Studio Ghibli's Most Memorable Animal Companions

Introduction

Studio Ghibli's heroes often have great animal companions helping them. Even the strongest anime heroes can't go through their adventure alone, which is why some have Studio Ghibli's best animal companions to help them. These creatures, real or fantastical, are an integral part of the world and story they're involved in. Sometimes, they become more popular than the actual protagonists. As expected from Ghibli's top-notch writing and appealing animation style, all of these characters are memorable in their own ways. Whether for their witty lines or the big personalities that shine through even if they're silent, audiences have loved them for decades.

Introduction

Totoro Is An Iconic Spirit

In their new home in the country, Mei and Satsuki meet a number of forest spirits. From the Catbus to the soot sprites, they're amazed and fascinated to discover the existence of each one of them. Chief among them, of course, is Totoro himself. Totoro is unlike any other animal, but his signature appearance is similar to a huge, friendly cat. He doesn't speak, but he quickly makes friends with Mei, who isn’t one bit afraid of him, and when Mei goes missing, he's more than happy to help Satsuki reunite with her sister. He's made enough of an impression on audiences that he’s become Studio Ghibli's official mascot: even anime fans who haven't watched the classic film are familiar with Totoro.

My Neighbor Totoro

Totoro's significance in the film 'My Neighbor Totoro' goes beyond being just a cute and friendly creature. He represents the wonder and magic of childhood, and his presence is a source of comfort and joy for the characters and the audience. Totoro's iconic design and gentle nature have solidified his place as one of the most beloved and recognizable characters in Studio Ghibli's repertoire.

Satsuke and Totoro staning in the rain under umbrellas

The Cat Is Quiet But Essential

In the movie 'Whisper Of The Heart,' the actual cat is a background character, but it is quietly integral to the story. The cat leads Shizuku to the antique shop, where she finds inspiration for her first book and meets the people who give her the courage to write it. The cat is also the first to hear about Shizuku's deepest insecurities, making them clear to the audience before she opens up to any actual people. Despite its quiet presence, the cat's role in guiding Shizuku towards self-discovery and creativity is crucial to the narrative of the film.