Kiki’s Delivery Service: this absolutely delightful fantasy animated film, by MIYAZAKI Hayao, tells the story of a young witch who, upon reaching the tender age of 13 years old, decides to follow the tradition of moving out of her parents’ house to lead an independent life and complete her training. The protagonist is lovely: innocent, sweet, strong, determined, smart; she is very well played by TAKAYAMA Minami (who also plays a supporting character). TODA Keiko plays the pregnant owner of a boulangerie who befriends the protagonist, in a warm performance; SAKUMA Rei plays the black cat familiar that accompanies her on the journey. The characters are lovingly designed, even if not the most elaborate, but their animation is great; the environments, particularly the European-inspired seaside town where she moves to, are a wonder, colourful, alive, and detailed. The musical score, by composer Joe Hisaishi, is lively and fun.