My Neighbor Totoro

My Neighbor Totoro

Year: 1988

Runtime: 86 min

Language: Japanese

Director: Hayao Miyazaki

FantasyAnimationFamily

While awaiting their mother's recovery, two spirited sisters, Satsuki and Mei, move with their father to the countryside. They find a charming home and explore their new surroundings, encountering magical creatures and the wonder of nature. Their adventures lead them to the lovable giant Totoro, a friendly forest spirit who becomes their companion and brings joy to their lives as they navigate a challenging time.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

Trace every key event in My Neighbor Totoro (1988) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Move to a New House

After World War II, Professor Tatsuo Kusakabe moves with his two daughters, Satsuki and Mei, into an old house in Japan. The house is situated near the hospital where their mother, Yasuko, is recuperating from an illness, setting the stage for the family's new life and adventures.

Post World War II Japan
2

Encounter with Susuwatari

Upon moving in, the sisters discover the presence of whimsical spirits known as susuwatari, who are visible when moving between light and shadows. This adds an element of mystery and magic to their new home, hinting at the unseen wonders that await them.

3

Meeting Totoro

During an exploration, Mei meets two small spirits that guide her to a gigantic camphor tree. Here, she encounters Totoro, a larger spirit, and believes she has found a magical friend from her storybook, creating a bond that will shape their experiences.

Camphor tree hollow
4

Dreaming with Totoro

After her adventure with Totoro, Mei falls asleep on him, resting in his comforting presence. When Satsuki finds her awake, Mei struggles to explain her new friendship, showcasing the innocence and magic of childhood imagination.

Camphor tree
5

Satsuki Meets Totoro

While waiting for their father’s bus, Totoro manifests beside Satsuki and Mei, marking the first time Satsuki sees this enchanting creature. Totoro, touched by Satsuki's kindness, rewards her with seeds and nuts after accepting her umbrella during a rainstorm.

Bus stop
6

The Catbus Arrives

Shortly after, a colossal cat-shaped bus appears, which Totoro boards, disappearing into the mist. This whimsical encounter adds to the joys of the sisters' adventures, blending reality with the magical elements of their surroundings.

Bus stop
7

Magical Dance of Totoro

After planting the seeds gifted by Totoro, the sisters witness a magical event at night where Totoro and his spirit friends dance around the newly planted seeds. This enchanting celebration causes the seeds to sprout into a giant tree, symbolizing growth and wonder.

Night Kusakabe residence
8

Adventure on Totoro's Top

In the midst of this magical experience, Totoro takes Mei and Satsuki on an exhilarating ride on a flying top. This fantastical journey represents the joy and freedom of childhood, strengthening their bond with their new friend.

9

News of Mother's Health

The joyful atmosphere is disrupted when Mei learns that her mother's hospital visit has been postponed due to her treatment setback. This news creates tension between the sisters, leading to a deep emotional struggle during a time supposed to be filled with wonder.

Kusakabe residence
10

Mei's Journey to the Hospital

In an attempt to comfort her mother, Mei decides to journey to the hospital carrying corn as a gift. However, her determination leads her into a confusing situation, ultimately getting lost in the search for her beloved mother.

11

Satsuki's Panic

As night falls, Satsuki becomes increasingly worried about Mei's safety and rallies the neighbors to help search for her sister. The sense of urgency grows as they realize Mei has not returned home, showcasing the strong bond of sisterhood.

Neighborhood
12

Totoro and the Catbus

In her desperation, Satsuki calls upon Totoro for assistance. Responding to her heartfelt plea, Totoro summons the Catbus, a magical vehicle that brings Satsuki on an extraordinary adventure to rescue her sister.

13

Reunion of the Sisters

After a suspenseful search, Satsuki is united with Mei in a heartwarming moment filled with relief and joy. Their reunion not only highlights their sisterly bond but also emphasizes the key theme of family love throughout the story.

14

Healing and New Beginnings

After the emotional upheaval, the sisters learn that their mother’s condition has improved with a minor cold, allowing the family to reunite. They leave a corn offering at her hospital window, symbolizing their love and support during the difficult time.

Hospital
15

Back Home with Totoro

With their family reunited and their mother's health stabilizing, Mei and Satsuki return home. Embraced by the ethereal presence of Totoro, the sisters rediscover the joys of childhood, their spirits uplifted by the magic surrounding them.

Kusakabe residence

Last Updated: November 22, 2024 at 19:09

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My Neighbor Totoro Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in My Neighbor Totoro

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Characters, Settings & Themes in My Neighbor Totoro

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