Whisper of the Heart (1995)

Tama New Town, Tokyo, 1994. Intrigued by the mysterious bibliophile who reads the same books as her, 14-year-old daydreamer Shizuku has a life-changing encounter with a strange alley cat instead. And just like that, the passionate teenager embarks on an exciting quest to find her purpose in life. After all, the world is a wondrous place filled with out-of-the-way antique shops, enthusiastic violin makers, and magical feline mentors. However, as Shizuku tries to juggle school and ambition, looking for inspiration and opportunity in unexpected places, a question arises. Will talented Shizuku ever find the courage to listen to her heart's gentle whisper?—Nick Riganas