Chihiro's journey

You could put this film in the genre of 'coming of age' films.  The protagonist goes on a journey, there is an inciting incident which peoples them on a quest and the voyage of self discovery begins.  Usually the hero becomes a better person by the end or has learned some truths about life.

We identify with the young female protagonist and her journey. It is through kindness and love that she conquest all.  A common theme in film and an aspirational message for young people.
 Chihiro gains followers through her innocence, hope and positivity, improving lives and inspiring others. It is her sort of super power.

It is also about overcoming fears like a lot of coming of age films especially American teen horrors.  IN this case it is the fear of moving to a new place with new friends and a new school. By the end Chihiro has learned to embrace change and avoid fear.  See the possibilities and engage with life.

Chihiro goes down the rabbit hole and discovers herself in this imaginary world just like Alice.  She learns bout the harsh truths of life such as greed and injustice and comes across characters as vivid as the Queen of Hearts and the Mad Hatter.  It is like a fevered dream or a nightmare but our heroine comes out stronger, focused and informed.

As John Lasseter says in the extras,the film asks the question ' how do you keep your innocence and good nature and not become a stroppy teen.'  Also how do you avoid being influenced by the negative role models or monetsr that might surround you?

Other themes that you can explore in the film include;

• concern for the environment
• valuing cultural heritage
• celebrating Japanese culture
• exploring the spiritual elements of Japanese culture and religion
• the clash between westernisation and traditional Japanese culture