Castle in the Sky

Castle in the Sky is a beautifully animated movie created by Hayao Miyazaki.  It's plot reminds humans that from nature we come and because of that, we should always be respectful and mindful of the effect we as a species have on nature.  The various aspects in this imaginative film show that remembering human's roots will save us when the time comes.

The two main characters of the film, both of whom have a very virtuous nature, were raised to appreciate the earth and what it yields.  Sheeta grew up on a farm and Pazu lives in mining village.  In fact, the entire town is portrayed as benevolent due to the fact that they defend Pazu and Sheeta against the pirates, no questions asked.  The miners would have no life source if they didn't find precious metals in the earth, and since they respect the earth they are heroes in the film.

Also Laputa, the floating city, was once a great source of power.  However, over the years the city has been overrun by a giant and seemingly majestic tree that is a peaceful sanctuary for birds and other animals.  When Muska tries to disrupt the peaceful city and use its power for evil, he ends up getting blinded.  Symbolically, he can never see the light that the sun provides for warmth and growth.  In contrast, Sheeta and Pazu use the power of Laputa to save Earth and the city itself.  Instead of maiming them, the tree saves them from eminent doom, reminding the audience once again that the roots of our humanity must be remembered and appreciated.