Genre: Family

The film is really just a blatant rip-off of bigger, better movies and the majority of the martial arts action is simply laughable.

The high standards of satire and sentimentality that had previously been attained have been sacrificed in a bid to be ’more accessible’ – a double-edged sword if ever there was one.

With musings on death, love, nostalgia and responsibility, ‘McDull, Prince De La Bun’ is a mature work that provides entertainment with enough substance to appeal to every generation.

Samson Chiu can be congratulated for taking a bold step in a new direction while still retaining much of the gentle punch that is associated with the brand.

‘Pork Of Music’ is probably the best of the series, full of beautiful moments, delicate satire and heart-warming artwork.

‘My Neighbour Totoro’ is a true family classic that encompasses all of the elements of cinema that Miyazaki does so well.

Even though it feels a bit more like a series of shorts than a movie, ‘My Neighbours The Yamadas’ is another immensely entertaining outing from the Ghibli stable.

It may be a throwback, perhaps an antiquated one to some, but in an era of uninspiring cinema, it’s strangely welcome.

‘Ponyo’ is yet another strong Hayao Miyazaki movie that is as uplifting and enthralling as ever.

This comedy succeeds because of its wit and characterisation, two attributes that go hand-in-hand in the better efforts of the genre.

Humour, heart and high-level animation all combine to make ‘Spirited Away’ an overwhelmingly rewarding and endlessly magical experience.

Beginning somewhat sombre and low key before exploding into a cavalcade of colour and crazy (talking) creatures, ‘The Boy And The Heron’ is pure unbridled Miyazaki.