Knitting Pretty

Do you have a film that you put on and it just whisks you into an imaginative reverie? A film that makes you feel happy, peaceful, and emotional all at once? I absolutely do! For me, this film is My Neighbour Totoro. I saw this film only a few years ago, but it is one of those that just seem to fit right in with me.   This is a brilliant offering from the acclaimed animator  Hayao Miyazaki, who is probably more famous for Sprited Away - another awesome film - and Howl's Moving Castle.

I know that not everyone find Totoro as enchanting and joyus as I do; my fiance for instance finds it a little sad and depressing, because of the mother's illness. I understand that, but those aspects of the film draw back for me, what does stand forward and gains my attention is the forest, the spirits, and the Totoros. This celebration of life, from the exuberance of Mei, to the staunch Satsuke, to the giant  Camphor Laurel tree, and of course the larger than life Totoro is more than a little magical to me. It is uplifting to have the movie on, even if I am not actually watching it! 

I actually prefer to watch the film in English dubbing because I think Dokota and Elle Fanning did absolutely wonderful jobs with the voice acting. Elle as Mei couldn't be more perfect, she has such a wonderful little squealing voice that is a delight to listen to, and they work so very well together. There is a little video on You Tube of the English dubbing cast talking about their work on the film, and this really shows the wonderful rapport between the two little girls, and how that aspect of their personalities carries through the film. Also, I would like to travel by Catbus for the rest of my life! They have a real one (well, sort of)  in Nagasaki!

So if you haven't seen it, go and see it now! Right now! I have the DVD and you should too!  Now on to today's knitting pattern. I thought today's pattern has to be a Totoro of some sort. Now, this pattern is actually a toilet paper cover, but when I make it, which I will, it will be a stuffed toy.