Many reviews Spirited Away (Spirited Away) , the iconic 2001 film from prolific director Hayao Miyazaki is a masterpiece of comfort and animation filled with lovable characters. However, a popular fan theory offers a dark interpretation of the popular film. The hypothesis is that Spirited Away is a subtle metaphor for a social evil and possibly human trafficking.
!["Spirited Away" Is it not as much a children's story as we thought it would be? - Photo 1.](https://gamek.mediacdn.vn/133514250583805952/2023/9/8/22-1458-1694161333060-16941613334221938430227.jpg)
Proponents of this theory consider the plight of Chihiro Ogino, the protagonist, and the characters she meets on her adventures as metaphors for aspects of the “sensitive” industry and its history. . The film is set in an old-fashioned public bathhouse, and the landlady Yubaba has looks and actions that bolster fan theories.
!["Spirited Away" Is it not as much a children's story as we thought it would be? - Photo 2.](https://gamek.mediacdn.vn/133514250583805952/2023/9/8/21-1458-1694161334063-1694161334141688863741.jpg)
The link between Chihiro and the “sensitive” industry is drawn closer when she is hired to work at a public bath with the new name Yuna – Sen. This is a term commonly used to refer to women working in the “sensitive” industry of the Edo period. The theory is that the circumstances in which Chihiro worked to save her parents is a metaphor for girls who are forced to work in bathrooms because of the family’s debt.
Fan theories Spirited Away also dig deeper into the character No Face. This masked spirit seems to be obsessed with Chihiro, he offers her gold and snatches her bath card, this action seems to symbolize No-Face’s attempt to buy Chihiro’s services. No Face’s persistent behavior reflects the reality of many people in the “sensitive” industry who live in loneliness.
!["Spirited Away" Is it not as much a children's story as we thought it would be? - Photo 3.](https://gamek.mediacdn.vn/133514250583805952/2023/9/8/2-1458-1694161335069-1694161335141540318131.jpg)
Despite fan theories, it’s important to point out that Hayao Miyazaki has never confirmed such interpretations. In fact, the director explained that the film was inspired by a vacation with his family and friends. Among them were five girls, with whom he wanted to create a heroine they could empathize with.
Fan theories, especially dark conspiracy theories for inherently innocent movies, are always appealing to audiences. Of course, before the affirmation of those who support the above hypothesis, there are also many people who have criticized and given opposing arguments. They believe that Spirited Away is a purely humanistic film with good lessons not only for young audiences but also for adults.
And you, what do you think about this movie?