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The Cat Returns
A Whisper of the Heart side story  
Studio: Studio Ghibli
Format: Movie Released: 7/19/2002 by Aisakku - July 25, 2004 
Between school activities and home life, things seem pretty plain and ordinary for Haru. In fact, so plain that Haru has even lost the sense of who she is and what she stands for. All this soon changes as Haru rescues a cat from an oncoming truck. Events begin to get very interesting for Haru after her dramatic rescue of the cat. During that same night, a small convoy of cats parading (yes, parading, that concept is still funny to me) down the street makes its way towards Haru's house. This procession turns out to belong to the Cat King of the Kingdom of the Cats, complete with a royal messenger, orator, and body guards. It turns out the Cat Haru saved was Prince Lune, son of the Cat King, and the King had presented himself to inform her of her "good fortune" to come. What could a bunch of cats possibly do?
Hirouki Morita, a faithful member of the Studio Ghibli production team, brings back Muta, the fat, train-riding cat and the Baron, the cat figurine from Whisper of the Heart for his movie The Cat Returns. Far less serious then Whisper, The Cat Returns follows Haru through her fantastical adventure in the Kingdom of the Cats as see she seeks to find a way back to her own world. The Cat Returns delivers its story in a typical fashion of children's fantasy story, which could be a turn off for certain viewers; however, if one looks past that fact The Cat Returns is a feel-good movie similar to the likes of My neighbor Totoro with it's entertaining comedy. From the misunderstood antics of the cats from the kingdom of the cats, to the bitter but lovable attitude of Muta, to the insane over-exaggerations, and reactions of the Cat King, The Cat Returns is filled to the brim with light uplifting comedy anyone could enjoy. Because of its predictable nature, the plot can be disappointing to those who are looking for an intriguing and event filled fantasy story. The Cat Returns is not about having a completely entrancing story or being an action packed movie. What makes this such a great movie is its faithful and uplifting comedy, and the intense imagination that fills every single scene. Morita has delivered us a movie that is fully worthy of being called a Studio Ghibli film. If you're looking for a fun movie to watch, be sure to check this one out. * * * 1/2 (Above Average) Updated: August 13, 2009
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