Spirited Away (2001)
2001 • TMDB 8.5 • 2h 5m • Animation, Family, Fantasy
Overview
Ten-year-old Chihiro is sulking about moving to a new town when her family takes a wrong turn and wanders into an abandoned theme park. As dusk falls, the park comes alive with spirits, and her parents are transformed, leaving Chihiro alone in a world that runs on strange rules. To survive and free them, she takes work at a grand bathhouse for spirits, where she must remember her name, earn the trust of the mysterious boy Haku, and learn courage she did not know she had. Hayao Miyazaki fills every corner with invention, from a greedy witch and a silent, faceless guest to a train gliding across open water. Beneath the wonder is a coming-of-age story about responsibility, kindness, and growing up without losing yourself.
Director & Cast
- Director: Hayao Miyazaki
- Rumi Hiiragi as Chihiro (voice)
- Miyu Irino as Haku (voice)
- Mari Natsuki as Yubaba / Zeniba (voice)
- Takashi Naito as Father (voice)
- Yasuko Sawaguchi as Mother (voice)
- Tatsuya Gashuin as Aogaeru (voice)
- Ryunosuke Kamiki as Boh (voice)
- Yumi Tamai as Rin (voice)
Why Watch Spirited Away?
It won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, and it is easy to see why: few animated films feel this rich, strange, and emotionally true at once. Miyazaki trusts young viewers, letting Chihiro grow through work, mistakes, and small acts of generosity rather than easy victories. The hand-drawn world rewards repeat viewing, with details, creatures, and quiet moments that linger long after the credits. It is a perfect first Studio Ghibli film and a timeless favorite for longtime fans.
Official Trailer
Watch the official trailer on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDUFP7EeXLE.
Where to Watch
In the US, Spirited Away streams on HBO Max and the HBO Max Amazon Channel, and is available to rent from $3.99 (Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home, Plex) or buy from $9.99 (Amazon Video, Apple TV Store) and $11.99 (Fandango At Home). Check current availability on JustWatch US.
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Poster: TMDB. Rating and runtime verified on TMDB. Streaming status checked on JustWatch US, October 29, 2026.
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