With the trademark Ghibli charm and airy optimism in almost every frame, it's something more than a rough gem but, lacking the symphonic flow of Spirited Away et al, not quite polished to sparkling.

Nearly three decades after its original release, Whisper of the Heart remains an appealing example of anime’s ability to make the ordinary feel magical.

Pure, concentrated Studio Ghibli.

Whisper achieves what we hope the best children’s fantasy does.