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What is Spirited Away about?
Spirited Away is a profound tale of metamorphosis, of change both frightening and liberating. As a coming-of-age movie, it captures the essence of the universal transformative journey, not as a mere physical relocation but as a voyage of personal evolution.
The film centers around young Chihiro, a modern-day Alice in her own labyrinthine Wonderland, as she grapples with her own transition from child to adolescent. The spirit world that traps her is a metaphorical maze of her nascent adulthood, filled with symbols that echo realities she has yet to fully comprehend. This is essentially the meaning of the analytical storytelling term defamiliarization: make the incredibly familiar incredibly unfamiliar. By doing so, you can highlight the aspects of situations that heighten our awareness and emotions.
While fear, loneliness, and bewildering chaos pervade her sphere, Spirited Away balances these anxieties with an exploration of resilience, identity, and compassion. The film emphasizes the value of resourcefulness and courage in the face of adversity. Chihiro, initially a symbol of youthful naiveté, gradually matures into an embodiment of moral strength and determination, providing a model for navigating the complex transition of growing up.
Concurrently, the film underscores the concept of identity, portrayed through Chihiro’s name change to Sen, which becomes part of an ongoing struggle for self-recognition and preservation in a world that persistently seeks to erase personal identities. While traversing this otherworldly realm, the true battle lies in holding onto oneself.
Movie Guide table of contents
- Why is the movie called Spirited Away?
- The themes and meaning of Spirited Away
- The ending of Spirited Away explained
- Important motifs in Spirited Away
Cast
- Chihiro Ogino/Sen – Rumi Hiiragi
- Haku – Miyu Irino
- Yubaba – Mari Natsuki
- Zeniba – Mari Natsuki
- Lin – Yoomi Tamai
- Chichiyaku – Tsunehiko Kamijō
- No-Face – Akio Nakamura
- Akio Ogino – Takashi Naito
- Yūko Ogino – Yasuko Sawaguchi
- Chichiyaku – Tsunehiko Kamijō
- Aniyaku – Takehiko Ono
- Kamaji – Bunta Sugawara
- Hayao Miyazaki – Writer and director
Why is the movie called Spirited Away?
Like many titles, Spirited Away has both a literal and symbolic meaning. The literal interpretation is simple: we witness Chihiro, a young girl, being whisked away to an unknown land. Here, she is forced to fend for yourself without the help of her parents. It comes at a time when Chihiro is scared of moving to a new town with her family and having to make new friends. But the movie ups the ante by forcing Chihiro to make that journey in a fantastical world with absurd rules.
Most Studio Ghibli films are fantastic at creating metaphors for coming-of-age experiences. But Spirited Away, a film that fittingly won an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and at one time was the highest-grossing film in Japanese history, might be the most spectacular example of defamiliarization—a storytelling technique that focuses on making the unfamiliar feel very familiar. Mysterious, uncontrollable forces have brought Chihiro to an unknown land that resembles a twisted version real world. The rules are similar yet contorted, and the pressures are amplified. As she matures from a sheltered child into a resilient, resourceful individual in this adjacent realm, she’s readying herself for the real world—that’s the frame of this film.
Kamikakushi is a Japanese term that translates literally to “hidden by spirits” or “spirited away.” It’s derived from “kami” which means “god” or “spirit” and “kakushi” which means “hidden.” In the traditional Japanese context, this term refers to the phenomenon of people or things mysteriously disappearing, often attributed to the actions of supernatural entities or spirits.
This term is reflected in the title of Spirited Away—aka Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi, which directly translates to “Sen and Chihiro’s Spiriting Away.” The word “spirit” is where we can begin to peel back the profound layers of this film. Because it isn’t just Chihiro’s physical body that travels away from the human world to this strange abandoned theme park—it’s her inner being, her essence, her very soul.
When you’re young, life passes by at 100 miles an hour. We’re often playing catch-up and trying to keep in step with each passing moment. If we think about the future, we might think about getting old or accruing wealth. We are taught how to best position ourselves to find a job or find love. But absolutely nothing can prepare us for the spiritual journey we all inevitably face.
That can feel as crazy and daunting as what Chihiro undergoes in the film: a spiritual metamorphosis. It’s a similar formula used by other coming-of-age films, but Spirited Away focuses purely on her metaphysical transformation.
Fittingly, Chihiro is given a new name in this world, Sen. She is stripped of her mortal and mundane identity and forced to start from scratch. With reality gone, you could argue that only Chihiro’s “spirit” is left. Thus, she is “spirited away.”
And without all the mortal anxieties that had previously flooded her life, she is forced to solely focus on her spiritual growth. She is given a fresh start from the beginning, a blank slate, and tasked with constructing a person who has the power and determination to not only survive in a scary world, but thrive in it. In order to prosper and blossom in this strange new land, she must reflect on the transient nature of our existence. She must accept the inevitability of change. She must learn to be resilient in facing the ceaseless flux of life.
At the end of the movie when Chihiro leaves the spirit realm and returns to her parents, she has experienced a spiritual awakening. She is calmer, more empathetic, more compassionate, and mentally prepared for the obstacles of life. Her spirit goes away troubled, but comes back peaceful.
The themes and meaning of Spirited Away
Spiritual growth and transformation
As discussed in the title section, Chihiro’s physical body isn’t just whisked away to a strange land—her spirit goes as well. And here, her spirit’s name is Sen. And Chihiro is completely reliant on Sen in order to survive this scary world. She must look to Sen to be strong when she feels weak, to show bravery when she’s scared, to resilient when she believes there’s no way to win. People who cannot overcome their anxieties and deal with the real world will forever feel stagnant or lost. But Chihiro’s persistence and perseverance in the face of impossible odds displays her transformation from scared and apprehensive child to courageous and confident young woman. Sen is her guide on that journey.
Essentially, what we witness is Chihiro’s spiritual growth. While most coming-of-age films focus on the internal growth, they rarely defamiliarize the scenario by literally removing one’s spirit from our mortal realm. In this new world, Chihiro is entirely reliant on her spirit to forge ahead. If her spirit is weak, then she is weak. But as Chihiro’s spirit grows and deepens, her tenacity and willpower break new grounds. As Sen develops, Chihiro watches and learns and understands and evolves. She becomes more emotionally intelligent, her heart warms and strengthens, and her understanding of the world expands.
This is the energy she brings back to the real world when she returns to her parents at the end of the movie. She’s no longer scared about moving to a new town because she is spiritually centered.
Japanese philosophy in Spirited Away
Chihiro’s spiritual growth is deeply intertwined with Japanese folklore and philosophy and spirituality. These topics pervade Spirited Away, often subtly, adding depth and cultural specificity to the narrative that might go unnoticed by those unfamiliar with Japanese traditions. Let’s discuss three important facets that will enhance your understanding of the film: Kami, Mottainai, and On.
The role of Kami
In Spirited Away, the concept of Kami, or spirits, forms the fundamental structure of the narrative, shaping the world Chihiro finds herself in. From the very beginning, when Chihiro’s family stumbles upon what seems to be an abandoned amusem*nt park, we are actually witnessing a realm deeply rooted in the Shinto belief system, where Kami—which ranges from those little spiders to the swamp monster to No-Face—dwell and are revered.
The bathhouse, for example is populated by a variety of these Kami, each representing different elements and aspects of nature. They take on myriad forms, from the mysterious No-Face to the radish spirit and the many other unusual patrons of Yubaba’s bathhouse. These spirits—which at first seem like monsters to Chihiro—symbolize the profound Shinto reverence for all aspects of nature, highlighting the belief that every natural element, object, or concept houses a divine spirit.
Spirited Away presents the concept of Kami not as distant, superior beings, but as entities that exist within the same realm as humans, sharing in their joys and struggles. They display human-like emotions and traits, blurring the lines between the mortal and the divine. This aligns with the Shinto philosophy that views the spiritual and physical worlds as interconnected rather than separate. For instance, take the river spirit Haku, who becomes Chihiro’s ally. His identity as the spirit of the Kohaku River, and his story of saving Chihiro when she fell into the river as a child, underline the protective nature often attributed to Kami in Shinto beliefs.
In Spirited Away, the concept of Kami provides a spiritual framework for the narrative. It plays a critical role in shaping the setting, characters, and the themes, infusing the film with a sense of spirituality and natural reverence intrinsic to Japanese culture.
The principle of Mottainai
The principle of Mottainai, deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, embodies a sense of regret towards waste, valuing the complete utilization of an object or resource. In Spirited Away, this concept emphasizes a sense of respect for resources and a critique of wasteful behaviors.
The theme of Mottainai is most evident in the character of the Stink Spirit, who visits the bathhouse. What initially appears as a disgusting, filthy creature is revealed to be a river spirit, polluted and choked by waste, a vivid symbol of environmental degradation caused by human negligence and overconsumption. When Chihiro helps cleanse the spirit, pulling out tons of human waste and pollution, it is a direct commentary on our wasteful practices. This scene emphasizes the Mottainai principle by showcasing the harmful effects of not valuing and preserving our resources, particularly natural ones.
This theme is also reflected in the transformation of Chihiro’s parents into pigs after gorging themselves on food in the deserted amusem*nt park. Their mindless consumption, without respect or consideration for the resources at hand, manifests the concept of Mottainai by demonstrating the potential consequences of greed and wastefulness.
By incorporating the principle of Mottainai into its narrative, Spirited Away offers a poignant critique of excessive consumption and waste, while promoting a more respectful and sustainable approach to our environment and resources.
The influence of On
The principle of On, a key tenet of Japanese ethics that signifies a sense of moral indebtedness, plays a significant role in the character development and narrative progression of Spirited Away. It is through the lens of On that we can appreciate Chihiro’s actions and motivations throughout the movie.
Chihiro’s journey to rescue her parents is initiated and motivated by the concept of On. Haku, the river spirit, helps Chihiro survive in the spirit world when she first arrives, offering her food from the spirit world to prevent her from disappearing. This act of kindness creates a sense of On in Chihiro. She feels a deep sense of obligation towards Haku and, as the film progresses, her actions reflect her endeavor to repay this debt. She risks her own safety to get the medicinal herb to heal Haku, and later, she helps Haku remember his true name, thus freeing him from the witch Yubaba’s control.
Moreover, Chihiro’s treatment of No-Face also resonates with the concept of On. Even though No-Face is an outsider, feared and eventually despised by the bathhouse inhabitants, Chihiro consistently treats him with kindness. When No-Face spirals into a destructive rampage, it is Chihiro who offers him help, primarily motivated by the kindness No-Face showed her earlier.
The principle of On thus becomes a moral compass in Spirited Away, driving the protagonist to act with kindness and courage. It is a testament to the fact that in a world undergoing constant transformation, the values of gratitude, reciprocity, and responsibility hold steadfast.
The ending of Spirited Away explained
A recap of Spirited Away’s ending
No-Face is rampantly consuming large quantities of food and begins to devour the workers as well. Up in the penthouse, a hidden shikigami transforms into Zeniba, Yubaba’s twin sister, turning Yubaba’s baby boy, Boh, into a tiny mouse. Chihiro, Haku, and Boh tumble into the boiler room, where Chihiro gives Haku a piece of dumpling that will make No-Face vomit. This leads to Haku throwing up the stolen seal, lifting the lethal curse off him. Determined to return the seal and apologize to Zeniba, Chihiro decides to take Boh along.
She faces a bloated No-Face, who confesses his intense loneliness. Chihiro gives No-Face the remaining dumpling, leading him to follow her out of the bathhouse while slowly expelling all he had consumed. Lin guides Chihiro to the train station to visit Zeniba’s house at Swamp Bottom, and despite Lin’s objections, Chihiro encourages No-Face to tag along. Accompanied by No-Face and Boh, Chihiro travels using tickets provided by Kamaji. Meanwhile, Yubaba orders the execution of Chihiro’s parents, but Haku discloses Boh’s absence.
In exchange for bringing back Boh, Haku proposes a deal for the release of Chihiro and her parents. Yubaba consents, but only if Chihiro can successfully accomplish a last challenge. Chihiro visits Zeniba, who creates a magical hairband for her. Haku, in his dragon form, appears, and together with Chihiro and Boh, he departs for the bathhouse, leaving No-Face in Zeniba’s care. While in flight, Chihiro realizes Haku’s true identity as the spirit of the Kohaku River. Upon arrival, Chihiro successfully completes Yubaba’s challenge by claiming that none of the pigs are her parents, earning her the right to leave. Haku promises to meet her again, but she departs the spirit world with her oblivious parents, who have no memory of events post the initial restaurant visit.
Chihiro’s compassion for No-Face
The relationship between Chihiro and No-Face evolves from initial fear and misunderstanding to a deeper mutual respect and empathy. This evolution reflects the personal growth Chihiro experiences throughout the story.
No-Face initially appears as a silent, mysterious figure who is neither harmful nor particularly helpful. As the narrative progresses, No-Face becomes more dangerous and unpredictable, driven by loneliness, a desire for companionship, and the misguided belief that he can buy affection and attention through consumption and gift-giving. These attributes can be seen as a reflection of unchecked desire, consumerism, and the problems they can create.
Chihiro’s interactions with No-Face are key in her maturation process. While she initially fears him due to his alien nature, she does not reject him outright. Instead, she shows him kindness, giving him the attention he craves. When No-Face’s consumption becomes destructive, it is Chihiro who takes responsibility, feeds him the emetic dumpling, and guides him away from the bathhouse, a place that had amplified his negative behaviors. Her empathy, courage, and decisiveness in handling No-Face indicate her growth from a timid, scared child to a wise, brave young woman.
In terms of Shinto beliefs, No-Face can be viewed through the lens of Kami (a concept we discussed in the themes section), a term that describes the spirits or phenomena that are worshiped in the religion. Kami can be elements of the landscape, forces of nature, or spirits of the deceased, among others. They are not inherently good or evil but can bring fortune or disaster depending on how they are treated.
No-Face’s character aligns with this concept. He is sensitive to the environment and the behaviors of those around him, taking on the greed and gluttony prevalent in the bathhouse. When treated with kindness and respect by Chihiro, however, he calms down and becomes less destructive. This dynamic mirrors the Shinto belief that maintaining a respectful and balanced relationship with Kami is crucial for harmony.
Thus, No-Face’s role underscores one of the major themes of the film: that actions have consequences, and treating others with kindness and respect—regardless of who they are or how they appear—is a sign of maturity and wisdom. This understanding is a key part of Chihiro’s personal growth and forms an essential lesson in her coming-of-age journey. This is representative of her spiritual growth and why she’s ready for Yubaba’s final test.
Haku’s true identity
Chihiro and Haku’s relationship in Spirited Away is crucial to Chihiro’s transformation and self-discovery, representing her progression from dependence to interdependence, and mirroring her journey towards self-empowerment and maturity. When she remembers Haku’s true identity as the Kohaku River, it’s representative of her spiritual growth and brings resolution to several of the film’s themes.
Initially, Haku appears as Chihiro’s guide, protector, and mentor in the spirit world. He helps her navigate the initially overwhelming world of the bathhouse, instructing her on how to survive, introducing her to her tasks, and providing comfort in a scary, unknown world. This dynamic represents Chihiro’s initial state of dependence and lack of self-confidence.
However, as the story unfolds, Chihiro grows in courage and determination. She begins to take initiative and responsibility for her actions, and this transformation is exemplified in her relationship with Haku. When Haku is cursed and falls into a near-death state, Chihiro becomes his protector, showing initiative and bravery to save him. She takes a perilous journey to Zeniba to return the stolen magical seal, and feeds Haku the medicine that ultimately saves him.
This shift signifies Chihiro’s progression from a dependent child to a young woman capable of making her own decisions and taking care of others. Moreover, her ability to remember Haku’s true name symbolizes her newfound intuition and spiritual growth, showing her ability to see beyond the surface and perceive the deeper truth.
In the film, Haku had forgotten his true name and was under Yubaba’s control because of it. The theme of names and identity is a strong motif in the film, as losing one’s name equates to losing one’s sense of self, and thus, losing freedom. For Haku, being bound to Yubaba symbolizes this loss of personal identity and freedom.
Chihiro, in her process of self-discovery and growth, realizes Haku’s true name. As a child, Chihiro had fallen into the Kohaku River and could have drowned, but the river swept her safely to the shore. By the time she meets Haku in the spirit world, she has forgotten this incident. It’s only when she sees Haku in his dragon form, injured and near-death, that this memory resurfaces. In a moment of intuitive clarity, she remembers not only the incident but also the name of the river: Kohaku. Recognizing this name as Haku’s true name, she is able to break the spell over him.
The significance of this memory is multifold. Firstly, it represents the deep, forgotten connection between Chihiro and Haku. The Kohaku River, which saved Chihiro’s life, and Haku, who guides and protects her in the spirit world, are one and the same. This revelation brings depth to their relationship and shows that their bond was formed long before their encounter in the spirit world.
Secondly, this memory reflects Chihiro’s growth and her increasing spiritual sensitivity. Her ability to recall this memory in a crucial moment signifies her heightened intuition and empathy, the result of her experiences and growth throughout her journey.
Lastly, the revelation of Haku’s true identity through this memory is instrumental in resolving the movie’s central themes of identity, memory, and freedom. By helping Haku remember his true identity, Chihiro asserts the power of selfhood against forces of control and manipulation (as represented by Yubaba), underscoring the importance of remembering one’s roots and the power of names.
Yubaba’s final test
Yubaba’s final test is indicative of Chihiro’s growth throughout the film. At the beginning of the story, Chihiro was a fearful and reliant child who clung to her parents. As she navigates the spirit world, she gains independence, resourcefulness, and intuition. Her assertion that none of the pigs are her parents showcases her confidence and her developed intuitive understanding, qualities that she lacked at the beginning of her journey.
This test also brings resolution to the movie’s key themes. The theme of identity and selfhood is illustrated here as Chihiro displays her newfound wisdom and maturity. Despite Yubaba’s attempt to confuse her, Chihiro stands her ground, asserting her own understanding of her parents’ identity. The theme of love, specifically filial love, is evident in this scene as well. Chihiro’s unwavering determination to save her parents, despite all odds, reflects her deep love and concern for them. Lastly, the theme of freedom and liberation comes into play. By passing Yubaba’s test, Chihiro secures not only her freedom but also the release of her parents. This act symbolizes her triumph over the forces (Yubaba) that seek to control and manipulate others by erasing their identities.
The power of the final shot
With all this context, the very ending of the movie is incredibly satisfying emotionally. When they return to their car, the parents are bewildered that its covered in leaves and branches—a sign that several days (and perhaps weeks) have passed. The parents are consumed by the situation, which seems fairly menial and meaningless given the epic journey Chihiro just experienced. As this simple, everyday problem absorbs them, you can’t help but think about Chihiro’s spiritual growth: she has met strange and fascinating people, she has broadened her emotional intelligence, and she has grown more compassionate and thoughtful. She seems fairly centered in this moment. As her parents discuss the vehicle, she simply stares back at the tunnel where her journey began.
The father calls to Chihiro, “We’re off, Chihiro.” Then the mother, “Chihiro! Hurry up!” There’s something so beautiful about their call, as they have no idea what Chihiro has just gone through. For them, it’s simple: it’s time to go; we need to hurry. But Chihiro is leaving this fantastical land where she learned to remain still, to slow down and appreciate the world around her. It was in this mental state that she gained confidence and strength. She has experienced an intense emotional journey that’s for her and her alone—but that doesn’t mean the world stops. It is time to go. She does need to move on with her life. And you fully believe that in this new town, she’ll be ready to for the next stage of her growth, her maturation, her evolution. She may be leaving this place, but it will forever remain with her. Spiritually.
Important motifs in Spirited Away
Identity and names
In Spirited Away, names are crucial to the identities of characters. When Yubaba takes away Chihiro’s name, leaving her with the name Sen, it signifies the loss of Chihiro’s identity and freedom. When Haku forgets his name, he becomes Yubaba’s servant, unable to break free. Chihiro’s quest to remember her name and Haku’s is a journey of reclaiming their identities. The restoration of their true names represents personal freedom, self-discovery, and independence. It shows the power of remembering one’s roots and selfhood against forces of manipulation and control.
Environmentalism
Environmentalism, though not a direct motif, subtly permeates throughout the film and is closely linked to several of its themes. This motif aligns with director Hayao Miyazaki’s known advocacy for environmental preservation, which is evident in many of his other works.
One of the most significant environmental motifs is the polluted river spirit that comes to the bathhouse. At first, it is so polluted and full of sludge that the bathhouse workers mistake it for a stink spirit. Chihiro, through patience and courage, removes a massive amount of trash from the spirit, revealing its true form: a clean and serene river god. This sequence is a powerful commentary on the impact of pollution on natural resources, illustrating how human disregard for the environment can corrupt and disguise the true beauty of nature. It’s only through conscious effort and respect for the environment that we can restore its purity.
Haku’s identity as the spirit of the Kohaku River, which has been filled in and replaced by apartments, further emphasizes this motif. Haku’s loss of home due to human development reflects real-world issues of environmental destruction for urban expansion.
Greed and gluttony
The film heavily features the theme of greed and gluttony. Chihiro’s parents are transformed into pigs due to their gluttonous consumption of food from the spirit world. No-Face’s rampage in the bathhouse is driven by his desire to consume everything. These instances serve as a commentary on unchecked desire and overconsumption. They highlight the destructive consequences of greed and the importance of self-control and moderation.
Friendship and reciprocity
The bond between Chihiro and Haku, as well as Chihiro’s interactions with other characters like Lin, Kamaji, and No-Face, demonstrate the significance of friendship and mutual assistance. The concept of On—a sense of reciprocal obligation—plays out in these relationships. Chihiro’s willingness to help others even in dire circ*mstances underscores the importance of kindness, empathy, and reciprocal respect in building and maintaining relationships.
Transformation and growth
Chihiro’s journey from a frightened and dependent child to a resourceful, brave, empathetic young woman is central to the narrative. Her experiences in the spirit world force her to adapt, think on her feet, and act courageously. This motif of transformation is echoed in other characters too: Haku transforms into a dragon; her parents into pigs; No-Face changes with his environment. These transformations signify personal growth, adaptation, and the inherent potential for change within all beings.
Questions & answers about Spirited Away
What does No-Face represent?
No-Face is a spirit character who wears a mask and is initially silent. No-Face’s silence and masked identity represent its lack of self and purpose, which it attempts to fill by consuming others and their desires. Its inability to speak suggests its struggle to communicate and connect genuinely, instead mirroring others to gain acceptance. This becomes an important moment of growth for Chihiro, as she recognizes No-Face’s pain and displays empathy by treating it with respect. Chihiro herself felt out of place in this world and needed time to find her voice, so she forms a natural relationship with No-Face.
Why is it significant that Chihiro remembers Haku’s true identity?
The act of Chihiro remembering Haku’s true name and identity as the Kohaku River symbolizes the power of genuine connection and memory in maintaining one’s self in a world that tries to erase it. In the ending section, we discussed that by discovering Haku’s true identity, Chihiro is able to recall a forgotten memory and reconnect with a lost part of her inner self. As a child, she had fallen into the Kohaku River, and the spirit of the river, Haku, saved her. Their reconnection here serves as a metaphor for Chihiro’s kinship with something spiritual that transcends her mortal body.
In the context of Spirited Away, names hold power and are tied to one’s identity and freedom. By remembering Haku’s real name, Chihiro frees him from Yubaba’s control, emphasizing the themes of liberation and the significance of personal identities. Furthermore, this moment showcases Chihiro’s maturity and ability to perceive the truth beneath illusion and deceit.
Why was it so important for Chihiro to get a job in the bathhouse?
Securing a job in the bathhouse was vital for Chihiro’s survival in the spirit world. In the spirit world, everything, including existence, is transactional. Without a job, she would fade away and be incapable of rescuing her parents. Her employment symbolizes her stepping into the responsibilities and complexities of the adult world, underscoring the film’s theme of growth and maturity. Moreover, the job provides her with an opportunity to gain the respect and trust of the bathhouse’s inhabitants, crucial for her journey.
Why is it important for Chihiro to hide that she’s a human?
Chihiro’s human identity is perceived as a threat in the spirit world. Her scent as a human is detectable and alarming to spirits, making her a target of hostility and suspicion. Hiding her human identity protects her from these threats, allowing her to navigate the spirit world safely. Additionally, her effort to conceal her identity reinforces the themes of self-preservation and adaptation in unfamiliar surroundings, mirroring the challenges of transitioning to adulthood.
Why did No-Face go on a rampage in the bathhouse?
No-Face’s rampage in the bathhouse results from its unchecked consumption, symbolizing the dangerous implications of uncontrolled greed and desire. The bathhouse, filled with spirits driven by their own avarice, fuels No-Face’s consumption. Unable to handle these desires, it loses control, resulting in a destructive rampage. This event highlights the theme of materialism and its potential to harm individuals and communities.
Now it’s your turn
Have more unanswered questions about Spirited Away? Are there themes or motifs we missed? Is there more to explain about the ending? Please post your questions and thoughts in the comments section! We’ll do our best to address every one of them. If we like what you have to say, you could become part of our movie guide!
