Majo No Takkyubin (1989)

Kiki, a young witch-in-training, (voiced on the Disney release by Kirsten Dunst) has reached the age of 13. According to tradition, all witches of that age must leave home for one year, so that they can learn how to live on their own. Kiki, along with her talking cat Gigi (voiced by the great Phil Hartman), fly away to live in the seaside town of Korico. After starting her own delivery service (using her broom as the delivery vehicle), Kiki must learn how to deal with her new life, especially after she loses the power to fly. Hilarity ensues.

Trivia: When Kiki first arrives in the city, she is almost hit by a bus bearing the name "Studio Ghibli". This is the name of Miyazaki's animation studio. Ursula's painting is titled "The Ship Flying Over The Rainbow", and was painted by the students of a school for challenged children. The dialogue during a scene in which Kiki is given coffee, changes the beverage to hot chocolate in the Disney release. This was done because Disney thought it was inappropriate for children to drink coffee. The video subtitles also mention hot chocolate, although the Japanese "kohii" ("coffee") is clearly audible on the soundtrack. Kirsten Dunst's childhood nickname was Kiki. The 1998 English language version is dedicated to the memory of Phil Hartman, who was murdered by his wife that same year. This was his last project.

This movie fits into my Halloween theme because Kiki is a witch. Otherwise this is a very good charming tale. Miyazaki is the master of Japanese anime with most of the major titles that have
been release in the states belonging to him. One of his staples is a strong female figure. Kiki really fits the bill in this one. Can you imagine leaving home for a year at the age of 13 by yourself? She doesn't even hesitate. This is a very good coming of age story.