Princess Mononoke (1997)

Princess Mononoke (1997)

7/10

Starring the voices of

Yōji Matsuda

Yuriko Ishida

Yūko Tanaka

Kaoru Kobayashi

Directed by Hayao Miyazaki

This Japanese animation is incredibly powerful, delivering a message that feels even more relevant now in 2020 with the ongoing climate change crisis. The plot is mature, the drama is epic, and there’s just the right touch of romance. The musical score intensifies the experience, making the movie’s over-two-hour runtime feel effortless. It never drags because the pacing is consistently engaging.

For a film made in the 90s, the animation is stunningly well-done. The visuals, particularly the depiction of the Forest Spirit, are a delight—especially in the climactic moments. The way the animation and plot come together at the end is truly awe-inspiring.

In the 90s, environmental concerns and the damage humans were causing to forests and wildlife were just starting to gain widespread attention. Now, two decades later, it’s said that the harm done to our atmosphere and earth might be irreversible. This film’s message remains as urgent as ever.

Written and directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki—who also gave us the unforgettable Spirited Away (2001)—this movie stands as one of Studio Ghibli’s finest achievements.

The story begins with the introduction of Ashitaka, the prince of a village under attack by a demon-possessed boar. Ashitaka heroically defends his village but is cursed by the demon’s touch in the process. Though he manages to kill the boar, the corruption spreads through his right arm. The villagers inform him that the boar was once a forest god named Nago, who came from the western region. To save himself, Ashitaka must journey west in search of a cure.

During his journey, Ashitaka discovers that the curse has granted him superhuman strength. He meets a man who tells him the only way to heal his arm is to find the Great Forest Spirit.

As his quest continues, Ashitaka encounters a colony that produces guns and mines iron, damaging the forest in the process. The colony is under attack by a fierce young girl, San, and her giant wolf companions, who are fighting to protect the forest.

Ashitaka finds himself torn between the two sides, attempting to broker peace and end the violence. However, his loyalty to both factions alienates him from everyone. Meanwhile, his curse remains unresolved, and the clock is ticking on his survival.

This animation was both a critical and commercial success and is widely regarded as one of Studio Ghibli’s finest works. If you have not seen it yet, please do.