For something that starts off with a rather fast-paced pirate attack, this anime is overall pretty slow-paced, with quick bursts of action throughout. From getting a look into Pazu’s life, to the walk through the mines, to being imprisoned within the army base, not much happens. Unfortunately, that means the story is also a bit hampered- the dialogue that occurs often adds nothing to the story, either in character relations or in the backstory of what’s going on.

That’s not to say that this is a poor film- it’s filled with humor and adventure, and some parts that can really warm your heart and get it pounding! While not my favorite Ghibli leads, Pazu and Sheeta are fascinating and fully realized characters. Their roles are turned around for this film, with Pazu being the energetic and sweet one while Sheeta is more serious and determined. Usually those descriptions are reversed for the guys and girls in the films. Sheeta remains a wonderful lead, having faced many hardships and having been tempered by them. There is still a spark of hope that things can get better that remains alive, protected by Pazu when all seems hopeless.

The side characters are as charming as ever, with the band of air pirates being loveable goofs that swoop in at the last minute to save things. Muska is perhaps the most identifiably evil villain that has ever come out of Ghibli. He’s thoroughly determined to take power for himself and is willing to do anything for it, including getting rid of Sheeta and Pazu-permanently.

When this story gets on its feet and really rolling, it’s brilliant. The action, the story, and the characters all come together to make this one heck of an adventure film! The danger seems palpable, while the world that’s built in Laputa truly seems magical. It may be a more typical children’s film in terms of plotline, but that doesn’t take away from how great it is.

Violence/Gore- There is the typical cartoon violence and some rather exciting arial battles, but except for a robot being destroyed there’s no one getting hurt or killed. When on the island, some soldiers do fall off into the sky (this isn't lingered on and the impications aren't explored, it just... happens)

Theoogical Themes- The islands do seem to float by magic at first, but it seems that there are special rocks that were mined that allowed it, and a few words said by anyone with the royal bloodline can activate them. It's not really magic per say.

Violence: There are planes and airships that shoot at each other. Some guns are fired, though the worst injury anyone receives is a scratch to the face. Buildings are damaged, and soldiers fall from an airship, though no one sees what happens to them. I'd say it's typical PG level violence.

Sex and Nudity: None.

Theological Themes: Words spoken by the royal family of Laputa have a special effect, which seems magical.

Problematic Themes: None.

Overall: This was one of my favorite Ghibli movies as a kid. I really liked Sheeta and I thought the art was extra pretty in this one. It also made my interest in "Gulliver's Travels" increase, as Laputa seems to be inspired by the floating island of the same name in Jonathan Smith's novel. The characters are lively and colorful and the stakes were higher than any other Ghibli film that I had seen. The world that was crafted was definitely interesting and unique. It gives off its own special vibe, and it's definitely worth a watch. I recommend this one to older children and up.