Princess Mononoke Recommended

Director
Hayao Miyazaki
Production
Nippon TV, Studio Ghibli, Tokuma Shoten
Country of origin
Japan
Format
Film
Running time
133 mins
Year
1997

Princess Mononoke

By Eric
21st May 04

During my time as a reviewer at Boredom for the eminent John Huxley, I have only issued a single perfect score (Generator Gawl). The famed 10 is, in my opinion, a score that should only be given out to flawless, truly remarkable masterpieces. I never thought that I would ever give out another 10. I'm glad I was wrong.

Many anime fans have probably heard of this film, but never actually went out and bought/rented it. I urge you to do so now, as it is a shining testament to Miyazaki's absolute genius. He has created an enchanting world of wonder that one can only wish to be a part of.

After Ashataki is cursed during a battle with a boar demon to save his village, he sets out in search of a cure that will lift the curse before it kills him. That in itself would probably have made a decent anime, but Miyazaki wasn't satisfied there. In fact, by the end, the curse is a minor plot detail. During his travels, Ashataki meets Mononoke/San, a girl who was raised by wolves and fights with the forest creatures against the resource-burning humans.

While most people groan about environmentalist messages, Princess Mononoke does not pander. The forest spirits and gods are no cute, innocent critters, and are just as angry and consumed by hate as the humans are. The subtle message contained within isn't simply "Lay off the trees." No, the true message here is simply too profound to do justice to with words. One has to see Miyazaki's vision for him or herself and become a part of his magic.

Aided with museum-worthy visuals, a beautiful soundtrack, and an inspiring script, Princess Mononoke stands triumphantly as a film which transcends movies and goes into the realm of pure art. See Princess Mononoke and learn the strength of the spirit, human or animal.

As much as I hate to break the mood, there is a minor detail to mention. While the movie is an unforgettable experience, it is also a bloody one. As animes go, there are certainly more violent titles out there, but as animated films go, there is plenty of dismemberment and quite a few decapitations. It's certainly too violent for the Pokemon crowd, and is questionable for tweens, despite it's PG-13 rating.

10/10

-- Eric 21st May 04

Princess Mononoke Images