The Cat Returns is a delightful little Ghibli film that doesn't try to be Spirited Away—and that's fine. It's breezy, funny, and beautifully animated, with a sweet message about standing up for yourself wrapped in a surreal cat adventure.

The 'involuntary engagement' premise sounds bonkers but it's handled with zero creepiness—just pure absurdist comedy as Haru tries to politely escape a talking cat prince who thinks she's his soulmate. Kids will giggle at the ridiculousness.

The main knock? It's slight. This isn't a tear-jerker or a profound meditation on growing up. It's more like a really good Saturday morning cartoon elevated by Ghibli's artistry. Some kids (especially those raised on Bluey-level pacing) might find it slow. But for families looking for genuinely wholesome, imaginative content that won't rot brains or traumatize anyone, this is a solid pick.

It's available on HBO Max, so if you've got the subscription and 75 minutes to spare, it's a lovely way to introduce younger kids to Ghibli's gentler side.