My Neighbor Totoro is widely regarded as one of the greatest anime movies of all time. The Studio Ghibli classic was a phenomenal success during its original theatrical run and remains one of the most beloved animated films ever made. Now, years after its acclaimed release, My Neighbor Totoro is returning to theaters across North America this month, giving fans another chance to experience the iconic film on the big screen.
The re-release is part of this year’s Studio Ghibli Fest and includes a limited theatrical run, a special behind-the-scenes featurette, and screenings in both the English dub and the original Japanese version.
My Neighbor Totoro Screening Schedule
According to a joint announcement from GKIDS and Fathom Entertainment, My Neighbor Totoro will return to select North American theaters beginning July 11 with the English dub. Additional English-language screenings are scheduled for July 12 and July 15. Fans who prefer the original Japanese version with English subtitles can watch the film on July 13 and July 14.
Each screening will also include a special bonus feature, Creating My Neighbor Totoro, a behind-the-scenes featurette that offers a closer look at the making of the Studio Ghibli classic. The featurette is rarely shown in theaters, making this re-release a unique experience for fans.
The Story Behind My Neighbor Totoro
First released in Japan in 1988, My Neighbor Totoro remains one of Studio Ghibli’s most iconic films. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, the story follows sisters Satsuki and Mei as they move to the countryside with their father while their mother receives treatment at a nearby hospital. As they settle into their new home, the sisters discover magical forest spirits, including the gentle Totoro, the Catbus, and the soot sprites. Over the years, Totoro has become one of Studio Ghibli’s most recognizable characters.
The film was both a critical and commercial success. It earned more than $41 million at the worldwide box office and won several major Japanese film awards, including top honors at the Mainichi Film Awards and the Kinema Junpo Awards. Nearly four decades later, My Neighbor Totoro continues to be praised by audiences and critics alike, holding a 94% score from both critics and audiences on Rotten Tomatoes.
Why The Totoro Is Still So Popular
Totoro’s popularity has continued to grow since My Neighbor Totoro debuted in 1988. The character remains one of Studio Ghibli’s most recognizable mascots and continues to be featured in a wide range of collectibles and merchandise. Earlier this year, a premium oversized Totoro plush priced at around $700 quickly sold out after returning to sale, highlighting the character’s lasting appeal among fans. Nearly four decades after the film’s release, Totoro remains one of anime’s most enduring and commercially successful icons.
Where Totoro Fits in the Rest of Ghibli Fest 2026
The My Neighbor Totoro re-release is part of the broader Studio Ghibli Fest 2026 celebration. The annual event began in June with Ponyo and continues in July with My Neighbor Totoro. Fans can also look forward to more Studio Ghibli classics later this year, including Tales from Earthsea, Only Yesterday, and Castle in the Sky in August, followed by Princess Mononoke in September. The festival will conclude in October with a theatrical screening of Spirited Away.
How to Watch My Neighbor Totoro in Theaters
Since My Neighbor Totoro will be shown in theaters for only five nights, fans should check participating theaters and book their tickets early. It’s also worth deciding in advance whether you want to watch the English dub or the original Japanese version with English subtitles, as each is available on different dates. With the film’s lasting popularity and the exclusive behind-the-scenes featurette, tickets may sell out quickly at some locations.
