Princess Mononoke

• 4 / 5 people like this movie usually . Out of all the people I have ever met that watched this movie , I can count the people who didn't like it on one hand . Its a great fantasy movie that depicts Japanese culture , great fight scenes , awesome storytelling , and a lot of nature . I know a lot of people are already thinking that a nature movie can't be that cool . . . well , this movie definitely proved even me wrong ! First of all I would like to mention that even though this movie is rated PG - 13 and depicts some scenes of violence , I wouldn't hesitate to show this to a younger kid . There are like 2 scenes I would question , but they aren't even that bad . This movie has so much beauty that a lot of people just look at the violence and immediately call it mature , when in reality its far from that . Take a look at a lot of supposed kid-aimed anime shows and you'll notice a lot more fan service and violence than this movie . I shake my head at those sad souls that say this should be an R movie . DVD : The DVD is average , but great at the same time just because it is Princess Mononoke . But looking at it unbiased , its just average . You have the basic Chapter Selection , Language Selection , Subtitles , and Extras as usual . But its far from complaining . EXTRAS : Not too much to keep someone going for a long time after the movie is over . There is a featurette that talks about the dub , and how the actors that dubbed it felt about the movie . Some other extras not really worth mentioning like trailers . But its a nice effort . AUDIO : Japanese and English audio tracks are included , but this is one of the rare cases when I would have to say the English out-does the Japanese by-far . The English dub was not your typical dub mind you . They recruited many famous actors like Gillian Anderson ( X-Files ) , and Billy Bob Thorton ( Switchblade ) that play the characters perfectly . They really went all-out on it and there is a lot more feeling behind the voices . Watch and compare . VIDEO : Very crisp and clean . I could eat off of my screen if it weren't so dusty . I didn't expect any less . OVERALL : This is DEFINITELY a must in any movie-lover's collection . . . be they anime-fan or not . I hesitated too long to get this movie and was glad when I did . This is one of those movies that you can watch over and over again and get really attached to the characters , its just that good . I can see them re-doing the DVD though in the near-future with more extras and such since this DVD didn't have a lot in that category . Look for Princess Mononoke Special Edition 2 - Disc DVD Set one day , but until then , do yourself a favor and get this version . You won't be let down .
• 018 4  I am NOT a fan of Japanese animation . Sure , the pictures look great , but can ANYONE truly explain such immortal works as AKIRA and GHOST IN THE SHELL ? These films seem to be extensions of comic books , and , while flashing beautiful animation , completely avoid the hassle of telling a story . That said , PRINCESS MONONOKE is NOT your typical Japanese animation . This film tells a simple fairy tale , in a not-so-simple manner . With excellent action , beautiful renderings , and a complexity of character that few American animations have ever approached , MONONOKE assaults the eyes and mind of the viewer . Even the English dubbings don't get in the way , although I do recommend watching both the English dubs AND the Japanese just to experience the differences . As much as I have wanted to love this genre , I have never found anything nearly so good as PRINCESS MONONOKE . It is a freakishly well-done exception to the norm , and is , in fact , one of my favorite films . Even if you hate the stuff , see this film .
• 063 4  If you are looking for Saturday morning cartoons , look somewhere else . If you want a babysitting-video for your 6 - yr old or anything childlike - move on . . . But , if you want a full blown cinematic anime MASTERPIECE that will engage your mind , spirit and body in a potentially life changing experience , then PRINCESS MONONOKE IS FOR YOU ! Yes , it is a bit long , time-wise . Yes , it is gory and violent . Yes , it does require your full attention to follow and understand . And yes , P . M . IS a true anime MASTERPIECE worthy of every sliver of effort needed to access its ' many levels of entertaining meaning . Please note : Every second of the film is needed and in the end , you will not want it to end ! The graphic violence is never gratuitous or Saturday-morning silly . And , the ' effort ' needed to enjoy PRINCESS MONONOKE ( Ma-no-NO ' - key ) is enjoyable effort , the kind of attention that a great book needs to fully appreciate ! NOT the effort needed to read Shakespeare or understand FREUD . Give it chance and Enjoy !
• 075 4  Hayao Miyazaki is such a great man for many reasons . One of them is , after making so many movies at Studio Ghibli , such greats as : * My Neighbor Totoro * Nausicaa of the valley of wind - - - ( his first with Ghibli , and at the same level , maybe higher , maybe lower , than Mononoke Hime . ) * Pom Poko * Grave of the fireflies * Laputa : Castle in the Sky He STILL can make an epic like Princess Mononoke . What a fantastic man ! Princess Mononoke is indescribable in words , so I won't bore you by details . Just watch the movie , the animation , plot , music by faithful Joe Hisaishi , and overall feel will suredly blow you away , whether your an anime fanatic or not . But I would fell discontented to even call this an anime , among so much crap . It's a freakin ' subcategory ! MIYAZAKI ! The man even gets praise by fellow legends as Akira Kurosawa and Katsuhiro Otomo ( may God rest his soul ) . Another reason Miyazaki is so great is that , well . . . he is so darned hard-working , creative , and brilliant ! I really despise computer animation , hand-drawn animation is the most creative , fluid , and inspiring in my mind . This movie is very exciting , and fun to watch . About the DVD , I recommend Japenese language with english sub-titles . I personally dislike the english version , though I do like Billy Bob Thorton's performance . DVD SPECIAL FEATURES INCLUDE : * Featurette * Theatrical Trailer * French language track * Japenese language track Well , all I can finish with is the fact that an epic was made , and many are sure to come by the great Hayao Miyazaki . Stay tuned for Spirited Away . . . . - Jeffro
• 081 4  alot has been said and heard about the master film maker hayao miyazaki's astonishing masterpiece princess mononoke . no words are enough to describe the sheer beauty and grandeur of the film . we all know that . miramax definitely deserves a pat for bringing it to the english world . only thing that sulks me is the absence of any great extras on this dvd release . it is a real irony that an exceptional film like this has been given such a shoddy treatment . i purchased it long ago when it was released by miramax , thinking someday there will be a special edition release . since then many years lapsed but there's absolutely no sign of any such release . something i would like to add here is that buena vista japan has released a very special 3disc deluxe edition dvd there , in japan , which alongwith , the main feature , contains the whole storyboard of the film in multi angle viewing option and a very special long documentary on the making of the film ( sigh ! ! ! ) . and that's just not all . . . there has even been a separate dvd release called how mononoke hime was born ! ! great stuff , i'm sure ! WITH THIS REVIEW OF MINE AND ON BEHALF OF MILLIONS OF FANS LIKE ME AROUND THE GLOBE , I REQUEST BUENA VISTA , U.S . AND DISNEY TO KINDLY RELEASE THIS DELUXE EDITION ON REGION1 . I ALSO REQUEST AMAZON TO KINDLY START A SURVEY AND LET THE STUDIO KNOW HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE WAITING FOR ITS RELEASE AND DYING TO OWN IT . PLEASE EVERYONE , VOTE FOR IT . I'M SURE IT WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE AS IT DID BEFORE THE RELEASE OF PRESENTLY AVAILABLE EDITION , WHEN DISNEY WAS FORCED TO ADD THE ORIGINAL JAPANESE TRACK ON THE DISC AFTER PEOPLE HAD RAISED THEIR VOICES . DISNEY , WE WANT THIS ONE .
• 119 4  Okay , yeah it's kind of early in the year for me to say that . . . but trust me , nothing America can create will ever compare to Miyazaki . And you just HAVE to get the DVD simply because of the dual-language feature . . . the English version ( which I saw in the theater ) is great , and the Japanese version ( which I own ) is also great , I could never choose one over the other . I love anime , but I usually hate dubs - - not this one ! The translation is SO good , very little meaning is lost and the lipsync even matches ! As for the story . . . well others have already covered it but I can say once again that it is DEEPLY moving , this is a story about a young girl who is fighting for the life of the forest and the old gods , but it manages to avoid being feminist or environmentalist - - both sides of the conflict are represented , there are no good guys or bad guys just a lot of believeable characters with conflicting views . Also , the animation is BEAUTIFUL , and ( this is essentil ) while computers were used , the actual characters themselves are HAND PAINTED cels ( I've seen the cels in person , don't try to tell me they're not ! ) , many of which were drawn by Miyazaki himself ! A modern masterpiece in a classic style . . . a must-have for just about anyone !
• 120 4  Growing up I knew there were two types of Animation , one was the bland american servings of Disney and Warner Brothers . . . and the other side of the coin which was Japanese Anime . Anime was not huckleberry hound or mickey mouse or something lame like that . Anime was action filled and it had a storyline that keeps you glued to the screen . This was animation for the thinking person , anime brings to life what may sometimes be difficult to play live action . Also , this reads like a powerful comic book . Back to Princess Mononoke , I am thoroughly impressed by this production . The Mythicism and Magic that this film invokes is priceless . I was at awe watching these beasts . . . I was enthralled as to what will happen next . And the whole rollercoaster ride is what it really is . . . a powerpacked punch that is riddled with Imagination . All I am saying is that this film is great . YOU DEFINITELY HAVE TO SEE IT !
• 131 4  I bought this movie the other day after reading conflicting reviews , and I'm really pleased with my purchase . One word of advice though . . . WATCH IT WITH THE JAPANESE LANGUAGE TRACK AND SUBTITLES ! It's 4 or 5 stars with Japanese and about 2 stars in english . . . Billy Bob Thornton is horrible . This is difinitiely one of the better anime films I've seen and the animation is beautiful . . .
• 140 4  INTRO : 4 / 5 people like this movie usually . Out of all the people I have ever met that watched this movie , I can count the people who didn't like it on one hand . Its a great fantasy movie that depicts Japanese culture , great fight scenes , awesome storytelling , and a lot of nature . I know a lot of people are already thinking that a nature movie can't be that cool . . . well , this movie definitely proved even me wrong ! First of all I would like to mention that even though this movie is rated PG - 13 and depicts some scenes of violence , I wouldn't hesitate to show this to a younger kid . There are like 2 scenes I would question , but they aren't even that bad . This movie has so much beauty that a lot of people just look at the violence and immediately call it mature , when in reality its far from that . Take a look at a lot of supposed kid-aimed anime shows and you'll notice a lot more fan service and violence than this movie . I shake my head at those sad souls that say this should be an R movie . DVD : The DVD is average , but great at the same time just because it is Princess Mononoke . But looking at it unbiased , its just average . You have the basic Chapter Selection , Language Selection , Subtitles , and Extras as usual . But its far from complaining . EXTRAS : Not too much to keep someone going for a long time after the movie is over . There is a featurette that talks about the dub , and how the actors that dubbed it felt about the movie . Some other extras not really worth mentioning like trailers . But its a nice effort . AUDIO : Japanese and English audio tracks are included , but this is one of the rare cases when I would have to say the English out-does the Japanese by-far . The English dub was not your typical dub mind you . They recruited many famous actors like Gillian Anderson ( X-Files ) , and Billy Bob Thorton ( Switchblade ) that play the characters perfectly . They really went all-out on it and there is a lot more feeling behind the voices . Watch and compare . VIDEO : Very crisp and clean . I could eat off of my screen if it weren't so dusty . I didn't expect any less . OVERALL : This is DEFINITELY a must in any movie-lover's collection . . . be they anime-fan or not . I hesitated too long to get this movie and was glad when I did . This is one of those movies that you can watch over and over again and get really attached to the characters , its just that good . I can see them re-doing the DVD though in the near-future with more extras and such since this DVD didn't have a lot in that category . Look for Princess Mononoke Special Edition 2 - Disc DVD Set one day , but until then , do yourself a favor and get this version . You won't be let down .


• 015 4  Well , February has seen the first announcements that Princess Mononoke will get a DVD release , and it is apparently more than a rumor , but I'm not holding my breath . As to the movie itself , I must admit I purchased a DVD player just in anticipation of this film ( I figured if Castle of Cagliostro was getting a DVD release , so would Mononoke ) . So as to the movie itself , no amount of praise would really be adequit . Somewhere in the back of my brain is some idea I formed as a child as to exactly what a powerful and moving film should be - - but it is an idea that came to be discarded because let's face it , Star Wars or Disney after puberty doesn't live up to the magic it had at 5 years old . Surprise , surprise , at age 27 I've seen something that reminded me of what it was like to be 5 years old again . Miyazaki has been able to do this consistantly not just because he is a master storyteller ( something so many american films could desperately use ) but because his films immerse you in a world that in a very short time you fail to notice is a cartoon . As advanced as Disney animation is , all it's marvels seem bent on impressing , not on immersion , such that while impressed we cannot help but remember ( sometimes painfully ) that we are watching a cartoon . Mononoke on the other hand will win the audience over with the still beauty of its settings long before they've even grasped the fantastic story line . I must also mention that Mononoke has a simply amazing soundtrack that is free of upbeat musical numbers or pop songs . With what to my ears sound like a few bows to Rimsky-Korsakov , Hisashi's score to this film is as delicious as the film itself , standing well on its own merit , but in conjunction with the film it is utterly unparalleled . Very rarely does it seem that a film solidly hits on every count , and even when it does happen , the force of the film in it's totality is often not so great . Mononoke however is not just a solid film but a very strong film as well . If there is a weak point here it is the english dub , and yet I for one found the dub very enjoyable and convincing . . . yet in a film where everything is perfect , this will no doubt be the point which will earn the most criticism . Anyway , I've said enough . If you havn't seen this , you must . Worth buying a DVD player for this movie alone if they'll just get around to releasing it .
• 006 4  This is not like any Japanese animated movie or any other animated film . It is not a lost adventure like Pokemon , neither is it a classic cutesy by Disney or Dreamworks . This is a film that quickly caught my eyes and ears because of its rare beauty and incredibly poignant feelings ( I love anything that is poignant and this film is no exception ) . I was quickly captured by the story of a young warrior cursed by a demon god . The demon itself was cursed by anger and hatred it held towards the destructive humans . The animal gods and the humans fought many wars against each other , but their hatred only brought destruction to themselves . There also was the forest spirit who brought both life and death , and could give life to some , but death to others . The whole story I found to be gripping and thrilling . The curse , that evil hating curse that could eat people and animals alive . The conflict between man and beast that did not have to happen . The wolf girl , San , also known as Princess Mononoke , who was neither wolf or human . And the mysterious forest god of life and death , pain and relief . One thing that distinguishes this move from others is that no one is a good guy or a bad guy . Just about every person has good and evil in them , but hate and anger can infest and destroy anyone . I have never known of a more captivating movie . The animation was beautiful and not over done , but very simple and artistic . The gore and violence is hard to stomache , but it brings more poignant feelings to the viewer . The music is also very beautiful and ethereal ( some might say it sounds very Enya-like ) . There is absolutely no reason why you should not see this movie . If you think , oh , it's just an ordinary Japanese movie , or Oh , it's not as great as it sounds , you're wrong ! This is one of the greatest films I have ever seen . If you do not see this movie , you are missing out on a lot .
• 024 4  WOW . This is a terrifically mind-blowing film , even if you're not a fan of anime . The characters are well-developed , the plot is complex , and the animation is gorgeous . The only possible complaint is : where is the original Japanese version ? Usually I prefer my anime ( all foreign films , for that matter ) with subtitles , but , try as I may , I haven't succeeded in finding a subtitled-in-English version of Princess Mononoke . But , really , the dubbing is actually rather good . Some casting choices were a little off , such as Claire Danes as the voice of San ( please ! Who thought of THAT one ? ) , but otherwise , it's just fine . I'd highly recommend this movie for any fan of Miyazaki Hayao ( the director ) or anime in general . Even if you aren't normally an anime fan , try it anyway . Mononoke does a great job in dispelling the Western myth that animated movies are just for little kids .
• 047 4  I first heard about Princess Mononoke in the magazine SPIN . They gave it an excellent review and I've been dying to watch it . Finally , at my local Hollywood Video , I saw a copy of it and rented it . I was stunned and amazed on how this movie came together ! Excellent plot and beautifuly done animation ! Now , after seeing this , I been dying to know where I can buy a copy of my own . The plot is easy to understand : A young prince from a village is inflected with a deadly curse that will cause his body and spirit to turn evil . To do away with the curse , he sets off to find the Great Forest Spirit , the only one who can cure him . He arrives in Iron Town and meets up with Lady Eboshi ( voiced by Minnie Driver ) who plans on taking over the forest where the gentle spirit lives . Lady Eboshi also plans to do away with Princess Mononoke ( voiced by Claire Danes ) , a young girl raised by the wolves of the forest . A classic battle between man and nature will see the outlook on who will rule the land , viewers will love the dialoge spoken by well-known American actors such as Minnie Driver , Claire Danes , Gillian Anderson , Billy-Bob Thortan , and more . What else can I say , this is one movie you won't be disapointed in .
• 049 4  It was the most wonderful movie I could ever hope for ! My friend recommended it to me , and I was very reluctant to see it . I'm not a big fan of anime . I always thought the animation was choppy and storylines bland . This completely changed my mind . Princess Mononoke is the best movie I have ever seen , anime or not ! ( I've seen almost every movie from Terminator to Sense and Sensiblity ) I loved how Miyazaki never created a bad guy . The most obvious one has good motives , and by the end of the movie , you're left wondering if this was a movie or a play of real-life relationships . It didn't have the classic good vs.evil plot we've all seen with every movie . It displays real friendships and issues . Fantasy fan or hard-core realist , you'll love this movie !
• 069 4  I think it has been pretty well established that this is a fantastic movie , so I'll skip the gushing and try to tell you what makes this movie great , as opposed to merely entertaining . First of all , the entire film is genuinely startling in it's originality , and not something you would ever see in an American-made film . Also , it's good to know that although this movie does have a fair amount of violence in it , unlike most anime films it isn't all that graphic , ( except in one scene at about the twenty minute mark ) and the violence only serves to further the story , and not vice versa . It's also interesting to note that this is a somewhat feminist story . If you've watched anime before , you probably know how poorly the female characters are treated . This one perhaps consciously avoids that , and actually makes the two major women in the movie figures of authority . This is not to say that it seems to be going out of it's way ; it's just interesting in retrospect . Oh , and if you're worried about buying an English of the original Japanese film , don't worry at all . Not only do the mouth movements of the character match the dialogue , but the dialogue actually feels very fluid , in sharp contrast to most anime translations . And the voice acting is excellent , especially by Billy Crudup and Minnie Driver . All things considered , I can't imagine why anyone who likes animation not loving this movie . It is easily among the best animated films ever made .
• 072 4  This anime is an epic . Both in story and proportions . Simply put , it is the most complex , deeply involving , and entertaining movie to hit the big screen in a long long time . It is true that there are intense violent scenes and slight gorefests in this movie , but they are relatively brief and not over emphasized . I do not however recommend eating while watching the last half of the movie : ) The movie's beautiful scenery and lighting effect really draw you into the story . You forget for a few moments that this is an anime ! I myself am a conservative , so I understand how some people get upset over the environmental theme , but the message is not really screaming at you . It is played out in a well thought out , complex storyline that portrays nearly every character as both good and evil . They are not simply bad or good , but both at the same time . A very well thought out story indeed . I still warn you that there is indeed a very graphic scene with the pig god as he is consumed by demons , and this film is not for the faint of heart or weak of stomach . If you can handle predator or alien though , you can handle this . I highly recommend anyone to at least give this movie a try . Try to see past the violence and environmental issues , and focus on the highly entertaining story within . You wont be disappointed .
• 073 4  An enchanting tale of demons , gods , humans , and the ultimate power of nature over all of them . I loved the music and the action . Lots of good fight scenes to be found here . If you are a nature-loving anime fan then this is definately the movie for you . I think the boar demon is a metaphor for the anger of spirits used to make hotdog meat . Maybe that's just me . . .
• 092 4  This is a truly great movie ! I first saw it when my Aunt and I went to Blockbuster . We saw it sitting on the shelf and thought it looked pretty good . We were wrong . It wasn't just pretty good it was awesome ! . . . I mentioned it to one of my friends and found out that he loved the movie , too ! I had to buy it and finally found it . I just don't understand why it is why it is a little more money here on Amazon.com . I got it for the price of a regular DVD . In fact , the store had 3 more copies all for the same price ! Enough about price , though , let's talk about the movie . The movie has spectacular animation and a great plot . A prince is poisoned by a demon and is banished from his little town . He journeys and finds a town that produces iron and guns . A goddess / princess chick and these 3 cool talking wolves are trying to kill the ruler lady of the town because they destroyed the forest . In the end , I'm still not sure who really won : nature or the destructive humans . It's funny that Billy Bob Thornton was one of the characters ( voice ) . This movie is great , a treasured part of any DVD collection . I reccomend it to anyone . The only people I know that didn't like it are my grandparents who are more into classic movies and those sort of older films . You won't regret seeing this movie ! It's killer ! Enjoy !
• 104 4  I saw this film ( dubbed ) in theatres here , and think it's fine that dubbed version of this great animation film was released so quickly on dvd ; after all , it is the version that was seen in theatres in the US . It will be available for those that saw and loved it in theatres . I think it will do well ! True anime collectors have always known to wait for the real version , with original Japanese dialogue with / without subtitles . I know I'm waiting ! I am one to appreciate art in its truest form . And yes , I did cancel my initial Amazon order once I found out it was dubbed . It will come out soon enough .
• 109 4  I'm not an afficianado of Japanese animation , but Princess Mononoke caught my attention and my imagination despite that . Beautiful animation and a skillful English adaptation by Neil Gaiman bring alive a captivating tale of epic proportions . Though some of the voices for the English version were ill-inspired , actresses Minnie Driver and Gillian Anderson particularly bring their characters to life . All in all , the film is stunning and breathtaking .
• 110 4  This is an amazing anime feature reminding me a little of Crouching Tiger , Hidden Dragon ( Except that was Chinese Folklore ) . It has simplistic yet very professional and detailed animation by Hayao Miyazaki . Featuring a beautiful instrumental score rendered by the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra . This movie is set in isolationist Japan , and is filled with eastern / Japanese cultural elements for us westerners to attempt to understand . Along with a decent fantasy helping of personified animals and Gods . Be careful watching it if you can constitute a western audience member . This isn't a tree hugger movie like Fern Gully ( me shudders ) . If you think this movie has contemporary western political motives then you are thinking too hard ! I had to stop myself and just enjoy it . The story really has no antagonist because both sides in the story are equally guilty of one emotion ( try and find the best line in the movie that sums up what I just said ) . . . plus it smacks of Eastern values and mythology . And that's all I'm going to say about the story . If a devout conservative can love this movie . . . anyone can . Leave the soap box at home . Incidentally the english dub features the voices of American Hollywood stars such as Gillian Anderson ( The X-Files ) and Billy Bob Thorton ( Armageddon , Pushing Tin , etc . . . ) . . . But don't tell the real Anime buffs that I watched it dubbed . . . lol . . . I know only real anime fans watch subbed anime .
• 116 4  Princess Mononoke is a must have for any anime fan . I went and saw this movie in the theater not even knowing what it was about , but this film really surprised me . It is one of the best anime films of all time . Princess Mononoke is about a prince who must leave his village because he becomes cursed by a god . After he leaves , he meets many people in friendly villages , but one particular person catches his eye , a wild woman who lives with the wolves , the one that they call Princess Mononoke . If you are an anime fan , you should definately check this movie out . The voice acting is incredible , with an all-star cast including Gillian Anderson , Billy Crudup , Claire Danes , and Minnie Driver . Princess Mononoke does have a lot of violence and blood in it , so I would not reccommend it for young viewers . Also , the animation in Princess Mononoke is spectacular ! It will amaze you how wonderfully drawn it is .
• 133 4  The visual effects were awesome and breathtaking . This movie wasn't your average run of the mill character undeveloped movie . The movie has a lot of symbolism and has a deep message that pertains to all . The action was amazing . If you are a fan of Japanimation this movie is absolutely right for you .
• 136 4  If you like a movie with action , adventure and a great plot you will love Princess Mononoke.Its about a Prince who is infected by a demon . The wise women says the infection will spread and he will die unless he makes it to the forest of the gods were the forest spirit will heal him.He leaves and finaly makes it to irontown a city that is trying kill the forest and the gods . The prince falls in love with the daughter of the wolf gods , And is caught in there war and almost killed.If you liked the Lord of the Rings and the Two Towers you will love this movie
• 137 4  I happenned to come by this movie while flipping through the channels on my sattellite . I saw this and thought O.k , its anime , and its about some princess and a ' poisioned prince ' . After about 5 minutes , I was absorbed . I don't even and earthquake would have moved me from that T.V . set . After it was over , I searched the channels for it again , but found out it was only coming on tommorrow . Now I'm getting it for Christmas ! This is the best gift ever ! ! !
• 145 4  This movie is sooo gorgeous , the animals are absolutely life like and the story is brilliant.The voice acting is great and the animation is some of the finest you'll ever see , best of all to me are the wolves , they steal the movie and are my personal favorites ( ;
• 149 4  when i first saw all the previews for this i thought it was one of those freaky artsy anime movies . well i was really wrong ! . i saw it on tv not too long ago and got hooked right away ! i loved the story , characters and music ! Better than crouching tiger hidden dragon ! the american dubbed version features an all star cast including Claire Danes , Billy Bob Thorton , Gillian Anderson and Minnie Driver . Although many adults would look at this and say , its a cartoon so its a kid movie but they are very wrong . infact , this movie contains mature violence and adult language . this movie is aimed toward teenagers and older . well , to sum it up , this movie has a great plot , great cast , and wonderful music . You dont have to be an anime fan to enjoy this !
• 150 4  Princess Mononoke is the most astounding animated motion picture I have ever seen ! The frame rate is obviosly better than your common anime , and the attention to detail that Miyazaki took is absolutly breathtaking ! Sure , it's a little bloody at times , but remember it's just red ink.If your an anime fan or just want to see a good film , don't hesitate to buy this Japanese masterpiece !
• 152 4  It's difficult to most people when watching a movie to make an effort and to try to see the background of it . First , Hayao Miyazaki is a Japanese director , with japanese background . Some things that are strange for us , like worshipping a pig ( Sorry , don't remember the animal's name in English . . . But them all the human kind once in past we worshipped strange things ) are part of mithology and stories of Japan . So before you watch a foreign movie , please try to keep in mind that sometimes you feel sick because you can not understand at the time what all that things mean . And this don't mean you're an idiot .
• 153 4  I'll keep this brief and just give my impressions because others have already expounded on the important elements of the film . I rented this ( and will soon be buying it ) movie on a friend's recomendation . He knew I wan't really into anime but convinced me that that I would soon forget it was an animated film . He was exactly right ! My wife and I sat down and within ten minutes we looked at each other and both commented on how we were completely intrigued , the movie had us . I'm happy to say it only got better from there . Deep , rich story , complex characters and beautiful scenery make this one to remember and one to definitely own . You'll love it if you like great movies , even if you're not ' into ' animation .


• 023 4  One of the darkest and most intense Studio Ghibli masterpieces , Princess Mononoke is every bit as vast and grand as Lord Of The Rings and Star Wars and rivals fellow Ghibli fare like Castle In the Sky and Spirited Away in memorabilty and array of character ( both human and nonhuman ) , creature and concept . The film's character cast is headed by Mononoke , a wolf-raised girl involved in the resistance of animals and nature against the ever-encroaching and ever-dominating human civilization , and Ashitaka , afflicted with a life-draining malady and on a quest deep into the remaining forest to find the elusive cure . Being a Miyazaki-directed feature , Princess Mononoke still manages to easily blend in large amounts of beauty , cuteness and charm into the darkly serious and often violent story of conflict . The struggle between relentless human industrialization & expansion and the vanishing natural world is a common theme in many Ghibli movies , but seldom presented in such a warlike and apocalyptic fashion . Interestingly , it does this without demonizing the encroaching human factions . As in our world , in this admittedly less technologically advanced world , the enivirornmental decimation isn't always caused by a burning malicious desire to eradicate our planetmates , but out of - what ? Arrogance ? Honest ignorance ? Unconscious apathy ? A defeatist attitude that it's all going to be plowed over anyway so why bother trying to delay the inevitable ? Unfortunately , it's the other 99.999% of species that have to suffer the bulk of the consequences . In Princess Mononoke , the 99.999% are in the early stages of not taking things lying down anymore , and are being aided by some very powerful entities , and the result is one of cinema's greatest epics , aided by impeccable animation and great voice acting flawlessly synchronized into the movie . Complete in itself but still feels unfinished - Princess Mononoke is one of the great originals of all time , and now all we can do is treasure it while we wait and hope for a Princess Mononoke II to come and be one of the great sequels of all time .
• 019 4  Princess Mononoke ( Mononoke Hime ) works on so many levels because 1 ) Its creator , Hayao Miyazaki , spent a life's worth of effort on the script and on every cell of animation ( take that disney ) . It may be some of the most beautiful animation ever created . 2 ) This movie avoids the boring , usual good vs . bad with occasional sidekick formula ( take that again disney ) . The characters and story are very well developed , and there is no CLEAR cut badguy . 3 ) Joe Hisaishi did the music . 4 ) It's a Miyazaki film . ' Nuff said ! For those of you unfamiliar with Hayao Miyazaki , I suggest you check out Laputa : Castle in the Sky , Nausicaa , Castle of Cagliostro , or My Neighbor Totoro . Get a taste of the greatest director / writer that ever lived ! * The english dub of Mononoke is okay , but please see it in its original form ( Japenese w / eng subtitles ) .
• 021 4  I saw the film in raw , un-subbed Japanese from a copy a friend of mine bought in Japan , where it was already on video . I must say that this is one of the absolute BEST anime that I have ever seen ! Truly , five stars just isn't enough to give this masterpiece of Miyazaki's . Truly , he deserves the title , the ' Walt Disney ' of Japanese animation . On a personal note , however , I think Disney did him and his film a great disservice releasing the English version of the feature only in select theatres . Once again , it is a prime example of how animation in this country is never given enough credit . Even though I had to read along with the Japanese dialogue by English translated scripts off of the Internet , I thoroughly and absolutely enjoyed this movie . The visuals and story alone ought to be enough to engross you in its spell , and its non-preachy , semi-environmentalist message should be a delight for those with like minds . Truly , this movie has something for everyone . Another keen difference , however , is the fact that this differs from Miyazaki's others for the maturity of the theme , and the amount of violence it contains , so I strongly suggest that parents be cautioned before getting the notion of buying this movie for their kids . Remember that this is Japanese , not American animation , and that its PG - 13 rating isn't for nothing . But all in all , this is one piece of anime the average Otaku ( if there is such a thing ^ _ ^ ) absolutely CANNOT be without . This is one movie that is destined to go down in anime history with such classics as Akira , and Ghost in the Shell . I , for one , can't wait until it comes out on video , and am buying both DVD and VHS versions . I give it my highest recommendation ! Get it !
• 041 4  When I first viewed this movie , it was an Internet fansub , burned onto a simple 650 MB CD-R . Even though the quality of the format was terrible , the absolutely stunning animation shone through . The script was translated by fans and some words had lost their meanings , as did some passages . But the moving story and heavy meaning still shone through . My point is that even in it's lowest-quality form , this movie is on par , if not better than , movies like Akira or Ghost in the Shell . As a professional production , this anime transferred to DVD with a Dolby 5.1 soundtrack is going to be the pinnacle of animated film . Any anime fan would do well to pick this one up . If you are and you don't at least watch Princess Mononoke , you'll probably come to feel that you're missing out through the reviews of people like myself . As for those who gave this movie less than 3 stars due to over-complicated plot or gratuitous violence , they know not what they speak of . This movie is simply a work of art , and deserves to be viewed by those who can appreciate fine things in all forms . Order now ! I am !
• 105 4  I've seen the japanese version of this anime , and it is amazing indeed . A must-have for all moving pictures fans ! Cannot beleive that the release date is January 1st 2001 though - is this a typo ? And the rumors about the DVD NOT having a sub version better be false or else Disney have shot themselves in the foot . This release deserves to be liked in dub , and enjoyed in full - in sub ! Where are the other great titles from Studio Ghibili on DVD ? My wallet is itching . . . ; )


• 038 4  It's been years since I watched an anime film . I was reading a current issue of Video Watchdog when I came across a review for this film / dvd by Stephen Bissette . I have always respected his choice of films and writing , so I decided to read on . For those of you who don't know Disney owns the rights to this film . They gave it a sorry theatrical release and in my and Bissette's opinion a poor release on DVD as well . Consider this , I bought Oliver Stone's Platoon and Salvador on DVD ( New ) for $15.00 ea . Both discs came with audio commentaries , a great deal of bonus features , and superb transfers . Now why is it that Princess Mononoke costs more for less ? Disney bought the rights to this film ( which was huge overseas ) and practically buried it here because it puts their own releases to shame . Anyone see Fantasia 2000 ? PU . So after reading Bissette's article I rented the disc . I have not been this impressed by an animated feature since Watership Down ( which has yet to be released on DVD ) . Something I found interesting which Bissette did not mention was the English dubbing versus the literal translated subtitles . I was disgusted to see how such a beautiful language was interpreted . Try it yourself , it's amazing how much the dubbing has been dumbed down and Americanized . Soon after this experiment I watched the film in Japanese with the subs on . Incidently , Bissette points out that there is no mention on the DVD jacket of a Japanese track . The fact that one exists at all was most likely a last minute effort put into effect after fans complained on various chat boards that the film was going to be released in English only . The jacket was already printed so they just slapped a sticker on the cover to note the various languages . See , it does good to voice an opinion . All said and done the disc looks and sounds very good . I just think it's a crime when a film as beautiful as this is treated so poorly . Disney should hang their heads in shame . They have never produced anything this good .
• 007 4  For those that recommend experiencing this outstanding film in it's original Japanese language edition : DVD technical details : Available Audio Tracks : Japanese ( Original ) ( Dolby Digital 5.1 ) , English ( Dolby Digital 5.1 ) , Please keep in mind that NONE of the previous reviewers of the DVD edition have actually SEEN the DVD edition , but yet some have chosen to assign a low rating based on rumors they have heard on the internet . Experience this film in any form and it remains a truly amazing work of art . So falls Klamath Falls .
• 027 4  Ok , the number one issue that started to get this DVD bad reviews was that there would be no format on the Princess Mononoke disk that would allow the viewer to see the film in its original Japanese form complete with Japanese audio . Well , guess what , it actually does . I wish people would wait to get the FULL details about the special features of a DVD before they bad mouth it all over the internet ! It even comes with English subtitles for those who want to hear it in Japanese but still want to read along ( an example of that would be me ) . Next , is there too much violence in the movie or is it too weak ? The only true violent scenes are at the beginning of the movie or close to the end . While there are much more gruesome movies , why would anyone want more ? Is that how sick society has become . Frankly , I think there is just enough amount of violence to make this movie truely interesting ( although , I wouldn't show this to young children , just to protect their own innocence ) . What is this nonsense about Princess Mononoke being called a chick flick ? Yeah , sure , you can go see it with your girlfriend , but I wouldn't call it a chick flick . I first saw it with a lot of my friends and we all loved it ( for your own information , I am a guy ) ! This movie is full of action , which I would think any guy would like . The animation is amazing . The plot is well thought out . Plus , it's a little educational . I learned a little about acient Japanese beliefs . I'll admit , the English dubbing could have been better , but then , you always have the original track on the DVD . So I bid the reader of this review Enjoy ! This is a great movie !
• 128 4  Wow , so there seems to be a lot of controversy on this film . Yes I definitely agree with the fact that it is not for young children . So for the rest of us who can watch it . . just watch it and move on . I have never been into animee ( sp ? ) movies , but I really like this one . Okay so I really dug the little forrest spirits . Too cute . Back to my point though , people try to read too much into movie meanings and messages . GET OVER IT ! Just enjoy the story and worry about more important things in this world . These reviews where people are going into their crazy beliefs and crap are hillarious . Movies are for entertainment purposes only kiddies .


• 082 4  I'm glad the first real anime film I ever watched was Princess Mononoke . I never , or almost never , watch anything animated anymore , so stumbling over this brilliant piece of art was fortuitous to say the least . I'm not usually one to buy into hype , but the blazing blurbs on the DVD cover , trumpeting this movie as the most wonderful piece of anime ever made , did convince me to rent it for an evening . So did the gazillions of praiseworthy comments I subsequently found after viewing the film . The fact that several big shot Hollywood actors-including Billy Bob Thornton , Jada Pinkett-Smith , Gillian Anderson , Minnie Driver , and Claire Danes-provided the voices of the characters almost scared me away from this picture . I figured that the only reason these actors signed on to the project revolved around the idea that the central theme of the movie concerned industrialization versus nature . Well , it probably was the driving force for these actors , but you can look beyond all that and just enjoy the film anyway . And trust me , you'll love Princess Mononoke . Set in medieval Japan , the movie is complex , beautiful , and inspiring . Young Prince Ashitaka runs into a big problem when he suffers a serious injury after battling a frighteningly evil creature outside his small village . The wound , a bite mark on his arm , is incurable according to the village doctor . Ashitaka will eventually morph into a demon unless he can somehow find the elusive Princess Mononoke , a human raised in the wild , who may know how to cure this dreaded disease . Leaving the village is difficult for the young prince because local tradition dictates that he may never return . On his trip into the wilds of nature , Ashitaka runs into a mysterious monk named Jigo , stumbles into a war zone , and discovers a fabulous metal works factory run by the beautiful Lady Eboshi . It turns out that this factory , staffed largely by women , produces guns and ammunition for the samurai armies . Eboshi doesn't limit herself to only dealing with one customer , however , as she is a dedicated capitalist willing to sell armaments to anyone with money . When Ashitaka finally meets Mononoke he discovers that the denizens of the forest are attempting to fight back against Eboshi's machinations . Obviously , Ashitaka must decide which side to take in the battle for the earth . He is torn between giving into his love for Mononoke or battling the humans . Princess Mononoke is much more than a simple action tale , although there are plenty of intense combat sequences . Love plays a big part in the story , between Ashitaka and Mononoke as well as a love for the purity of nature . Malice rears its ugly head , too . Not only is Eboshi filled with odium , but so is Mononoke as she battles the humans destroying the wilderness . It's to the film's credit that it never takes a black or white view of either humans or animals . Each side has an ugly aspect that often emerges in startling ways . The movie eventually seems to say that humans need to forget about dominating nature and instead find their own niche within it . Still , there can be little doubt about where the filmmakers ' sympathies lie . All of the greatest scenes in the movie involve Ashitaka's interactions with nature and the animals . The animators pulled out all the stops in presenting a truly magical world . Pay special attention to the wondrous nature god's awe-inspiring transformations and the little forest apparitions that appear to guide Ashitaka through the forest . These scenes constitute the finest animation I have ever seen , animation that should rightfully carry the tag art more often than not . The only problem I had with the film concerned some of the voiceovers . I thought Billy Crudup did a fine job as the heroic Ashitaka . Unfortunately , the same cannot be said for Claire Danes's work as Mononoke . I continually felt this actress had no conception of her character or how to convincingly vocalize her attributes . I began to develop a distinct sense of dread every time Mononoke opened her mouth . As for the other American actors , they did an acceptable job . Thornton did better than I thought he would as the voice of the wily Jigo , considering this actor's southern accent , but then again the monk doesn't appear too often in the movie . Only after I watched the movie and returned it did I think about viewing it in Japanese with subtitles . I suspect that would have been a better way to see this film . These criticisms in no way require me to give Princess Mononoke less than five stars . The DVD edition of the film does contain a few extras , including some interviews with the American actors voicing some of the characters , a trailer , and a widescreen presentation . I didn't think animation would use widescreen , but what do I know ? Princess Mononoke doubtless appeals to fans of the anime genre , but it should have an equal effect on non-fans . I know I couldn't believe some of the stuff I was seeing in this movie-yes , it's that powerfully beautiful . I wouldn't just watch this one again ; I'm thinking about buying myself a copy . That's how much I liked the darn thing . Maybe I ought to start watching more anime in the near future .
• 001 4  Wow . I first saw Princess Mononoke during its limited theatrical release ( twice ) . Many people have issues with the dub , but this is by far the best dubbed anime ever to be released - - I , like most anime fans , normally insist on subtitles , but Neil Gaiman and the cast succeeded in putting real emotion into these characters . The casting of Billy Bob Thornton and Claire Danes might rub some ears the wrong way , but in my opinion the emotional impact is still there regardless of the odd accents . In any case , the Japanese track is included , and it's phenomenal . As for its content , most arguments about its violence and length can be dismissed by viewing it as a film , rather than as a cartoon . It's not Disney . The plot is a complex and delicate exercise in shades of gray . Don't expect Akira or Macross either - - it's really not of the same genre . The video and audio quality is the sort that you would use to show off your new home theater system . In fact , I found the Japanese soundtrack to be richer and better dynamically balanced than the English track ( ! ) . Disney / Miramax really took advantage of the format by including BOTH the Japanese and English opening titles and credits - - they are automatically selected depending on your choice of language via an angle switch . Transparent and ingenious . There are two sets of subtitles - - one for the English track , and the other is the literal translation of the Japanese ( since some liberties were taken in creating the English script ) . Disney was originally going to release Mononoke Hime without the original language track , which created an outrage among anime fans ( who , myself included , signed a massive internet petition which eventually turned the tide ) . I applaud this decision , as well as the splendid attention to detail . It has made this incredible movie an even better value .
• 008 4  Master filmmaker Miyazaki has created one of the most beautiful animated movies I've ever seen . Frankly , I'm beyond impressed . Anime seems to have a much more realistic feel and the themes are very adult in nature . With intellectual themes , magical creatures and mature relationship issues , this is one captivating movie . Even though the film doesn't make judgments about good or evil , it does make a statement that pervades the entire story . The message is ecological in nature and asks many questions about the role of humans and animals on the planet . The characters have to deal with loyalty , fate and death . The characters are really not trying to save the planet , they are dealing more with survival issues . Princess Mononoke was raised by wolves on a mountain . She wears a fur type coat with ears attached . Very cute . The mountain is ruled by the forest spirit who never speaks , but has the power to give or take life . The tiny forest spirits that rattle their heads are adorable . They are like little ghosts . The forest spirit changes shape at night and when he walks through the forest as a deer god , flowers grow around his hooves . The forest is so beautiful it is not difficult to see why the animals want to preserve the pristine location . The animals all talk and are larger than most animals . In fact , they are actually gods defending their mountains . There is quite a bit of violence so this is not really an animated movie for children . They might be a bit frightened by the boar crawling with demon worms or the huge explosion that kills the boars . Ashitaka takes up the role of warrior and kills a demon-boar monster threatening his village . In killing this angry beast , he is cursed and retains a marking on his skin from the battle . When he arrives in the forest , he finds himself torn between helping the animals and helping the humans . Ashitaka : Look , everyone ! This is what hatred looks like ! This is what it does when it catches hold of you ! It's eating me alive , and very soon now it will kill me ! Fear and anger only make it grow faster ! I think it is honor that drives him to help the women of Irontown . I don't think he really is fighting on the side of Lady Eboshi . At least we don't want him to because she is after all trying to kill the forest spirit . I think Ashitaka is trying to take both sides or is at least trying to promote peace . He sees that humans need to work to make a living and that might include chopping down a few trees . The wolf tells him that when the trees are chopped down they cry . I don't like chopping down trees , but I don't think they cry . ; ) That was when the movie went off into a more mythological interpretation . While Princess Mononoke takes the side of the wild boar tribe , Ashitaka takes the side of the outcasts working in an iron mine . A much more realistic feel than most Disney animations . This also has a much deeper emotional appeal for adults . I could have watched the dragonflies and butterflies in this movie for a much longer period of time . The delicate mist floating over the lush hillsides was amazing in itself . The beauty of the forest spirit was just amazing and really you just have to see this movie to believe how beautiful animation can be . The scenes of the Night walker are just astounding from an animation perspective . ~ The Rebecca Review
• 009 4  It made a lot of people's top ten list , I know . But I think they needed to watch it again . This was , in my humble opinion , the best movie that came out in 1999 . It's a shame it didn't get a broader release in the theatres , but I'm glad it came to my town . There is something horrible and beautiful about nature , and this film shows that in a number of stunning ways . Man's treatment of nature is more horrible because it is not malicious but ignorant . While that comment might make the film sound preachy , it's anything but . It is personal and touching in ways that are difficult to express . We care about these characters , and they are real . No one here is truly evil , but their different attitudes and goals bring them into conflict . The lack of a villian might seem strange to mainstream American audiences , but it is a refreshing change of pace . Everything about this movie is wonderful , the art , the plot , the characters , the voices , the music . The DVD is especially nice because it includes the original Japenese language tracks and subtitles , so those who are interested in purity of anime will be happy as well .
• 011 4  Like all other reviewers , I will start off by saying that you will not be disappointed . The hipe is not exagerated ; it is that good . The animation is excellant . The colors are georgious , and the character design is appealing . I further fell in love with the character movements , crossing between realistic and stylized . They definitely prove that some things can't be achieved with live motion filming nor with live actors . This story has to be told in animation format . The best part , however , is the story . The story pacing drives you with great action sequences , but still give you enough room to empathize with the the characters and feel their emotions . The heart of the story lies in the setting of Japanes folk-mythology , giving you environment and creatures that take you beyond your imagination . ( The little wood spirits with their rattling heads are my favorites ) However , you are still grounded to reality as traces of modernity begins to encroach on these fantasy worlds . You definitely get the sense that this took place in the recent past and has direct link to our existence .
• 012 4  Rare is it for a film , animated or otherwise , to impact you so deeply that you sit in your chair , unable to move , as the end credits begin to roll ; stunned at what unfolded before your eyes , what you have just had the pleasure of beholding - of experiencing . There or two other anime features that have done this to me . One was Studio Ghibli's heart wrenching masterpiece ' Grave of the Fireflies ' and the other was Studio Gainax's groundbreaking ' The End of Evangelion ' . ' Princess Mononoke ' has taken a place as one of the best films ever created , or should I say dreamed . ' Princess Mononoke ' is a dream come true . I will not go into the plot because I feel everyone should go into this film with an open mind , with no preconceived notions , as I did . Sure , I had a faint idea what the basic premise was , but nothing had prepared me for what I saw on that screen . Mononoke was previously in limited release , showing in small / art theaters in the top 20 markets ( LA , NYC , Chicago , etc . ) Miramax had stated that if it did well in the Minneapolis / St . Paul area then they would go ahead with a full release . Sadly , Mononoke bombed in this market , so many people will never be able experience the film in the theatrical ratio Director Miyazaki originally envisioned . If any Japanese Animation deserved national theatrical release , it is this one . The animation is , in every sense of the word , stunning . Far surpassing traditional Disney animation in terms of CG ingenuity and attention to detail . The film is only rated PG - 13 , but it is really borderline ' R ' . The themes and emotions it deals with will go right over the heads of younger viewers . Plus there is some intense and often times violent action . Decapitations become a common trend in the film , and there is a particularly graphic sequence in which a hog like animal begins to spew blood from its body . In the screening I attended I noticed one boy , around 6 / 7 , bury his head in his father's shoulder . Afterwards , I couldn't help but overhear and younger girl saying to her dad You didn't tell me it was going to be scary . . . . Mononoke is not a child's cartoon , it is serious adult animation with imagery and dialogue to back that up . Speaking of the dialogue , there is * a lot * of it . The film spans more than two hours , which will be too long to keep most second graders interested . As far as dubbing is concerned , it was [ surprisingly ? ] done quite well . Probably one of the best dubs , actually . The translation is excellent and the voice-lip synch is nearly flawless . This is one anime where the dubbing won't detract from the enjoyment of the film . As you probably have figured out by now , I am very excited about Mononoke . I can't help but call the film completely and utterly perfect . From the epic story to the breathtaking animation , Mononoke succeeds on all levels . Any film buff that is a film buff deserves to see this , and this film deserves to be seen .
• 013 4  A lot of Japanese animation is baffling to the casual American browser . It's good eye candy , but never makes much sense , zipping through futuristic scenes and strange fantasies with nary a pause for breath . Among these hyper-caffeinated tales of robots and nubile women , Mononoke sticks out like a chicken at a penguin convention . Think Dances With Wolves , only more epic in scope and universal in theme . Beautifully drawn and animated , Princess Mononoke explores the giant forests of feudal Japan and the effect of civilization on old gods . For 133 jaw-dropping minutes , Hiyao Miyazaki draws you into a complex tale that eschews the easy answers and obvious heroes and villains that Americans expect from animation . If you can't get your head around the idea that this is a serious cartoon , think of it as an Oscar-caliber live-action script , forced into animation because the special effects budget would have been too high . That should get you past continental prejudices enough to lose yourself in the beauty and power of Miyazaki's imagery . Bring your attention span and your brain , and don't miss this movie . You'll kick yourself for missing it in its limited theatrical release .
• 014 4  This review is from : Princess Mononoke ( DVD ) Well , February has seen the first announcements that Princess Mononoke will get a DVD release , and it is apparently more than a rumor , but I'm not holding my breath . As to the movie itself , I must admit I purchased a DVD player just in anticipation of this film ( I figured if Castle of Cagliostro was getting a DVD release , so would Mononoke ) . So as to the movie itself , no amount of praise would really be adequit . Somewhere in the back of my brain is some idea I formed as a child as to exactly what a powerful and moving film should be - - but it is an idea that came to be discarded because let's face it , Star Wars or Disney after puberty doesn't live up to the magic it had at 5 years old . Surprise , surprise , at age 27 I've seen something that reminded me of what it was like to be 5 years old again . Miyazaki has been able to do this consistantly not just because he is a master storyteller ( something so many american films could desperately use ) but because his films immerse you in a world that in a very short time you fail to notice is a cartoon . As advanced as Disney animation is , all it's marvels seem bent on impressing , not on immersion , such that while impressed we cannot help but remember ( sometimes painfully ) that we are watching a cartoon . Mononoke on the other hand will win the audience over with the still beauty of its settings long before they've even grasped the fantastic story line . I must also mention that Mononoke has a simply amazing soundtrack that is free of upbeat musical numbers or pop songs . With what to my ears sound like a few bows to Rimsky-Korsakov , Hisashi's score to this film is as delicious as the film itself , standing well on its own merit , but in conjunction with the film it is utterly unparalleled . Very rarely does it seem that a film solidly hits on every count , and even when it does happen , the force of the film in it's totality is often not so great . Mononoke however is not just a solid film but a very strong film as well . If there is a weak point here it is the english dub , and yet I for one found the dub very enjoyable and convincing . . . yet in a film where everything is perfect , this will no doubt be the point which will earn the most criticism . Anyway , I've said enough . If you havn't seen this , you must . Worth buying a DVD player for this movie alone if they'll just get around to releasing it .
• 016 4  If you're wondering whether you should see this , ask yourself : Do I like action / adventure films ? Do I like action / adventure films without meaningless violence ? Do I want to see a movie with a strong female character who is not the stereotype ( stereotype as in sexy and dangerous , or less dangerously sexy , pure , but too weak and thus needs a male character ) ? Do I want to see anime , but not kiddish anime ? Am I at least mildly interested in the conflict between human interests and the preservation of nature ? Do I question the validity of at least some war ? Can I appreciate artful animation ? Do I want to be able to accept anime as real movies and not silly cuteness ? If you answer yes to ANY of this . . . well , you might have guessed , I would strongly recommend seeing the movie . Of course , the subtitled version is better than the dubbed ; the literal translation being even better than the adjusted one . If you're new to anime , or have never seen an anime movie before , you must see this movie . You will be looking for other anime after this . . .
• 017 4  Princess Mononoke is a movie for anyone . It is not restricted to fans of anime , but to those intelligent enough to appreciate such a great story . It represents everything that is great about anime . It leaves out the senseless sex and violence that plagues many anime films and give anime a bad reputation to those who don't know any better . Fans of Ninja Scroll might very well be bored by this film but the truth is they're not looking for an insightful story . No , they're looking for an endless amount of gore that looks ' cool ' according to them . Princess Mononoke does have its fare share of violence but it's rather tame in comparison to some other anime . True , it does include some decapitating scenes but they aren't without reason . Considering the character's cursed arm is turning him into a demon , the options for showcasing that terrifying power are quite slim , especially when the bow his the weapon of choice . If the arrow was to wound the enemy just as it normally would , then it would prove nothing in terms of the character becoming a demon . It is also important to note that these killings are not glorified in any way , they're brief , and to the point . There's no need for pools of blood and guts . The dubbing in this movie isn't spectacular but you should never expect it to be , in my opinion . If you watch a dubbed movie expecting to be blown away then you're already putting too much emphasis on it . Some people have a real hard time with dubbed films and in some cases I agree , it gets in your head and to tell your self not to think about it is to think about it . You know dubbing's done right when you never have to pay any piece of mind to it and that's why Princess Mononoke works for me . Some people are arrogantly sold on the belief that subtitles are the only way to translate movies . They will watch any dubbed anime and pick out every flaw they can find , which in turn ruins the experience . I pity these people . The visuals are no doubt spectacular , there's no room for debate , you will be impressed . The story backs up the animation perfectly . A person familiar with eastern philosophy / culture will likely have an easier time picking up on subtle things but to be honest , this movie is not very complicated . Any westerner should have no problem with it , so long as they pay good attention . If there's one complaint I agree with to some extent is the lack of character development . You probably won't find yourself caring to much about the characters . The thing is , Princess Mononoke is beyond individuals , and to develop some characters even more would be wasted time in a movie that's already long . You will learn all you need to know . The main character is a man away from his normal surroundings , trying to find truth . He has a short time to live , no time to waste revealing his own quirks which define him . But he is human after all , so we do get to see small glimpses of his personality at times . As for the main heroine , one could argue that she has too much personality considering that she's brought up by wolves . The side characters have a good deal of personality which is great . Now some people have a problem with the ending . It appears to be rather static but gained knowledge and wisdom should not be underestimated . It is a fine ending to an amazing movie . Anyone open to fantasy should love this film .
• 020 4  As I watch the DVD for the millionth time , I remember just how much I love this movie . Over the years I've hated how saccarine and sappy feature cartoons have become in America . I guess part of it's due to culture ; people have a hard time believing that something animated could have meaning , depth , and not be for the entertainment of three year olds . Thank goodness for Japanese animation ! I'm NOT a fan of the dubbed version of the movie ( or of any anime ) . Having watched the subtitled AND dubbed version , I find that even the script of the Japanese version is superior . The American version seem to be a dumbed down version . Example dialogue - American version : Is this soup or donkey piss ? Japanese version : This soup tastes like hot water . Arrrgh ! ! Talk about taking liberties in translation . I won't go further into the details , rent / buy the DVD and see for yourself . The voice actors in the dubbed version just don't have the depth and range of the Japanese voice actors . The plot follows a general man vs . nature plot that Miyazaki is fond of portraying in his movies . For an animated movie that doesn't have dancing / singing / cutesy animals ( quite the opposite ! ^ _ ^ ) and a wonderful story , watch Mononoke Hime !
• 022 4  Japanese anime has a never-ending ability to surprise and refresh my concepts of that is possible in an ' artificial ' format . Perhaps this is merely due to my status as a rank amateur , but I seem to get more excited by this format than I have by any other in some time . There is something in anime that reaches past the traditional limits of modern illustrative animation For example , take ' Princess Mononoke . ' On the surface , this is not a complicated film . Prince Ashitaka receives an evil wound while defending his village from a forest wild boar god that has been driven insane by poisoned bullet . The village wise woman tells Ashitaka that he is doomed to death , and sends him on a quest to the home of the ruined deity , where his task is to ' see with eyes unclouded by hatred . ' And so , Ashitaka comes to Irontown where the need for resources has put the town in conflict with the natural world about them . The beautiful Lady Eboshi leads the town on a perpetual assault against the forest . There , with the aid of Jigo , the Emperor's representative , she plans to kill the forest spirit and give its head to the Emperor . Opposing her is the wolf girl San , Princess Mononoke . San and her wolves are fighting a losing battle to stop Eboshi and her villagers . She has renounced her fellow humans and seeks to kill all who endanger the forest . Into the middle of this steps Ashitaka , who tries to help both sides to survive , and receives few thanks for his concern . Too often , this type of plot would invite a great deal of overacting and bombastic dialogue . Yet that is exactly what does not happen in Hiyao Miyuzaki's delivery of this tale . The viewer will come to love the villagers and can at least admire Lady Eboshi for her fierce determination and care for her own . Jigo is driven by greed , but he is hardly unwise , and knows how to bend with circumstances . Mononoke is angry , fiercely bloodthirsty as well as beautifully and tragically heroic . Only Ashitaka is all of one color , despite a wound that threatens to turn him into a demon . Instead of being a pretty film with a message , Miyazaki has created a film with many levels . He turns his eye to many conflicts that have no clear resolution and allows them to retain the dignity of their context . Thus , an animated film becomes more real than reality , where even the tragedy of change can become life affirming . The naturalness of the translation and dubbing ( carried out under the watchful eye of Neil Gaiman ) will also surprise those of us who are used to having to watch the sub-titles to get a true sense of what is being said . This film is extremely worthwhile , and watchable by any audience that can manage the unavoidable violence . One that will stay in mind for some time to come , and that I will mention when someone asks me what I would recommend as an introduction to the complex world of anime .
• 025 4  So true that anime does not always impress us . In this country we get so wrapped up with our local movie standards , that a full-length animated feature usually receives massive criticism before it's even viewed . Mononoke Hime , or ( in this country ) Princess Mononoke , is a Japanese film directed by Hayao Miyazaki - one of the most admired and creative producers of animated movies of all time . He is sometimes viewed to be as well known in Japan as Walt Disney is in the US . Mononoke Hime is Miyazaki's final animated film and thought by many , including myself , to be the one of most amazing projects completed by means of animation . The artwork is stunning - a visual reminder to people ( even those who don't generally flock to cartoons ) of what effects hand painted cells are capable of achieving-effects that live action movies can not quite reach . The story is compelling and the character development helps it flow smoothly along throughout the movie . It is a tad bit gory in a few scenes , though not in an unrealistic or tasteless manner - one of which that does not fall under the general reputation of violent mainstream Japanese animation . Above all , it is simply a very well done and beautiful film . I have seen it only in Japanese with someone sitting next to me , translating each line as it came . It appealed to me then and ever since ; I have hoped to find a version in Japanese with English subtitles . So here's hoping that the advantage of numerous languages in a DVD format will reach this film some day .
• 026 4  I'd like to say that those who claim Mononoke Hime is cartoon for 4 year-old children make all the ( real ) anime lovers laugh . And all the people that can appreciate a true art of work as well . If you don't like the movie and you have the right ( it depends on your sensitivity ) , don't say it's sputid , cos ' you're the one that sound ridiculous . Mononoke Hime is a true masterpiece , quite different from Miyazaki's previous works because it is precisely NOT aimed at children . I don't want to make any spoilers , so I would only say it's the most intelligent , profound and meaningful story I've never seen on an animated feature ( and I've seen and loved Ghost in the shell . . . ) . But Miyazaki's philosophy is not expressed by words but by behaviours and actions . Animation is hard work so don't think the filmmaker has added some scenes to fill the movie . Each scene has a signification ( sometimes difficult to understand when you don't know anything about japanese culture and religion ) . I think it needs several viewings to fully appreciate the richness of this work . Oh , japanese version with english subtitles highly recommended !
• 028 4  First , some concessions . I do not speak Japanese , so I can say nothing about the Japanese language version or the quality of the translation . Also , I am not an rabid anime fan , and in fact this was the first japanese-animated feature film I ever saw ( I have seen more since ) . Finally , this movie takes maturity to watch and appreciate - there is some graphic animated violence and mature themes throughout . Now , on to the review . This animated film by Hayao Miyazaki is absolutely amazing . It embodies all the things you should look for in animation , and it stands as one of the greatest films - and , along with Ran ( directed by Kurosawa ) , my favorite film from Japan . First , let me say that the story was terrific , using developed characters and tackling real-world problems of environmentalism and technology tastefully and without an abundance of feel-good Sierra-club nonsense a la Captain Planet and Ferngully . It explores humanity's relationship with nature , the struggle for human survival , and the difficulties of human advancement . While there is a large degree of sentimentalism ( Randians beware ) the story should appeal to a wide range of audiences . The most amazing thing about the movie is the art and art direction , all masterfully done . The entire movie is a feast for the eyes , both characters and backgrounds are drawn with fascinating detail and rich , crisp color . The artistic and directorial talent deserves the utmost respect . You'll have to see the movie to believe how good it is . The sound is well done , but for those of you wanting to utilize your overly expensive surround sound systems , you'll find yourself missing out ( sorry ) . The sounds are crisp , though , and complement the visual experience beautifully . The music is a chapter all to itself , both complementing the other senses and leading your emotions throughout the whole film . The voice talent is mixed . Americans will certainly recognize Jada Pinkett Smith ( horrible ) , Minnie Driver ( excellent ) , Billy Bob Thorton ( so-so ) , and Claire Daines ( excellent ) . A fellow reviewer claims that the poor voice actors hurt the movie beyond repair , but this is nonsense . The dubbing is excellent ( read : does not look stupid and mismatched ) . Regarding translation , see the concessions . This movie showcases japanese animation and animation in general . The crispness of sound , enchantment of music , and vividness of color make this film a thrill ride for the senses . The movie avoids the problem of having many things happening at once , and clearly shows what is happening even during the fast-paced battle scenes - - a sure sign of directorial experience . Praise for Hayao Miyazaki is practically neverending . If you enjoy Japanese animation , you probably already own this film . If you absolutely hate it , watch this movie anyway - I think it will change your mind . This movie is essential for any DVD library . Buy it .
• 030 4  at first , i never was really interested in this movie until i've seen all the reviews everyone made ( most of them said it was good ) so i got more interested in Princess Mononoke . i first bought the cd which has amazing music.i just bought my dvd earlier this week and let me tell you , it is truly an amzing movie . i watched it 3 times already and i still have not grown tired of it . Sure , it has some violent scenes but besides that it is a very good movie . I am just 13 and I have loved this movie . Although this movie is very good , i recommend it is not a movie for children because of all the violence but if you are old enough , it will seem like a good movie .
• 031 4  Yes its a masterpiece , but it has its flaws . The storyline doesn't flow as coherently as I had hoped , its a little disjointed in places , with a few moments which were a bit slow and tedious , but the brilliant animation was enough to make up for it . The themes of nature vs . human progress ( on the brink of an industrial revolution here ) is frighteningly similiar to reality , only our forests on earth do not have animal spirit-gods to protect them . Their leader is a girl who believes herself to be a wolf - who is of course Princess Mononoke , raised by wolves and befriended by the wolfgods , she is the link between the human race and the mysteries of the forest . There is the bad guy ( in this case a woman ) , Lady Eboshi , who is spookily similiar to the antagonist in Hayao Miyazaki's other work , the spectacular Nausicaa ( or Warriors of the Wind as was its title in the US ) . In fact , the whole movie is like a modern ( or less modern ) retelling of Nausicaa with a few new trappings . The enviromentalist themes are all intact only this time there's no demon summoning , although a few boars get turned into them . Which leads me to a point . I know ALOT of people in the United States especially are not familiar with anime tend to believe that animation = children fare . Well this is not the case , anime is generally slanted for an adult audience , most often in very extreme cases , with R rated themes . They are basically hard core sci fi or fantasy but set with moving drawings instead of live action . The PG - 13 rating is there for a reason . This movie is violent , it is bloody , there are boars with their flesh rotting off , beheadings and other acts of violence . But its not gratitious , there is reason behind it , this movie attempts to make many points on many levels and instead of just talking about it often gives us the visual images to go along with the message . It's entirely necessary and even made me a little queasy at times , but was more than worth it . Children 12 + should be able to handle it if they are mature enough , although just the ideas of animals turning into demons by their inner hatred can be confusing , again its making a point that violence is not the way to go and that problems can be solved with other ways than falling back on the savage core of the living - which is hate . Of special note is Ashitaka's steed , a gazelle , who moves with such fluidity and grace , that everytime they take the screen together , I can't take my eyes off of them . It's gorgeous watching it leap and bound across the screen , very well done . Overall Princess Mononoke comes highly recommended as a landmark in Japanese animation , however falls under the bar that was set by Nausicaa back in the 1980s . Few movies have managed to eclipse that one in general but it still stands as the best of Miyazaki's work . Anime fans have probably already seen it and loved it but parents beware that start to reach for the film based on Miyazaki's kid's fare like the often annoying Totoro and the sweet witch's fantasy Kiki's Delivery Service , that this is particular flick takes a much more mature direction and the real anime fans are thankful for it .
• 032 4  This is a great fantasy movie , carrying far more emotion than most anime and almost all live-action fantasy done lately . I do agree that the voice casting is a little weird , BUT it could be worse . At least they used real actors , and not some idiots off the street . And if you don't like the voices , the DVD does include the Japanese soundtrack . Now , about those endless complaints about the inaccurate translation - this is one of the best anime translations I've seen so far . Remember the cousins in the American version of Sailor Moon ? ( They weren't cousins in the original script . . . ) Remember Ed in Cowboy Bebop , who mysteriously turned into a boy in the American version ? Mononoke's translation may not be word-for-word , but it is a great translation of the spirit of the work - and that is how good translation should be done . Sorry , but the stinging insult this soup tastes like water simply wouldn't have done it for me . Top marks to Neil Gaiman - and if you like this story , check out Sandman - the Dream Hunters . There , rant finished - now BUY THIS DVD ! !
• 033 4  This evening I sat with my son and watched this wonderful movie once again . I think it is a stunning story , is a visual wonder , and has very attractive music . The movie is so rich that you can pick up new details and poetic points with each new viewing . While the English voice over actors are quite good , I do recommend a viewing or two with the Japanese voices and English subtitles . I don't speak Japanese , but the characterization of THOSE voices adds a lot to the story and the English subtitles are a bit different than the voice over . The creatures come , I suspect , from Japanese myth and are very different than anything I have experienced in Western myth . It is quite wonderful . There are powerful and disturbing images that might not be suitable for very young children , but there is no gore for gore's sake . But the way the creatures become demons is very powerful and intense . I am glad to own this disk and suspect you would enjoy it as well .
• 034 4  Hayao Miyazaki has created a film that places among the best I have ever seen , and I am not limiting my comparison to the anime genre . The director presents the fight of good vs . evil not only through different characters , but also related to the conflict in one of the main characters ( Ashitaka ) . The concept is similar to the one used in Dr . Jekyll and Mr . Hyde , but in this film Ashitaka is still trying to contain the inner demon and prevent it from coming out . Right from the start we are mesmerized by the beautiful colors and animation , with crisp drawings and scenes of bliss . Miyazaki is very crafty in using this tool , together with well-chosen music to depict the mood of each scene . But happiness has an end , and in this case , the small village that was portrayed so lively , is attacked by a demon from the forest . Ashitaka is in place and tries to stop this demon before it reaches the village , being partly successful in his attempt . He gets to destroy the demon before he can kill all of his loved ones , but he also touches it in the process . This means that now he is doomed to be overtaken by the evil spirits and die an awful death . This sense of fatality is not unknown in the epic anime genre , and usually we get to see the main characters go on a quest that is impossible to achieve . This case is not different , and even though the Oracle tells Ashitaka that he cannot change his fate , she mentions that there may be an alternative by going west and facing the calamity of Mikado ( evil demon ) to lift the curse . So Ashitaka leaves the village knowing he should never return . That is when the classic epic adventure starts , and we go on a journey through a forest full of fantastic creatures , gods and demons . One of these creatures is no other than Princess Mononoke , a young girl whose soul the wolf stole , and who has vowed to kill the wolf's enemy , Lady Eboshi . The relationship that develops between Ashitaka and Mononoke is a complex one , and Miyazaki uses the disturbed nature of these characters masterfully to make the story even more interesting . When you put together a great story , with impeccable animation , appropriate music that complements the action perfectly and a few surprises here and there , the result is a movie that is top notch . Therefore , the only thing left to say is that I highly recommend this film , it is a must see !
• 035 4  I find most of it tiresome . . . Confusing or non-existing plots , thin characterizations , dialogue tangents that stray from the story , occasional surrealism to make even Salvador Dali go , Huh ? Princess Mononoke doesn't suffer from any of these . Even if you're not a fan of anime , you should check this movie out . The visuals are stunning . One really can not praise this movie enough for its wonderful animation . From the wide shot landscape scenery to the tight action , Princess Mononoke offers the best there is in Japanimation . The story will make you comtemplative . The bad guys aren't truly bad , and the good guys aren't 100% good . It's all about shades of gray , like real life , but that doesn't mean there aren't plenty of morality lessons one can carry away from it . The English translation is well done by voice actors you will easily recognize , but I also recommend watching it in Japanese with subtitles . The Japanese speech has a beauty to its rhythm that isn't as present in the English dialogue . Also , there are some subtle differences in the subtitle translations versus the spoken translations . They're minor , but I found them interesting none the less . P Mononoke comes very close to being truly outstanding . Give it a try .
• 037 4  THE FILM : Princess Mononoke is the masterwork of a master . This is the film you would throw at people who despise Japanese animation , and make them speechless . It is by far the best animated film I have seen - - with a sweeping , tender story , breathtaking picture / animation quality , and an excellent score . The English translation / dubbing job is wonderful . Aside from the sheer skill of this work , this is a movie with a soul . It's one of those rare movies that take you on a journey and leave you in a different place emotionally from when you began . The moments of wonder , horror , and awe - - the woodpecker sound of a tree spirit , the growth of plants at the hooves of the forest god , the massacre of boars , the hands of death - - will remain in your mind for a long time . I don't want to overhype , so just go see it and you'll understand ! ( As for the violence and disturbing images of this film , none of it is tasteless . It's like violence in a war film ; it has to be there . It is not for small children , but small children would probably not understand this movie anyway , so it's not really an issue ( note the PG - 13 rating ! ) Also , there are plenty of pretty images to compensate ; my lasting impression was that it was a beautiful film . ) THE DVD : It's great that you can keep with you this fascinating film , but it has practically no special features . It is a shame that none of the making of the film features from the Japanese DVDs have made it onto the US release .
• 039 4  First off I would like to address an issue many people have with Japanese Animation . Much of it is trashy , silly , sexually overt rubbish targeting sexually deprived teenage males . I can see why many people steer clear from anything classified as anime . I urge any potential view with these concerns to open your mind and watch this film . If I could only recommend one Japanese animated film this would definately be it . Hayao Miyazaki is often referred to as the Japanese Walt Disney . If you see his other films ( which are all excellent ) you can see why , however this film does not fit that role . Princess Mononoke despite it's fairy-tale-like sounding name is definately not targeting a younger audience . This movie is for adults . While some of the scenes may be a little to strong for children , that's not to say there is anything lewd or obcene in the film , but the story is a drama written for the adult mindset . I was fortunate enough to see this film in the theatres where I was left amazed and speechless as the credits rolled up . This movie is simply fantastic . If you are speculative , I urge you to rent a copy at your nearest video store and watch it with your full attention . Then come back here to write your own review as you place your order for your own copy .
• 040 4  I think that , although the movie is a little gorey , this movie is the best movie of the 90 ' s . I wasn't sure that i wanted to see it at first , mostly because i had never heard of it before , and because it was anime , and i had never chased after anime movies before . Now , looking back , if I hadn't said I would go , I realise that I would be missing so much . The movie is a definate * 5 * , and anyone with enough guts to stomach a little cartoon violence should seriously see it . Some people said they didn't like it , but the majority said it was an excellent movie , as I do . I am sure you will agree with me ( after you see it , because I am insisting that you do ) . . . .
• 042 4  This is the most amazing Japanese anime film I have ever seen ! This movie will leave you in a state of awe long after it is over . I am especially enchanted by the thought that the animals of the forest once had a consciousness . . . that is before the Spirit of the Forest was killed . Afterwards , the animals never speak again . I also love the blend of real Japanese legends mixed into the plot . Like the Kodama who mysteriously and suddenly appear only to hop around and click their heads . Doesn't the legend about them say that they only appear to those who have an honest heart and bring good luck ? The animation is excellent , but the plot is what makes the movie . This is a must see , but can be a bit too scary for the kids . Although I recently gave a copy to a [ . . . ] boy who is mature for his age , I wouldn't recommend to others giving it to anyone under [ . . ] old . Parents should see it and then make their own judgement call . But don't blow this off ! It is definitely worth the effort . You will really be missing out if you don't see this film . YOU WON'T REGRET THIS BUY .
• 043 4  i dont know why everyone is recomending this movie to older audiences because of violence , or deep plot . there is not that much violence in this movie , and the plot is easy to follow . I watched this movie in 4th grade and thought it was great . the character development is fantastic and the animals are suposed to be gods , not just animals ( to those who think this is an environmentalist movie ) . this was an excelent movie from a great japanese writer .
• 044 4  I have had the privilege of seeing Miyazaki's Spirited Away and Castle in the Sky prior to Princess Mononoke , and so far all of them stand up to his legendary status . There is not a single of his movies that I've seen so far , much less a moment through any of them , that you could do away with and criticize for being unnecessary . The story of Princess Mononoke gets you hooked within minutes , with animation and music that make you forget that you are not watching a live feature . The result of some of the landscape shots to the score by Joe Hisaishi result breathtaking and the voiceover of some extraordinary North American talent ( Billy Bob Thornton , Claire Danes , Jada Pinkett Smith , etc . ) makes the movie stand out even more , further helping bridge a cultural gap that was unthinkable to overcome years ago . In a nutshell , Princess Mononoke is a movie both you and your children will enjoy . It leaves you with a very powerful message about the struggle between the human race and nature , and how our progress has gradually done away with entire forests , resulting in animals loosing their homes and us loosing the benefits trees bring about . It is more than just an environmental message . It questions our motivations and puts things in perspective , showing how even those with the best intentions can eventually do wrong , causing harm to others . In short , check it out . Not to be passed .
• 045 4  This was the first anime film I have seen , and I can honestly say . . . I AM HOOKED ! The animation is amazing . But more importantly I loved the story . It was fantasy and real life put together . It wasn't a predictable movie and that is a good thing . I absolutely loved those little white forest dwellers ( forgive me for not knowing there name ) and their clicking . They are sooo cute and wonderfully constructed . I could watch this movie on repeat all day .
• 046 4  As a fan of anime , I had read quite a few reviews on Princess Mononoke . I knew , before I even saw this film , that it would become one of my favourites if not my favourite . Well , I want you to know that this film exceeded all my expectations and then some , a powerful and gripping tale . This film , will leave you awestruck with its beautifully illustrated animation , very emotional story , and masterfully done music score . To quote an old commerical , It doesn't get any better than this .
• 048 4  Princess Mononoke is one of my all time favorite anime movies . The animation is beautiful , the story is compelling , and the music is just wonderful . I , however , will not purchase the dub only DVD and I suggest everyone do the same . This movie is much better it it's orginal japanese audio . . . and I'm going to wait for a DVD release with english subtitles .
• 052 4  I loved this film . I saw it having seen little or no anime before , and was most impressed . The visuals are absolutely stunning at times and the characters expressively drawn . Not only that , but it has a well-crafted story which bravely avoids the trap of a cliched ' Hollywood ' ending where the ' bad guys ' get beaten and the ' good guys ' kiss and live happily ever after . The characters and factions in the story are much less black and white than pretty much all animation ( and live action for that matter ) that I've seen . All ' sides ' in the central conflict of nature versus technology have legitimate motivations , and all of them also have something to learn . The ending is quite ambiguous ( perhaps leaving room for a sequel ? ) , leaving behind the moral that conflicting points of view can exist together without one having to destroy the other . I only had a couple of gripes . Firstly , I thought the two central characters could have done with a bit more meaningful dialogue to develop them and their relationship . This may be a symptom of the second problem , which was that the English adaptation of the script was a little disappointing . I've only seen the film in English ( I'd like to see it in the original Japanese with subtitles , which is possible with the DVD ) , and I thought the 90s American voices jarred somewhat with the mythic Japanese setting . Some of the voices fitted the characters quite well ( Gillian Anderson's character , for example ) but others just seemed out of place , like the warrior monk who sounded like Hank off King of the Hill ! However , overall I enjoyed the film very much and appreciated its lessons . It addresses contemporary issues without detracting from its status as an exciting mythic tale .
• 053 4  This movie is perhaps one of the greatest works of art that I have ever seen . The animation is truly gorgeous for everything from the people , to the animals , and the landscape . The plot becomes extremely in-depth as the movie progresses , and the characters are never absolutely good or evil . The lines between the two often times become blurry . As for the characters themselves , their personalities are shaped so deeply that they become more than drawn sprites on the screen . The music is incredibly powerful making the experience even more gripping . This was definitely made for the mature movie-goer that thirsts for something more than the feeble attempts at good animated classics from Disney . This is not a movie , but an experience .
• 054 4  This is NOT your typical Disney faire.The animation is absolutely breath-taking and the scope of the story is pure imagination.There is a little violence with the beasts of the forest , so this is not a movie for the little ones - - but from 8years and up it is a lavish and beautifully illustrated story from a master at Japanese anime . I heartily recommend this film .
• 055 4  One note : If you loved the film , don't give it a bad star rating because you don't like the way it's being presented - rate the film itself , and give your misgivings about the format in the review . All a bad rating does is take away from the splendour of the film when newcomers decide to check it out on amazon ! Second , the DVD is in fact being released with Japanese language option . It can be watched in English Dub , OR Japanese with ( at least ) English subtitles . I absolutely LOVED Princess Mononoke , both storywise , visually , and aurally . I can't wait to watch it in the pristine crystal clear widescreen format with digital sound that DVD allows . Get this disc !
• 056 4  I had only seen two works by Miyazaki prior to Princess Mononoke . I already knew that Studio Ghibli produced really terrific anime , and that Miyazaki had a knack for presenting film moments that make us sign in that part of us that senses wonder . This film has , bar none other , one of the most enthrallingly magical sequences I have ever seen : the section in the heart of the forest where we see the forest spirit as NightWalker . These few cinematic moments were , to me as a Christian , almost holy . The film is of a different myth / religion , but it captures that ineffable , that transcendant , that wordless experience where part of you KNOWS that there is truth there , that there is something beyond atoms and molecules , and it is powerful and necessary and benevolent ( although it can destroy , as we later see with the Forest Spirit ) . It is a moment that made me think of 60 ' s psychedlia - - a bit - - and the special taste of clean night winds in moonlight - - a bit - - and the way you feel when you've prayed a powerful prayer . You have to see it to understand . It's the combination of color , music , pacing , editing , expression , and the sheer otherness of this deity ( I'm not Japanese , so the Forest Spirit , tree spirits , these things have a strangeness that was exhilirating . ) I don't really know how to analyze properly how Miyazaki did it , but he captures a holy moment that transcends the story itself . Amazing . Anyway , this site has numerous summaries of the plot . I'll spare you mine . I'll simply say that the outworking of this quest story , a story of man vs . nature , man vs himself , and the place of humanity within the natural context , is very powerful and extremely beautiful . Even dubbed , you will be captivated . There is a moment near the end where there is this pause - - many seconds passing when you wait , wait , wait and the screen seems not to change . And you find yourself hoping , praying for a change . And when the first perceptible changes come , it's such a relief . Such an answer to prayer . This film is like an answer to prayer . It says things we need to listen to , and it can speak to folks outside of the Japanese culture and the nature religions . Good is sometimes supremely good here , and evil is . . . not always purely evil . Sometimes , it's just ignorant or selfish or unthinking . . . or somehow motivated by higher motives . And that shows a filmmaker with compassion and understanding of how people work . And of how the larger cosmos works , too . I can't recommend it too strongly . A work of art . Mir
• 057 4  All I can say is that I think that this movie is absolutely incredible . This movie is one that will make you think about the lesson that it teaches you ; about humans and nature and it's creatures living at peace with one another without hatred or fighting , and the consequences that will come from the disturbance of that peace . Miyazaki is a genius , in my opinion . I watched another movie of his called Spirited Away , and though I was blown away by it also , I think that Princess Mononoke is even better . The animation for this move is stunning , the only small complaint I have is how bloody and gory this movie is , but again , this shows the brutality of the consequences that result from abuse of nature and its rescources.This move is definitely not for young kids , but anyone over 12 or 13 should be able to take the bloodiness of it and be able to understand the plot . All in all this is an excellent movie , definitely worth buying , so go watch it and be prepared to be completely blown away .
• 058 4  I love this movie and have watched it ten times . Each time I learn more from it and I think this is one of the geatest animes of all time . I may only be 13 , but I understand the concept of the movie . I like how the characters arn't evil or good . It tells one messege : Don't misuse nature and it's resources . At least that's what I think ^ - ^ I + I Moro I + I
• 059 4  Miyazaki pulls another winner ! Amazing animation , beautiful story , and capturing characters , all expected from Miyazaki . It truly shows the connection between humans and nature . A must-see .
• 060 4  While Disney is regurgitating the same old formula year afer year and training us for the expected , what are the filmmakers doing over in Japan ? They're simply turning out the most creative tales , jawdropping visuals and ( especially in Miyazaki's films ) the imaginitive UNexpected that animation has ever seen . After growing up spoon-fed with Disney , what I've seen of Miyazaki has effectively hit me over the head with a steel beam . Princess Mononoke is absolutely an animated epic . I really think that The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings ( with their epic journeys , warring factions and unknown lands ) had a strong influence on this film , and they give you a good idea of the general plot and feel . Then , throw in samurais and a big helping of Japanese myth ( which really isn't any more objectionable to western religion than our own Mother Earth myth , if this is a concern for you ) . Beyond any feel or ingredients list , though , is an awesomely complex and creative storyline , the like of which I've never seen before in an animated film . I believe that this film is so good that it could easily stand being done in live action and could be huge on the scale of a LoTR movie ( no joke ) . Princess Mononoke just happens to be done in animation . Princess Mononoke really blew me away . I've never been a fan of Japanese animation , but I'm becoming a fan of Miyazaki . The difference is in the story and the creativity . I highly recommend Princess Mononoke to everyone , but especially to the average moviegoer who needs convincing to try it out . The only folks I'd like to warn are those who have a tendency to think or say this is weird 20 minutes into a film and give up on it . You have to have a little bit more of an open mind than Disney would like us to have . You'll be rewarded if you closely follow the film and have that open mind .
• 061 4  I finally got to see Princess Mononoke b / c a friend of mine let me borrow it and let me tell you , it's awesome ! The animation is great , the characters are awesome , the whole storyline is sweet ! There is a good message behind it - - not to mistreat nature . Of course there's blood and mild language in it , that's why it's rated PG - 13 , don't you think ? Of all the characters , the wolves would have to be the best ! Word of advice - - if you want you younger kid ( hey , I'm 15 , not a kid ! ) like 7 or so , and you want them to watch a kiddie anime , may I suggest Pokemon ? Maybe even Hamtaro ? Hayao Miyazaki-san is a genius ! He likes to emphasis blood , but he has a good messange in his creations . If you want to see other anime by him , I deffinately suggest Spirited Away ( and this of course ) !
• 065 4  I initially avoided seeing Mononoke is theaters , not because it was animated ( far from it ) , but because it looked a little too artsy for me . At the time , the only anime I cared about was brainless ninja stuff with super powers . But after seeing the DVD , I'm kicking myself for not experiencing this on the big-screen . In a weird sort of way , the story is actually more political than theological , even with the gods and demons and talking animals . This is the kind of movie that should really be held up as a shining example of Japanese animation . It has a beautiful story , realistic characters , and a great mix of cell and computer animation . Even the English voice cast was terrific , which is something I almost never say . It also doesn't hurt when the original script is adapted by comics legend Neil Gaiman , who has a real respect for the work . It's unfortunate that Mononoke wasn't as big a success over here as it was in Japan ( where it was narrowly beaten out by Titanic ) . It could have opened a whole wave of anime movies being released theatrically over here . All I can suggest is to buy this movie , and maybe let Miramax know how much you enjoyed it .
• 066 4  As there are already a lot of excellent customer reviews , I'll only throw in my 2 cents . This is an excellent blend of action anime with a many-layered dramatic story . While it is probably too adult for a pre-teen ( graphic violence and the complexity of the characters ) , it is rare to see any film pack that much meaning and drama while still having enough visual conflicts to keep the action addicts happy . There is no black and white in this movie . There are no darkest villians or perfect heros . Just many real people with real emotions , ideals , and prejudices . The violence may be graphic , but it is not pointless , though it might require a decent knowlege of the martial arts , asian or western , to fully appreciate . Watch the reactions of the spectators and remember that most people in film have only seen swords and arrows as weapons . To them , a musket that can fire half-inch diameter ball of iron the same distance as an arrow is a super-weapon . Then consider a hand-cannon ( tiny canon mounted on a stout staff for support and bracing - the first firearms ) that fires 2 - 3 inch diameter solid iron balls , the power of the nature clans , and the power of a demon curse . No , I'd say the graphic aspect is pretty tame . I've fired a one inch hand cannon ( historical re-creation society - and no , NOT at any person or animal - sickos ) , so I've seen first hand what they can do . I'd say an excellent job was done conveying the horror of the conflicts without getting gratuitous or showing what would REALLY happen ( Saving Private Ryan for example , which is still watered down ) . There may be some scenes that seem like pointless violence ( expecially with the English Dub ) , but you should discover the meanings after watching it several times . I'm over half a dozen viewings , and I'm still finding subtle nuances I missed . This is simply an excellent dramatic film with the freedom of visual expression Anime can provide , and boy , does this film provide ! For the greatest adult enjoyment , see the film in Japanese with the English subtitles ( well , short of being fluent in Japanese with a good knowlege of Japanese culture and history , present and ancient - but that's a bit much to ask ) As for the Dubbing - well , considering the prejudices of the US film market and the realities the film buisiness , they pretty much have to dumb down the English versions to create a wide enough appeal to pay for the English release in the first place , expecially since this was first done in the US as a theatrical release with some expensive talent . While the English dub definately loses a lot of the drama of the original Japanese , it certainly is not near as bad as 80% of the other dubs I've seen . As it stands , it is an excellent translation for the general English speaking audience . And if it gets more people to appreciate Anime and hopefully insipire them to watch it with literal English subtitles , well I consider it a good thing . As it stands , unless there's a multi-billionare out there who wants to spend a LOT of money to get an accurate English dubbing and the extra treatment a lot of Anime deserves , we'll all just have to settle for a good subtitle job or learn fluent Japanese and sorrow for the countless others who miss the true nature of good Anime . In short , this is one of the best FILMS I have ever seen . It's a real shame that the distributors chickened out and haven't marketed it as it deserves . But , what can you expect from Buena Vista ( a.k.a . Disney ) since it is so vastly different from their standard animation . While I can decry about what should have been done , I also have to thank them for making it widely available . Hmmm . . . . seems I dropped a $20 bill with the two pennies .
• 067 4  I just starting about a year ago to go into other anime other than DragonBall Z . I've seen DragonBall , DragonBall Z , DragonBall GT , and some of the new DragonBall episodes just coming out in Japan . I've also seen Blue Sub 6 , Gundam 0080 , Gundam Wing , Gundam Wing : Endless Waltz , Tenchi Muyo , Tenchi Universe , Tenchi in Tokyo , ( some Sailor Moon to kill time ) , and Outlaw Star , and am now searching for new anime to watch . This was my first pick that I found to rent . This is one of the best anime I have ever seen . Of course , I'd rather watch it in Japanese with English subtitles than English dubbed . I would recommend this to all beginner and moderate anime fans out there . I can't speak for true anime fans since I have not gone as far with it as others have . In short , this is a must have .
• 068 4  Hmmm . . . I'm disturbed by both some of the negative and the positive reviews on this board . I bought the DVD , without seeing it , simply because Neil Gaiman ( The Sandman from DC Comics ) wrote the English adaptation . I brought it home and watched it with the subtitles and then watched it with the dubbing . Needless to say , the film is what a film should be . Both the English and Japanese voice actors are strong , the direction is terrific and the plot makes sense . If you think anime ( not Japanime or Japanimation - rather insulting terms if you ask me ) is all about cyberpunk or action or weird little pocket monsters , for God's sake , please educate yourself . The film works on mutliple levels and in many different ways . If you're not ready or willing to think when you watch something like this then , by all means , go rent Akira again ( not slamming it , I rather like it ) and look at the levels beyond the surface of that film . Then go buy the Marvel / Epic editions of the Akira manga and read those . Once you realize the underlying ideas and thoughts running through there you should be ready to take on Mononoke .
• 070 4  This movie is so great , that I don't know where or how to start . I'm sure you already know the story by reading other people's comments , but I would just like to imphasize on it . This movie was so breathtaking that I have loved it ever since I saw it in Japan in 1997 . I loved it , and now I love it even more . In fact it wasn't just great entertainment but very inspirational on the conflicts between man and nature , war and destruction and love . I HIGHLY recomend it to any nature lover ( such as myself ) , animation fan or anyone . If you think all anime are the same , think again . This may have some blood and violence , but thats what the story is about . You cant block all the bad stuff out from the world , like Miyazaki said . This is surely a great work of Miyazaki and I hope many people will watch it and learn from it .
• 071 4  Unfortunately , animation films are never nominated for best picture - - let alone best foreign film . In my opinion , this was the best film of 1999 ( American release ) . It is a story of mythic proportions , that tells the tale of a woman of nature pitted against a woman of industry . It's also the tale of a young prince outcasted by a bizzare disease who tries to bring peace between the two factions . And finally it's a tale of those who hunt a god , and the ramifications this brings . Miyazaki's artwork is breath-taking , and you will never forget this film . Puts Disney productions to shame . In Japan , this is the highest-grossing blockbuster of all time . I've seen this in Japanese without subtittles , and then I saw the American dubbed version . Though I prefer hearing it in the original Japanese , the dubbed version is highly respectable .
• 074 4  To Soccer75 . . . PG - 13 means that it's for people aged 13 and above . It is implied that people of those ages are mature enough to understand and handle the content within . It's NOT FOR JUNIOR . Don't blame whoever decided on the rating for your inattentiveness . Also , do the words fairy tale or myth mean anything to you ? In short , please take your closed mind elsewhere . - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Anyways , this is perfect fare to be watched on the computer with a pair of headphones on . As was stated above , this has a PG - 13 rating FOR A REASON . Even I , a mature young woman of 19 years , was disgusted at points by the gore . If you have a young child into anime , try lighter fare like some of the things shown on Cartoon Network's Toonami block , dubbed Sailor Moon , or Code LYOKO . For folks still hanging around , there's lush visuals , beautiful audio , and decent voiceacting to be enjoyed ( headphones ! ) , as well as a wonderful story told through those mediums . Wolves , apes , cute little rattle-head thingies , and boars abound , some playing pivotal roles . Bonds of trust and loyalty are shown . There is love , hate , and compassion all woven in . Everything flows together wonderfully . If you can get over the violence ( and have an open mind ) , this is definitely one to see . I for one enjoyed it .
• 076 4  I owned this DVD for 8 - 10 months before i unwrapped and watched it - - I didn'T like Spirited Away ( you tell me why ; I don't know ) . But I loved Grave of the Fireflies from the same studio , and Whiper of the Heart , which I think Miyazaki had a hand in . Miyazaki takes the complexities of a simple problem ( must the need for mechanization and what we make of natual resourses ruin nature ? ) and weaves a story of the most glorious creatures one has ever seen , imagined or not had the imagination to imagine . And although there is a hero and a heroine , nobody else is all good or all bad . I loved all the characetrs , from the girls rescued from a brothel to the ( GULP ! ) Night Walker . Move over , Lawrence Olivier in Henry V ( sorry ; I was just thinking of the most beautiful things I'd ever seen ) . There is a problem wih my DVD player , and I couldn't get the original soundtrack . I had no problems with the excellent actors in the English version ( I think the Japanese are second only to Bergman in dubbing ) , but having read the reviews , I will watch it in japanese tomorrow at my friend's house . LATER : The ENGLISH ( dubbed ) version is much better - - - because , first , the actors are all adequate to the task , but second , and more important , there is only so much subtitle you can fit on the screen at one time , and the subtitles to the Japanese version tend to be minimalist . The Japanese language is spoken rather quickly , and while the English-speaking actors could keep up , the subtitle-writers could not ( besides , they have to take the reading speed of the audience into consideration as well ) . . ( There have been movies where I have learned things from the subtitles that I hadn't even known were in the movies - - - this is NOT one of them ! ) You will learn a lot more of what's going on in the speech and thought of the characters - - unless you know Japanese - - if you watch the English language version .
• 077 4  This movie is brilliant ! One of the best Hisaya Morishige films . I have one suggestion though watch the Japanese version of the movie . The dialogue and the voices are SO much better then the english version !
• 079 4  This seems to be Miyazake's most personal work , clearly a serious design . It is set in an imaginary time which blends the time of the ancient gods ( Shinto style , gods of place and nature ) with the settlement of humans and the coming of metalworking and war . The world is not in balance , and a distant conflict between industry and nature has wounded one of the gods of the forest , which is then killed by a sentry boy as it rampages into farmland he guards . The evil controlling it transfers to him , beginning a slow takeover , and he must journey to the origin of the conflict to find a way to cure himself and incidentally , as he will learn , to try to restore balance . But this is not a simplistic tale , he finds there are other characters in play , and there is good and evil in everyone , and no easy balance . The Princess ( Hime ) of the story is a mysterious human who has been raised by wolves ( which are themselves powerful forest gods , a little reminiscent of the Amerindian Coyote myth ) , who becomes both his ally and his enemy . The story is not easy to understand . It has many Japanese mythic elements but even then , it is a work of Miyazake's unique imagination , and is not intended to be simple or to have a clean resolution . The animation is spectacular , and unusual , with new elements even for Miyazake and marks a new departure for style which you can see continued in his next film , Sen to Chihiro - more nature , more wild , more jamming on elements from Japanese myth and folklore . And , continuing the trend to be more personal , concerned with ethics and character , and less sci-fi . There are at least half a dozen well developed characters threaded through the story , and their animation is wonderful in displaying subtle character . The original Japanese soundtrack has some amazing singing and draws upon some of the best talent available for voices - in Japan , Miyazake is universally known and this was a masterpiece carefully crafted . Japanese television documented a lot of the production . The English translation drew on some good talent but they seem not to have gotten it quite so intensely as the Japanese crew . If you haven't seen Miyazake , give it a try ( but maybe look at Sen to Chihiro first , or even Laputa or Kiki's Delivery Service , for easier and lighter introduction to his work ) . Some say he is the Japanese Disney , but I don't like that . His work has a depth and sophistication that goes beyond Disney cute . There is no other animation like it . This is truly an adult work : children might like some of the visuals , but I doubt that many kids below teen age will have any idea what it is all about , and even adults will get more out of this each time you see it again .
• 080 4  First , let me warn parents that this movie is nothing like the usual Disney fare . There is violence that will be disturbing to younger children , and the story is complex on levels that will likely bore them . These are not negative things . This movie is simply made for adults . The movie itself develops a complex story in a strange fantasy world where technology and nature are locked in an endless struggle pitting nature-gods and demigods against mere humans equipped with weaponry . The main character in the film stands as a middle figure who has no ill will towards either side and seeks to bring the two into at least a truce . The images are stunning , and the sheer imagination necessary to create this magical world is breathtaking at times . The complexity of the problem is dealt with in a very balanced way , without demonizing one side or the other . This haunting movie stayed on my mind for a long time after I saw it , and caused me to think through issues of nature and technology , and where we fit into the world we live in and are responsible for . To anyone with a love for the visual and a desire to actually be challenged to think , this movie is a must see . I cannot recommend it highly enough .
• 083 4  This review is from : Princess Mononoke ( DVD ) I finally got to watch Princess Mononoke on DVD . I was blown away ! ! ! What can you say about Miyazaki that hasn't already been said ? Beautiful , breathtaking , fantastic , wonderous . . . etc ! ! ! I hope there are many more such films coming from the pen of this visionary of film . It is a must see for all fans of Japanime and especially of Miyazaki .
• 084 4  I finally got to watch Princess Mononoke on DVD . I was blown away ! ! ! What can you say about Miyazaki that hasn't already been said ? Beautiful , breathtaking , fantastic , wonderous . . . etc ! ! ! I hope there are many more such films coming from the pen of this visionary of film . It is a must see for all fans of Japanime and especially of Miyazaki .
• 085 4  This movie blew me away when I first saw it . The drawings ( 90% still drawn by hand and not with the help of a computer ) are very realistic and the characters are not too Japanese-looking , which is kinda strange sometimes . It is a fantasy story with Gods and Demons and sometimes reminded me a little of the Lord of the Rings , so if you like that kind of storylines and animation this movie is a must see , it's the most impressive Japanese animation I have ever seen . Voices are done by Claire Danes , Billy Bob Thornton and Minnie Driver as a Queen wanting to kill the Forest Gods . The most incredible creatures are little forest ' elves ' , small mushroomlike creatures with revolving heads and strange sounds . It is not for children ! Heads and arms are shot of and it's very bloody at times , so keep your young children away . Even I was impressed by the graphic scenes .
• 086 4  I just watched this movie the other night for the first time and was completely engrossed . The storyline simply draws you in from the first moment and keeps you there . Not only that , but the artistry is beyond stunning to look at . If you love a good story and / or you love animie , this is the movie for you . The only downside is that I would not let my 9 - year-old son watch it . I thought there would be parts in there that would be alittle too much for him . Just keep that in mind if you have kids around . They could easily identify with the main character . . . on some moments in the film that may be scary for younger kids .
• 087 4  The Movie was absolutely spectacular . I remember the first time I watched it at my house with a friend . It was on T.V . and we only saw the second half , ( May I remind you this Movie is very long and your butt will get sore , and that was just the first half . ) I was never a big fan of anime then . But this Movie totally blew me away . The only thing that threw me off was the boars in their demon form . ( Covered in vains or maggots and throwing up gallons of blood . ) I loved the design of the main characters and the fact that Miyazaki saw both sides of the enemies and made it so that no one was evil . You felt bad for both humans and animals . No bad guys . That's what American movies are all about . Any way I reccomend this and The Rurouni Kenshin OVA's and Spirited Away . I don't even watch Disney any more it lost its touch a long time ago . If you want twisted plots , memorable characters , and unexpected endings go for Anime !
• 089 4  This movie is 2hrs 13mins of pure art . I've never seen better animation than this . Breath-taking ! Visuals : 5 / 5 The music is wonderful . The voice acting is pretty good , but the japanese track is better . I'm grateful that they included both . Sound : 4 / 5 The characters are great . The storyline is deep . Story : 5 / 5 I've watched this movie countless times , and it still holds up . Overall : 5 / 5
• 090 4  Far too many people hear anime and automatically have some bad connotation . They think it's too childish or too mature . This movie is a great place to start , whether you want to see anime or are completely turned off by the genre . Why ? First , it was produced domestically by Disney , and you know they aren't going to put out something too racey or ridiculous . Second , the voices are people you know , like Gillian Anderson and Billy Bob Thornton ( and someone who sounds a lot like James Earl Jones ) . What else makes this so appealing ? Well , Billy Bob Thornton himself said that watching this , he forgot it was animated early into the movie . The story is also compelling , with a rather Lord of the Rings-esque fantasy appeal . The basic plot is that a boy must travel to find the Spirit of the Forest to have a curse removed from him . On the way , he comes across a mining town , and the story moves into a harmony with nature kind of message . Although it gets much more complicated , I'd prefer not to spoil too much of the movie . Besides the story and familliar voices , the animation in the movie is excellent . For those who have watched a fair amount of anime , it becomes obvious that there have been dramatic changes in quality over time . This move is recent enough that it has a high quality animation .
• 091 4  The artwork of this film is astonishing . Set primarily in the forests of ancient Japan , the scenery is lush with life , vivid with depth and detail . The scenery is in some cases so gorgeous it will take your breath away . But the story , too , stands out from the crowd . Written by Japanese director Hayao Miyazaki and adapted into English by writer Neil Gaiman , Princess Mononoke is the story Ferngully wanted to be . It tells of a great clash between humans and nature , with the animal gods and forest spirits rallying to stave off encroaching devasation . The archetypal figures , such as the Night Walker , are magnificent , but there are also the smaller gods and fey beings for a lighter touch .
• 093 4  This Dvd is clear and crisp with nice menu options . It gives info about the cast of characters . This movie is a stirring tale of a prince who must leave his kingdom after fighting a god turned demon which inflicts a powerful curse which will kill him . Along his way he runs into a monk and eventually ends up in a place called Irontown . Here he meets a wolfgirl named Mononoke . This is where the story really picks up . If I tell anymore it would be a spoiler for you . But I have to say this is by far one of my all time fav anime's that I own . The story is great , the voices very nicely chosen for the characters and a overall great DVD .
• 094 4  The movie is beautiful , with wonderful scenery . The story is not for little kids , although my five year old loves it . Unlike the more normal fare that kids are exposed to , in this movie there are no bad guys or ( all ) good guys . All of the characters have reasons for what they do , and all show signs of honor and courage . The fact that they are in conflict makes the story much more interesting . Watch the movie . Just because it's animated doesn't mean it's for kids .
• 095 4  This is a stunning masterpiece that never got the recognition here ( in the US ) that it deserved . With the depth of Shakespeare , Yoji Matsuda has given us a story that puts shades of gray on Good and Evil . No one character can be labelled all good or all evil , as they decide how their actions will affect the outcome of their world . The world of Nature is pitted against the world of Man , and the ultimate battle ensues ! Gorgeous forests and landscapes are the setting as the prince leaves his own village in search of a cure . The music carries you away to believe in the story , set in medieval Japan . Children may enjoy the movie , but it was written for the enjoyment of adults ; a rarity in animated movies . At 2 hrs .15 min.long , you still want it to continue !
• 096 4  This was the first movie I ever owned on DVD I liked it so much . No matter how many times I watch it I sitll get chills , and I still hang on every word . The animation is clean , beautiful . The way the humans and animals move is quite subtle but when you pay attention to it , the level of work and thought is amazing . The story is chocked full of mysticisim , and is set in an age when man and beast lived side by side , and thier tolerance of each other is growing weaker and weaker day by day . The most amazing thing about the story is the complexity of all the characters . not a single one could be placed into a stereotype , Goodguy , badguy , clown . . . whatever . . . They all have a degree of complexity to them that can make a viewer love and hate them at the same time . . . All the characters have a goal , even if it means going against each other , but each of them have very valid reasons and are not evil for what they seek . Oh yea , A great score too , the orchestration really accentuates the plot and amplifies the characters emotions without being too distracting , which is a nice change .
• 097 4  This review is from : Princess Mononoke ( Dub ) [ VHS ] ( VHS Tape ) I'll admit it . I've never liked anime , even before it became the craze it is now . When I heard about Princess Mononoke , I just shrugged it off and rolled my eyes . Gradually , as I began to hear more about it , I developed a curiousity for it . When I heard it was playing on Starz , I decided it would be a good chance to try it ; after all , it was free . - This movie blew me away . - The animation is superb ( being an animation major in college , I'm picky about those things ) , the storyline interesting , and every shot was beautiful . My younger sister and I originally were watching it to make fun of it ( as we do with many anime shows and movies ) but we ended up loving the movie far more than we ever imagined . I loved the movie for the animation and the storyline ( I am very into earth-based spirituality ) and my sister loved the characters , especially the little Kodamas ( tree-spirits ) If you're looking for a serious , inspirational animated movie , then look no further . Princess Mononoke is all that and much much more . I'm glad I forced myself to watch it that one time , otherwise I would have missed out on one of the greatest movies I have ever had the pleasure of seeing .
• 098 4  I'll admit it . I've never liked anime , even before it became the craze it is now . When I heard about Princess Mononoke , I just shrugged it off and rolled my eyes . Gradually , as I began to hear more about it , I developed a curiousity for it . When I heard it was playing on Starz , I decided it would be a good chance to try it ; after all , it was free . - This movie blew me away . - The animation is superb ( being an animation major in college , I'm picky about those things ) , the storyline interesting , and every shot was beautiful . My younger sister and I originally were watching it to make fun of it ( as we do with many anime shows and movies ) but we ended up loving the movie far more than we ever imagined . I loved the movie for the animation and the storyline ( I am very into earth-based spirituality ) and my sister loved the characters , especially the little Kodamas ( tree-spirits ) If you're looking for a serious , inspirational animated movie , then look no further . Princess Mononoke is all that and much much more . I'm glad I forced myself to watch it that one time , otherwise I would have missed out on one of the greatest movies I have ever had the pleasure of seeing .
• 099 4  This movie is a masterpiece , beautiful animation and compelling storyline . I'd recommend it to any anime fan or anyone who is interested in the Japanese culture . I feel that this film has been sadly overlooked because it's just dismissed as kid's stuff . I've heard complaints from parents about the film's violence , but that problem could have been solved by looking at the PG - 13 label on the DVD . Even though the film comes close to 3 hours , that's the way Japanese story telling is . The reason why I recommended this to anyone interested in the Japanese culture is that they know that the Japanese like long drawn out stories and us Americans want the movie to get to the point . This movie also has a lot of symbolism so watch out for that . This movie was so moving that I actually cried at the end . This is a must-see . . .
• 100 4  I have just watched this movie , and I am writing this review while I'm still full . This movie is truly uplifting , both content and animation-wise . It describes the struggle of the creatures of the forest , to save their home , to save the trees and the animals . This struggle is a metaphor of today's industrial age , where man tries to find a balance between continued development , and environment . In my opinion , Mononoke was characterized masterfully , and induces instant sympathy ( at least , it did for me ) . The animation is superb ; if you don't have any anime in your DVD / VHS collection , let this be the representative of the genre . I know I am very proud to own the DVD , which I will always like to watch again . To borrow a phrase from the movie , watch with unclouded eyes , and it will blow you away . One last word : this anime is NOT intended for children . It requires a grown-up person to understand it , and quite frankly , I am afraid not even all the adults will grasp the true meaning of this fable .
• 101 4  Oh my God This film is the most beautiful , emotionally moving film I have ever seen . Words do not begin to describe just how deeply this movie will emotionally cut you . You will laugh , and cry , experience shock and horror , and do it all through experiencing the magnificent characters . The literary themes of man v . nature man v . man , nature v . nature , and man v . self , are all laid out in a form worthy of a shakesperian play . The script was penned into english by Neil Gaiman , author of the sandman series of comics by D.C . This film is the most view-worthy film of the decade , and I would reccomend it to anyone . Everything from the Beautiful artwork , to the quiet characterization of characters like Yakul , Ashitaka's giant red elk . It is worth every penny and would be if it cost 1,000,000 , dollars . Please watch this there are values in it that we can all benefit from . - Matthew Richard .
• 102 4  From the creative mind of Hayao Miyazaki , veritable George Lucas of the Eastern world , comes an animated film that is right out of ancient legend itself . It follows the journey of a young prince in Japan who is in a clan being hunted down by the Yamato government regime . He is attacked by a demon , and the wise woman of his village tells him that he must leave and travel to the West . Once he does , all Hell breaks loose . This film is a highly metaphorical tale for today , essentially being about the conflicts between industrialism and mystisicm . I do not reccomend this to children despite it's mild PG - 13 rating due to graphic gore and content ( Although done in a completely non-mindless way , only to help progress a story ) . If you are an anime fan , I guarantee this will be your favorite movie from now on .
• 106 4  This has to be one of the best movies I've seen in a long time and definitely better than Disney . I'm buying it as soon as I have a DVD player and it comes out . It has beautiful animation , a great story dealing with traditional , universal themes , and good English dubbing . The only thing that would make it better is if the DVD is released with the original Japanese as well .
• 107 4  Princess Mononoke is an utter marval and their will never be another film like it . It deals about a subject that few films ever do-the effect that we have on nature and it on us . this is explaining the film on the simplest scale . it may be animated but the characters and settings become as real as you or me . Because Hayao Miyazaki made it in a way that the animation is not the primary goal of the film . It accomplishes what most movies try to do it sends a message and it does it with flowing ease . It is complex , but that's what makes it so great . Rarely have I seen such great and thought out storytelling . Princess Mononoke is a flawless film that has and is what all films should be-a story told to send a message in an amazing and breathtaking way . their is no way this wonderous film could have been made live action or any other way you can think of . When the film is over and the credits begin-you sit their is awe , amazment , and silence until the credits are over . then you think i have never seen anything like it and I want to see it again . I hope more of Hayao Miyazaki's films are dubbed into English . The score is beyond words-I hope to hear more from the composer . Princess Mononke is the most wonderous film ever created and it should have been nominated for best picture !
• 111 4  This is a beautiful film in every sense - - the look , the feel , the sound , the plot , the message . . . one of Miyazaki's best . While _ Spirited Away _ got a lot of press ( what with the Oscar's and all ) , this earlier film deserves even more praise . With all the other reviews , I don't need to get into too much detail , but one note - - it may be animated , but it isn't for all children . Some of the action scenes and fantasy animals will scare kids . All in all , one of my favorite films and one I recommend to everyone .
• 112 4  This movie means something special to me . It first kicked off my anime mania when I saw it released in theators back in middle school . Upon buying it 2 years ago , I continue to watch it every now and then and each time is special and I learn something each time . I have also watched this with my family and friends who enjoyed this film , despite it being anime , alot . As well , the soundtrack is absolutely gorgeous much like Miyazaki's lush enviroments , storytelling , and characters . A masterpiece .
• 113 4  It had a good story about with some strong themes . Predominating themes were love , honor , man vs . nature and nature vs . machines . The art was beautiful . There were some elements of comedy , and of course the gore ( oh , there goes that man's arm ! ) . The movie is essentially about a man who kills a demon but gets infected by it . In his search to find where the demon originated , he becomes caught between two different worlds-nature's struggle against man , and the society where the people are good but are hurting the environment . Actually , for the movie to be called Princess Mononoke is a little strange , she's the secondary major character . It's more about the young man . Overall it was a good movie . I rented it first , which is what I would recommend with all Animes because everyone has different tastes .
• 114 4  It unapologetically shows decapitations and dismemberments , slaughter , betrayal and murder . Those blithely seeking cartoon pabulum will be shocked and offended . But if you are looking for provocative intelligent adult anime , then Princess Mononoke is like a sea wind blowing away the saccharine smog that smothers western animation . For one thing , it has no villains . This will confuse childish minds conditioned to expect not only good and bad in every movie , but to have the bad guys clearly labelled with black hats , scars and ugly sneers . For another , it doesn't hide its ambivalence with technology or its respect for nature . In fact , that is its thesis : how we lose our way when we reject our connection to the natural world . This will offend narrow minds who look upon any challenge to their anthropocentrism as anti-human or tree-hugging sentimentality . This film argues that evil is not so much the satanic absolute modeled in western tradition as it is an organic malady caused by pain and despair . We do not become evil because we are corrupted by some outside agency ; we become evil because we choose hatred over acceptance when confronted by the inevitability of death . How many western cartoons dare to tack into such philosophical winds ? Princess Mononoke punctures conventions . The princess of the title is a wolf-child saved from death as an infant by a wolf god and her pack . Now consider : in a western cartoon , the wolf pack would be a misunderstood and persecuted animal family too cute for words and too noble to stomach . In this movie , they are a snarling force of nature who do not hesitate to kill . However , they earn our sympathy because we understand that they are driven to kill both out of necessity and because it is their nature to do so . In a western cartoon , heroic animals would automatically mean casting their human opponents in the role of villains . But in Princess Mononoke , the humans compete for our sympathy because they too are convinced that they must destroy the wolves to ensure their own survival . In a western cartoon , the male hero would rescue the female heroine to live happily ever after . I won't spoil the ending , but consider how much more intelligent , more thoughtful and truer to character is the conclusion in this film . This juxtaposition of conflicting needs and loyalties , all with their own justifications , their own perspectives , and their own claims on our sympathies , combine to produce a richly textured world that is complex in scope and multifaceted in meaning . This film does not capitulate to simplistic solutions . Much of hard work and great beauty is destroyed in the end , but the film still concludes on a note of hope , with the thought that something of wisdom has survived all the death and destruction , and that nature recovers and humans rebuild , perhaps this time , avoiding the mistakes of the past . Like all of Miyazaki's works , he strives for significance over saccharine sentiment . His films are gourmet meals beside the candyfloss of western animation , and I feel a sense of intellectual satiation and fulfilment from Princess Mononoke that western animation rarely invokes . This is intelligent animation for intelligent adults . One need not agree with Miyazaki's world-view , but discerning viewers can't help admiring the beauty , the vitality and the intelligence of it .
• 115 4  Princess Mononoke is a nearly perfect anime , with brilliant visuals , dramatic but not distracting computer graphics , a great story which is not horribly compressed but allowed to unfold naturally in 134 minutes , and amazingly , a very good english version . This is the way every anime should be brought to DVD . An excellent cast of actors was used , although some will complain about how well these actors fit the parts , I think you have to accept that the English actors will have to be somewhat different if you go for big names and this doesn't necessarily make them worse . The script was translated very well and was rewritten in some places to account for cultural differences , resulting in one of the most natural and understandable english versions . The soundtrack to this movie also shines , featuring some simple but beautiful melodies and a mostly western classical score with some integration of eastern instruments . The visuals are the best you will see in an anime released in the US , period . Smooth , vibrant animation , some CG tricks and gorgeous depictions of the nature that the story takes place in . The DVD also has a few extra features : an interview with the cast and the trailer . The English and Japanese versions of the audio also correspond with the video in places where there is text onscreen , so if you pick Japanese audio , you will see the credits in Japanese , etc .
• 117 4  This review is from : Princess Mononoke ( DVD ) I first saw this masterpiece at a small theater which was 30 miles from my house . It was well worth the drive . This film keep captivated and kept me interested for the duration . It's no wonder that this smashed box office records in Japan ! The animation is spectular , the plot is fantastic , and even the dubbing ( which I am usually against ) was great ! I highly recommed this film to anyone . Don't let the fact that it's animated prevent you from watching it . I just wish that this DVD had a Japanese track ( with or without subtitles ) .
• 118 4  I first saw this masterpiece at a small theater which was 30 miles from my house . It was well worth the drive . This film keep captivated and kept me interested for the duration . It's no wonder that this smashed box office records in Japan ! The animation is spectular , the plot is fantastic , and even the dubbing ( which I am usually against ) was great ! I highly recommed this film to anyone . Don't let the fact that it's animated prevent you from watching it . I just wish that this DVD had a Japanese track ( with or without subtitles ) .
• 121 4  Like the most recent entries I to first saw Mononoke on Cartoon network last saturday . I had already owned Spirited Away ( seeing that also for the first time on cn about a month ago ) and I thought I would give it a shot after seeing on the sa Dvd that mononoke was supposed to be better . Well it did not lie . I had the movie recorded on vhs but I rather own the movies instead of having choppy commercails in them . I plan to see the last two movies before I buy them but I'll tell you one thing mononoke is already in my shopping cart . ( though I can't affrod to ask my dad to buy it yet after just buying spirited away ) AS for the descripition I'm not one for gooy romance sort of films I'd rather have romance be the frosting or sprinkles to any good movie or book . Mononoke is just my type I love action and adventure stuff ( my friends find it weird seeing as I'm a girl and should simply love romantic movies . four words yuck , way to mushy ) . Miyazaki is a pure genious ! Mononoke is about a boy who is attaked by a demon and gets fataly cursed . he heds west to try and find the spirit of the forest and beg it to lift the curse . That is basicly the jist of it with alot more details but you'll have to watch it . What's ironic is that as far as I can tell the name Princess Mononoke is only metioned once . the rest of the time she is called san ( though how you spell it I have no idea ) . Over all this movie , though bloody hence pg - 13 , it has to be the best animated film I have ever seen . I will say once again Miyazaki is a genius . You've got to buy this I know I am . Oh ! and for the people who think this is to gory and not for little kids . Hello ! ! It is PG - 13 . they don't rate just for fun !
• 122 4  After hearing Roger Ebert and others rave about Miyazaki I finally broke down and bought Princess Mononoke , and I'm glad I did . This movie is very well done . The animation is quality , with beautifully detailed backgrounds . The plot is unique and very original ; Miyazaki's emphasis on nature as a character is new to Americans , but the story is very good and will hold your attention all the way through . I have had difficulty getting into anime in the past , but Miyazaki's quality level is so high it makes his movies a pretty safe bet for anyone . One other thing , although there is no profanity or nudity in this film , it is probably not suitable for very young children ; there are some battle scenes where people get limbs cut off . The battles are part of the plot and thus the violence is not gratuitous , but none the less you might wait until your kids are a little older to let them watch it .
• 123 4  Princess Mononoke is an amazing movie . I've had a love hate relationship with anime over the years . At times I've seen some great ones , like Sprited Away , and then gone out looking for more and been disappointed with a lot of silliness . This film , though , is another great version of Japanese anime for an adultish audience . This is not for small kids . It's complex , at times gruesome , and much of the imagery and lore will be very unfamiliar to Western audiences . But that's what's so wonderful about it for the right audience . It's fantasy from an entirely different perspective , with spirits and talking animals and demons . There's also quite an anti-industrialization and pro-environmentalist message to this . Maybe none of the ingredients by themselves explain why this is so different and unusual . I think , really , it's that in the Western World so much of our reference points for fantasy come from Tolkein , CS Lewis , etc - writers who wrote inspired by an Anglo tradition . So we're use to certain types of wizards , obvious good and bad guys , heroic behaviour of a certain type . But with Japanese anime all bets are off . The reference points are entirely different , based in a different mythology . Viewers need to open their minds and just enjoy the wonder of a different worldview on fantasy . It won't be for everyone , but if this sounds at all interesting to you please check this out .
• 124 4  This review is from : Princess Mononoke ( DVD ) If you want to know about the plot , read the other reviews . If you want to know the effect on a guy who never watched Animes before , read on . Today I'm an Anime fan ! This is important , as I wasn't . No way could you to get me to believe in Animes . Then I watched Princess Mononoke ! It was over after that . I could not believe the style , sound , color , dub , and , most importantly for Animes , the plot . Everyone I show it to loves it . Even when I was watching it on my PC on a flight from Abu Dhabi to Amsterdam , the Stewardes and passengers stopped to ask what it was . Princess Mononoke is the highest standard in movie length Anime , even better than the excellent Oscar winning Spirited Away by the same director . If you want to find out if you like anime get this movie . Then , if you do , go on to the other anime series I found to be wonderful , such as Trigun Tenchi Full Medal Panic and GXP . Find your own and become a fan . It's so easy . Smiles
• 125 4  If you want to know about the plot , read the other reviews . If you want to know the effect on a guy who never watched Animes before , read on . Today I'm an Anime fan ! This is important , as I wasn't . No way could you to get me to believe in Animes . Then I watched Princess Mononoke ! It was over after that . I could not believe the style , sound , color , dub , and , most importantly for Animes , the plot . Everyone I show it to loves it . Even when I was watching it on my PC on a flight from Abu Dhabi to Amsterdam , the Stewardes and passengers stopped to ask what it was . Princess Mononoke is the highest standard in movie length Anime , even better than the excellent Oscar winning Spirited Away by the same director . If you want to find out if you like anime get this movie . Then , if you do , go on to the other anime series I found to be wonderful , such as Trigun Tenchi Full Medal Panic and GXP . Find your own and become a fan . It's so easy . Smiles
• 126 4  After I watched trailer and read different customers reviews on this web-site , I decided to rent it first . There are several reasons why , after renting it , I decided to buy it for my home collection : 1 ) Quality of picture . I was impressed the way this cartoon is created . There is no computer enhancement - just pure paint works with wonderful vivid colours . I enjoyed watching beautiful landscapes and realistic characters . 2 ) A story . After watching Tokyo Godfathers and Spirited Away , I realized that Japanese animated stories are always unique , interesting and catching . I wasn't bored a second ! Even though there is some violence , the main themes of the movie are love , support and kindness . 3 ) Music . The music for this movie is composed by the acclaimed Japanese composer Joe Hisaishi . Based on the score for this movie , Joe Hisaishi released a separate symphonic suite . The main theme of the movie is a popular hit in Japan ; it is being played or sung by various artists . I can watch this movie several times , as I like quality of animation , the story and the music . This DVD includes a version of the movie dubbed in French . As I learn French I think I have an excellent chance to learn it with such a pleasant DVD ! Conclusion : I made a good investment buying this product . There aren't many quality animations on the market . This one is a gem that I didn't want to miss .
• 127 4  I agree with the people who say this movie is good for not having a clear evil side . Yes , it takes some imagination on the part of the viewer , but it is a true masterpiece . Never before this have I seen a movie where there really was no clear good side . Great for people who like to think metephorically , or fantasy fans like myself .
• 129 4  This is one of the best films I've ever seen . For those of you who like fantasy and adventure you will be glued to the screen for the duration . The action is non-stop and full of suprises . There are many compelling characters , the sound track is excellent and the story is top notch . The film opens when the last young warrior called Ashitaka of a village notices something unusual in the woods approaching his village . Some sort of mysterious beast makes himself known and begins to attack Ashitaka and begins chasing him . This is no ordinary beast , it appears to change form and consists of a bunch of worm-like creatures . Everything in its path is destroyed with ease . While Ashitaka tries to defend his village , he manages to shoot the beast with two arrows which eventually incapacitate it , but not without a cost . While Ashitaka was defending his village and attempting to keep the beast away , some of the worm-like creatures grab hold of his arm and cause him great pain leaving an unusual scar . Later , after consulting with the wise woman of the village , Ashitaka is informed that he has been cursed by an evil spirit and is in grave danger . There is however one chance of him curing himself . To cure himself , he must travel to a far away land and find the great benevolent spirit of the forest . On his journey to finding the great spirit , he faces many trials and tribulations , meets friend and foe but most of the people he meets are consumed with anger and hate which makes it all the more difficult and adds an element of complexity to the story . The film makes two very powerful points about man and his quest to dominate nature and about the consuming and destructive power of hate and anger . The destruction of nature can only lead to man's own destruction and anger merely fuels more anger and hate which if not stopped will completely consume the individual .
• 134 4  I abosolutally loved this movie , the message inside is far beyond any delivered in some time . The Dvd itself is not quite as exsqisuite , but still I thinks it's worth every sent .
• 135 4  I have adored this movie ever since I frist saw it about 3 years ago . This is an enchanting epic story that has it all - - action , adventure , romance , man against nature , and mythology . I showed this movie to my little brothers ( 8 and 11 at the time ) , and they couldn't get enough of it . I think every true anime fan owes it to themselves to see this movie at least once .
• 138 4  This movie has tremendous impact . . . . . spiritually , emotionally and portrays the wisdom of innocence . It's difficult to describe this masterpiece because it conveys so many simple , yet powerful messages . . . . that it's best to watch it and feel it's beauty . Definitely in my Top 10 list of all time great movies ! See it ! !
• 139 4  To those in the know , Hayao Miyazaki is more than just a master of anime ( Japanese animation ) , he is a truly great artist who transcends cultural and genre boundaries to explore universal themes with surprising depth and subtlety . Those who appreciate drawn art ( comics , animation ) but are unfamiliar with Miyazaki , you are in for a real treat ! For those who don't get the medium , no amount of gushing will persuade - - your loss , but know this : Miyazaki infuses all of his work with the soul of a poet and his work can often be quite moving . Like much of his other work , Princess Mononoke is for older children and adults , not for unsuspecting toddlers . The themes explored are dark and disturbing - - and highly relevant to these times . There is violence depicted . But in an age dominated by Disney pap and a veritable wasteland of inane TV cartoons , Princess Mononoke is a refreshing alternative boasting gorgeous character animation , spectacular background art , and a storyline of substance that will reward the attentive viewer with inspiring stimulation of heart , mind , and soul .
• 141 4  This is no regular comercial anime . This is a movie to enjoy , with animation to enjoy , with music to enjoy , with a story to enjoy . This is a tale about a quest for the truth , about facing our destiny , a story to find out that hate that cames from humans , animals and gods , could destroy life . . . and death . It could be enough to say that this movie got more money than Episode I in Japan . Is a long and slow story , filled with real truths , where you can feel the sights of the landscapes , where no one is completely evil or good . A journey through the Japanese mythology , with a great english track that captures the real sense of the traditions , keeping the story intact . This dvd features the literal translation , for those who would like to enjoy the original japanese wording . Great sound . There are just two additional features : a featurette that only shows some comments from the english dubbers , and a trailer . Anyway , just to watch the movie is worth the price . If you are looking for fast paced figths , or short skirted girls , don't buy it .
• 143 4  This movie in short is brilliant . Im sure a hundred other people have given their synopsis of this movie . Im just here to add my name to the extremely long list of people who only have praise for this movie . I loved the story , the atmosphere , the setting , and most of all the characters . The worst thing about the movie is that it ends . : (
• 144 4  This has got to be the greatest full-length Anime movie ever . I watched it three times in a row . But , I have a few problems with it , #1 Is it just me , or is it kind of hard to hear most of the animal gods when they talk ? #2 I really wish they made a special edition DVD , I need more extras ! Were's the commentary's ? Why isn't there a behind the scenes , ( The Featurette doesn't do anything ) And #3 , Why wasn't it nominated for anything ? Oh well , it's still a great movie , and if you know me , I reccommend watching this late at night .
• 146 4  I really enjoyed this movie . I had been waiting a long time to see this movie and I'm glad that I did . The animation was superb , the plot was excelent , and the characters were great . There were awsome battle sences and even a bit of romance . The only proplem was that there were barely any special features on the DVD . When I get a DVD I always look foward to the special features . Besides that everything was perfect . I wouldn't reccomend this movie for young children because it contains mild language , violence , blood , and some scary sences .
• 147 4  This review is from : Princess Mononoke ( DVD ) This fast-moving , inspiring animation is really a new art form . Miyazaki takes animation to a new level by weaving philosophic debates about human excesses in uses of natural resources with fantastic battle scenes , romance and honor . The animism of Japanese religions comes to life in the form of great animal Gods as they compete with humans for space on the planet . But like other Japanese productions , no one is protrayed as truly evil and there are no guys in white . The boar God is portrayed as stubborn and the would-be evil woman shows compassion to leppers . Overall , the movie makes not so sublte statements about a mulitude of social subtlies . A great piece of work and a great way to learn Japanese .
• 148 4  This fast-moving , inspiring animation is really a new art form . Miyazaki takes animation to a new level by weaving philosophic debates about human excesses in uses of natural resources with fantastic battle scenes , romance and honor . The animism of Japanese religions comes to life in the form of great animal Gods as they compete with humans for space on the planet . But like other Japanese productions , no one is protrayed as truly evil and there are no guys in white . The boar God is portrayed as stubborn and the would-be evil woman shows compassion to leppers . Overall , the movie makes not so sublte statements about a mulitude of social subtlies . A great piece of work and a great way to learn Japanese .
• 151 4  This movie takes the word Cartoon out of your vocabulary , when describing Anime and related films . Princess Mononoke is a visually stunning movie , with very Realistic scenes that make you understand what all the fuss is about , with this form of animation . The techniques used in the creation of this film give respect to the Artist ( s ) the story gives a respectful nod to Pagan motifs . The Story and Artistic Wonder of this movie will bring many people to Anime , who have not given it a try , before . This is definately a Cross-Genre movie , with something for everyone . I will never forget the beautiful , fantastic scenes and Graceful Flowing of the Imagery ! ! ! I was not interested in Anime , until my fiance ' and I watched this Adventure , together . . . . then , I was hooked . However , once you have seen this movie , most animation seems of a lesser standard and doesn't give you the same Impact ! It's like gaining Knowledge , once you acquire it , you cannot go-back . . . . So , hope that the Anime Artists continue their work support their endeavors ! I recommend this one for Adults , not just Children !
• 154 4  Princess Mononoke is the kind of bedtime story you always wanted to be told as a child but never were . It is by far and away the most beautifully animated FILM ( not cartoon ) ever made and if this doesn't change your acceptance level of animated films as ' real ' movies , nothing will . The story is very mythological in it's aspirations but never loses it's very strong conviction that man and nature MUST co-exist in order for the planet to survive . It's exquisite translation by DC comics scribe Neil Gaiman ( of The Sandman fame ) helps maintain the deeply emotional and thoughtprovoking nature of the original Japanese script while the voice acting ( by the likes of Billy Crudup , Minnie Driver , Claire Danes , Billy Bob Thorton , and Gillian Anderson ) is perfectly dead-on and expressive . The whole film just shines with high-production values and never - not even for a second - bores the eye . It's bright and colorful enough for the kids to gawk at while adults can immerse themselves in the philosophical aspects of the story and the truly touching love story . I'd dig deeper into the story but I perfer not to . This is one film you should watch knowing absolutely nothing about . Just sit back and allow yourself to be surprised by this truly ingenious and elegant piece of visual art . A masterpiece .
• 155 4  If you thought Tarzan and The Iron Giant were wonderful DVD transfers , you will not go wrong with Princess Mononoke . This DVD is BY FAR the best transfer I've seen for an animated feature . The anamorphic widescreen transfer is about as flawless as you'll see - no artifacts , no edge enhancement . . . absolutely squeaky clean . The colors are striking ; I found myself noticing this many times during the movie . The audio in both the original Japanese and the English dub are both 5.1 with a full field of sound for the entire feature . I switched back and for the between the two audio formats and found little , if any , compromise ( not an easy task since you can't simply toggle the audio button - you must go back to the menu ) . The extras are minimal , containing a brief featurette with the various voice actors praising the movie ( although I don't think Claire Danes clearly understands that this wasn't a little kiddy cartoon ) , but I didn't purchase this disc for the extras . As a review said earlier , thus is truly a DVD to show off the home theater system . Not only is it a great animated feature ; it's also a great movie . If you've feared anime in the past , this is one to take the plunge with - you won't be disappointed .
• 156 4  Generally I dislike Japanese anime films . I suppose this is due more to my own misinformation about the genre as well as the incomprehesible success of the Pokemon phenomena and its ilk . However there are two anime films that I have included on my personal list of truly great cinema ; the first is Isao Takahata's powerful anti-war film Grave of the Fireflies and the second is Hayao Miyazaki's Princess Mononoke . The film contains some of the most impressive and visually stunning images in an animated feature ( or even a live action film for that matter ) that I have seen in a very long while . But make no mistake , this is no family fun Disney film . The story and its themes are quite complex and you will have to have an above average attention span to fully appreciate it ( a little background in Japanese mythology couldn't hurt either ) . While I have a long ways to go before I could call myself an anime fan , films such as Princess Mononoke have demonstrated to me what the genre is capable of and I look forward to seeing other films by Mr . Miyazaki and other filmakers of his caliber .


• 108 4  It's a shame that big company movies get all the public attention with the action figures and the fast food and the millions in promotion . The fact is that most of them are bad , and just made to sell and make money off of . This movie is better then any dinsey movie , the landscapes and animation are amazing , and the plot is engrosing . It was playing localy for a while , I saw it twice . I hope it comes out on VHS for those of us who don't have a DVD player . If there is any way you can see this movie , do it .
• 051 4  This is the best anime movie I've ever seen , but DO NOT get the VHS ! The tape has Macro Vision . It can mess up the screen . The whole show , the top ( and sometimes bottom ) inch or so of the screen will be freaking out and it CAN'T be fixed with tracking . You might also hear a lot of static . It isn't as bad on the better quality VCRs , but this happens on all of them . Get the DVD ! It has language choices and subtitles , and ( right now ) is like $80 cheaper !


• Don't mistreat nature . I don't know , that doesn't sound anti-human at ALL . Second of all , I read a couple of reviews that say it's too violent , well , it's rated PG 13 , so to the people who show their 7 year-olds this movie and say it's too violent - - well read the rating and make sure your child is mature enough to watch this movie . This movie did not disgust me at ALL . Sure the boars do look ugly , but that's to show how one-sided they are . Now on to the review . Animation : Superb Dubbing : No anime's dubbing is too good , but this one is pretty nice Plot : Here is the movie's strong point Creativity : Definitely There are tons of reviews that tell the story , so I'll skip it . The animation as I said is superb from the character's facial expressions to their body language it's all done masterfully . The backgrounds are as impressive from the smallest leaf to the largest river they're all done in incredible detail . The movie is definitely creative , there are little glowing clicking beings ( I forget what they're called ) , also the NightWalker is a most fascinating creature . With the plot , you might think it's over , but then BAM something changes . Also , what some call the boring parts are to build the characters , plot , and frequently give hints on what's going to happen next . As I said earlier , I think it leaves us wondering why we're doing what we are doing to the environment . The dubbing , well , it isn't necessarily bad , but let's face it no anime's dubbing is particularly memorable . So , all in all this is an Anime classic please , do yourself a favor and watch Princess Mononoke .
• 002 4  It is difficult to be profound about a movie that has been written about so much . Much of which has been written is rather obvious . Hayao Miyazaki's Princess Mononoke , although it is an adult oriented film in terms of complexity , it has something for everyone . Princess Mononoke is appealing on many levels because much like other anime features like Armitage III , Ghost in the Shell , and Akira , Princess Mononoke also confronts the issue of technology head on . However , what is unique here is that Miyazaki problematizes the duality of man vs . nature really expanding the problem to man within nature and calling for a sense of co-operation . Again , While other movies like Armitage III , Ghost in the Shell , and Akira are a shade darker than most , Mononoke is laced with hope and reconstruction . Based on our epistemological framework we are looking for good vs . evil . We are always trying to set things up in a space of binary oppositions . Most viewers are looking to make things simple . Juxtaposed against our longing for the simplistic , Miyazaki doesn't make judgements about good or evil . Miyazkai simply asks many questions . It is really unfair to make any direct comparison but the reason this genre is appealing to a wider audience is that this genre and the movies that are produced within it are more realistic than the more common Disney animations offerings . Another sub-theme is the healing power of nature which is superior to the human need to conquer and control . Susan Napier writes : At a more complex level , films such as Princess Mononoke actually works to resist and even confront certain public stereotypes , inspiring huge numbers of moviegoers to look at some of the myths of modern Japan in a more critical way . The movie zeroes in on ecological issues , a far cry from the stereotypes we have of Japan as a giant impersonal machine . Along this same lines , the big four ( listed previously ) warn us just as much about the march of modernity and technology . In Princess Mononoke , it seems like Miyazaki is setting up a battle between man and nature . My sense is that it is man in nature . No doubt , this is a complex movie . The interplay between Asitaka , Mononoke and Lady Eboshi is not a simple one . Within the confines of the story , no one character is all bad or all good . All the characters are multi-dimensional and not one character is a caricature . A pivotal character is Lady Eboshi . Lady Eboshi's involvement with Iron Town is not be dismissed as trivial . How is the viewer going to reconcile Lady Eboshi's agenda and altruism ? The beauty and wonder of Princess Mononoke is not so much that it provides answers but that it poses deep questions . For this reason alone ( and there are many ) Princess Mononoke can be classified as a work of art and it will survive the ravages of time . Miguel Llora
• 003 4  This Miyazaki movie is for keeps ! This is one of the few anime films from the many I have seen , that I will give a full 5 stars . You must give yourself a chance to see this movie at least once . I will definitely buy this DVD when it comes out . Plot is set in ancient mythological Japan where humans clash with humans and damages the environment . Great story , beautiful animation , very strong character development . Lots of action . You will see that a lot of work went into this film . Too bad , I can't recommend this for kids for all ages , maybe around 15 yrs up , but you parents will be the final judge . No nudity , but there are quite a few blood and violent scenes ( such as beheading ) . Don't get me wrong , the story does not really focus on the violence . Watch it and you will know what I mean . I sure hope the other Miyazaki Anime will be released on DVD soon ! ( Kiki's Delivery Service , My Neighbor Totoro , Nausicaa , etc . . . )
• 010 4  Okay let me get this out of the way , all you people talking about how anti-human this movie is , know what your talking about before you even think that . The movie sends no such message , it's a mythological story it's almost like this anime is teaching us a lesson : Don't mistreat nature . I don't know , that doesn't sound anti-human at ALL . Second of all , I read a couple of reviews that say it's too violent , well , it's rated PG 13 , so to the people who show their 7 year-olds this movie and say it's too violent - - well read the rating and make sure your child is mature enough to watch this movie . This movie did not disgust me at ALL . Sure the boars do look ugly , but that's to show how one-sided they are . Now on to the review . Animation : Superb Dubbing : No anime's dubbing is too good , but this one is pretty nice Plot : Here is the movie's strong point Creativity : Definitely There are tons of reviews that tell the story , so I'll skip it . The animation as I said is superb from the character's facial expressions to their body language it's all done masterfully . The backgrounds are as impressive from the smallest leaf to the largest river they're all done in incredible detail . The movie is definitely creative , there are little glowing clicking beings ( I forget what they're called ) , also the NightWalker is a most fascinating creature . With the plot , you might think it's over , but then BAM something changes . Also , what some call the boring parts are to build the characters , plot , and frequently give hints on what's going to happen next . As I said earlier , I think it leaves us wondering why we're doing what we are doing to the environment . The dubbing , well , it isn't necessarily bad , but let's face it no anime's dubbing is particularly memorable . So , all in all this is an Anime classic please , do yourself a favor and watch Princess Mononoke .
• 036 4  I watched this movie 8 times ( which is a lot for me ) and i was like , awesome . I wanted to buy it , and some guy said that you can only order it now . . . . Okay , okay , I'll ge to the point , all my brothers like it.My parents like it too.My younger brother may have only seen it 5 times , but he can recite a lot of parts . I give this a full 5 star rating.No character is pure evil or purely good.There are demons and gods ( i luv mivies like that ! ) . If everyone would give it a chance , I be it would become their favorite too.And I truly AM a fanatic.All i want to do now is find the manga . . .
• 050 4  I am 12 years old and I saw Princess Mononoke with my dad in Berkely.My dad even loved it ! His favorite part was when the kodama mimiced Ashitaka.He also liked the way the kodama communicated.I loved the whole movie in general.I think Hayao Miyazaki's films are all the greatest ! The dubbing was especially good.The words all syncrinized with the lips.This is the greatest action movie I have ever seen !
• 062 4  During the first few minutes begins a graphic journey of an incredible , and somewhat violent movie . My children were hooked , and I was a little disturbed . But as expressed by one of the other reviewers , this movie has a message to all , which I explained to a couple of my children who didn't understand it . It was about the mistreatment and abuse of nature . Once I understood the underlying message ( when I had the time to sit through a portion of the film ) I watched it again and realized what a creative and brilliant movie this was . Not for all children as it is violent .
• 064 4  Hayao Miyazaki is amazing . He can direct offbeat , intimate masterpieces like * My Neighbour Totoro * and masterpieces of epic proportions like * Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind * ( one my favorite ten movies of all times ) . * Princess Mononoke * belongs to the latter category : it is a mythical allegory of man's relationship with nature , set in a medieval Japan filled with talking beasts , strange fairies with rotating heads , mystical deer and animal corpses animated by energetic , wriggling maggots . I have always found that the better a movie is , the more speechless it will leave me . I once started writing a review for another of Miyazaki's masterpieces , * Kiki's Delivery Service * , but I never posted it because I was so intensely moved by his genius that I was not able to say anything articulate about it . This is sad , because I consider very few films to be as deserving of a good review as * Kiki * . So I will let the five stars do their work of recommendation , and merely say that I personally consider Miyazaki ( together perhaps with King Hu ) the greatest moviemaker ever , and * ¨ Princess Mononoke * one of his highest achievements .
• 088 4  I originally saw Princess Mononoke when a friend said she had it and she wanted me to see it . I was skeptical at first but when I saw the movie I was in awe . The story is a mythological story with unforgettable images . The characters are great because they have a realistic human element . No one is truly good or evil . The townspeople of Iron town are fun . My favorite is the ex-hooker Toki ( Jada Pinkett-Smith ) . I love this movie and I think anyone who gives it a chance could love it as much as I do .
• 142 4  if you do not own this , buy it , steal it , just get it . Mononoke Hime is one of those true classics , like Ghost in the Shell or Akira . The animation is absolutely beautiful and this is a movie that will stay with you forever . I personally have watched it over and over and I can't get enough of it . If you like a beautiful story , amazing animation and want to be entertained and challenged get this movie . I have yet to meet someone who does not like it . It's a true gem . AH ( Illustrator )