Spirited Away (2001) Review: A Japanese Classic

Is Spirited Away worth watching?

Yes — Spirited Away remains one of the most celebrated films from Japan, with a 96/100 Celluloid Editorial Rating and enduring audience appeal. On Celluloid it holds a 96/100 Celluloid Editorial Rating, 96% Audience Snapshot, 96 Metascore, 4.4 on Letterboxd, and 8.6 on IMDb — numbers that explain why it still surfaces on every “best of Japan” list.

What is Spirited Away about?

A sullen girl wanders into a spirit world where she must work in a bathhouse for witches to rescue her parents and find her courage. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, the film stars Rumi Hiiragi, Miyu Irino, Mari Natsuki, and remains a reference point for Animation and Fantasy filmmaking from Japan.

Should you watch Spirited Away?

Yes, without hesitation — Spirited Away rewards viewers who want more than algorithm-friendly new releases. At 125 minutes, it more than earns its running time — and the critics’ consensus still resonates today: Miyazaki’s masterpiece won the Oscar for animation and remains Japan’s most beloved export.

Where can I watch Spirited Away?

Streaming availability varies by region — check major platforms in your country or local cinemas for revival screenings. Spirited Away (2001) is widely indexed on IMDb (tt0245429) and remains one of the most searched classic titles from Japan on CelluloidScore.com.