The Cat Returns

This is the story of Haru, a typical schoolgirl with typical schoolgirl problems like boys, homework and family. But she is kind at heart, feeding stray cats and putting her own life in danger when she sees a cat carelessly crossing the road. Little does she know that she has saved the life of Prince lune and the debt is about to be repaid in very unexpected ways!

The storytelling animation is simpler than many Ghibli films but there are some lovely, and lovingly created establishing shots of Japanese street scenes that are packed with life and detail.

It is good to see the baron again, although Matu seems to have put on a great deal of weight since “whispered of the heart”. I think it is a bit of a shame that the story is only result through violence (although no cats seem to be permanently hurt in the process), it might have been good to resolve things through negotiation and mutual understanding rather than a big punch up. Even though there were some lovely moments and the resolution was ultimately satisfying.

As always there are examples of Ghibli magic and imagination, I lived the idea of arresting your fall by stepping down an endless staircase of flying crows and the Kings security cats were just sublime genius.

Not the strongest film from the studio but everything they produce is worth watching, there are always gems somewhere in the runtime.