A tale of wee folk.

As expected out of Studio Ghibli, Arrietty is another cute and imaginative fantasy. It is quite charming to watch a group of wee people sneaking around and “borrowing” things. There isn’t much action or strong conflict in this movie, but as it is with Ponyo, the artwork, the imaginative concept, the characters, and the overall cuteness make the movie appealing.

The story is not terribly strong. It does a fine job of establishing the characters and showing how perilous their world can be. However, even though the film establishes the dangers, it rarely throws the characters into peril (you can find a lot more peril in something like Honey, I Shrunk the Kids).  Arrietty does set up some slight conflict among the characters, but it never reaches a critical point; the film overall feels safe (which could be good or bad). My only other major complaint about this movie is simply that it doesn’t feel as lively or imaginative as other Studio Ghibli films. Maybe this film will resonate differently with others, but I felt more spirit coming out of Ponyo, Spirited Away, Castle in the Sky, and others. Given these issues, you might think I disliked the movie; on the contrary, it met my expectations and was quite charming, it just didn't blow me away.

Fortunately, the animation quality is still top-notch. Backgrounds are nicely detailed and rendered. Movements are smooth. Character designs are pleasing, and designs for the settings and props are decent. The film has okay writing. Music is lovely.

Casually recommended.

4/5 (Entertainment: 4/5, Story: 3.5/5, Film: 4.5/5)