Good films always raise compelling questions, whether the format is fiction or documentary fact.

Like the great film, it's made with a great deal of visible affection both in front of and behind the camera.

While it doesn't offer any answers, it both thrills and makes you think.

It's simply great fun, a winsome film and an occasionally over-the-top luxury fantasy that never flags.

I saw this last night, and I was deeply, deeply moved. This film is pure gold, a drink of clear water after a day in the sun. This is a story of hope, love, sacrifice, and the true meaning of selflessness. This film does not need to resort to preachy-ness, its message is shown through the deeds of Taro and what he inspires others to do for themselves. The art style is very distinctive, and beautiful. The landscapes feel very real, and the characters fit well within their world. The music and songs are lovingly crafted, and the story will leave you smiling through tears. This was an incredible work of love, and it deserves to be seen again and again. There is some slight nudity, but only once, and nothing sexual. I can't praise this one highly enough. See it for yourself, and you will understand.

When you are 3 years old and something touches you so deep, just like this anime did to me, you NEVER EVER forget it. You might forget the name of the characters, or the exact plot but it never goes, all the pictures stay inside (especially when these pictures are that impressing). That happened to me with this movie. I was so moved when I discovered it again! All these colors, the way the characters were drawn, the plot of course, EVERYTHING about this anime is perfect! And of course it is not only for kids or anime fans, this is a movie everyone must see. It is a movie about hope, and love and what someone can do for the person he loves the most and how many barriers he can overcome -wether he is as strong as Taro, or not. ;PThis is a movie that will wake the child inside you but this doesn't mean it is childish. On the contrary, it is a very mature movie and a masterpiece indeed!!!!

I first saw Taro when it was released by Turner on VHS back in the late 1980s. It instantly became a hit with my children, all three of whom came to love it; and we all watched it countless times. We were discouraged to learn that Turner had decided not to re-release the film on VHS, and we subsequently waited for years to see it come out on DVD. The artwork in this film is lovely, with many of the frames looking like a Japanese watercolor. There are elements of Japanese mythology here, as well as action, adventure, and important lessons in life and character building. Taro, an immensely strong and chubby orphan, must set out alone to discover the secret of his mother's disappearance. Along the way he learns that hard work, cooperation, honesty and ambition are essential to his survival. Children will enjoy the film and they may come to identify with the heroic Taro, the Dragon Boy, despite cultural differences and/or language barriers.

This is a beautiful rendition of what I assume is an old Japanese legend. The animation is simple yet satisfying because the illustration is so beautiful and compelling.The film presents the story of Taro, a young boy with great strength who leaves his village and friends to find his mother. During the course of his journey he learns much of the world. He frees himself of those who wish to use him and welcomes those who help. There is much delightful magic and powerful mythological truth in this film.I have an English language version (Turner Program Services) with exceptionally well done music and voices. My children have viewed this over and over again, and unlike Disney films, the adults have not tired of it. The music, language and story are both charming and profound.