural bathhouse. The story combines Japanese folklore, fantasy, and a coming-of-age journey.
Spirited Away became a major commercial and critical success. It eventually surpassed the Japanese box-office record previously held by Princess Mononoke, another Miyazaki film.
The film is often confused with Howl’s Moving Castle because both feature magical worlds and celebrated Miyazaki animation. Spirited Away is distinct for its bathhouse setting and its focus on Chihiro’s changing identity and courage.