Kiki's Delivery Service

The first Miyazaki film I ever watched, though I forget what attracted me to it. It centers around a young witch named Kiki who leaves home as a right of passage with her cat Jiji before moving in with a couple who run a bakery. To pull her own weight in the shop, Kiki uses her power to fly via broomstick to make quick deliveries for the couple's customers. During her adventures, she becomes the love interest of a rather geeky young aviation lover named Tombo. I think what makes this film work is that it doesn't operate like an anime. There's no wacky silliness or exaggerated facial features, the characters are portrayed as real people. Kiki is an average teenage girl who faces many issues that teenagers must contend with. She doesn't use her powers to fight bad guys or get back at those who displease her, and that makes her all the more likable. I think another reason I like this movie is because Jiji has some funny scenes of his own. Overall, just a taste of the genius of Mr. Miyazaki that I feel people of all ages can enjoy.