journey and return

His films like 'Spirited Away' and 'Howl's Moving Castle' center on protagonists who journey through magical worlds and must find their way home, with return symbolizing personal transformation and self-discovery.

His philosophical works, particularly 'Stalker' and 'Mirror', explore journeys as metaphysical quests where characters seek meaning and must confront what it means to return to oneself.

His silent comedies like 'Sherlock Jr.' and 'The General' feature protagonists embarking on elaborate journeys that ultimately affirm the value of home and human connection.