Mononoke-hime (Princess Mononoke)

1997

Director: Hayao Miyazaki

Distributor: Studio Ghibli / Miramax

My Review:

This is my second favorite Anime movie – Also from Miyazaki.

The story is about two kids who fight to protect the wild, holy forest from people who want to kill the forest god and take control of its resources.

Typical of Anime films, the themes of this story focus on the importance of respect for the environment and anti-war/anti-hate messages of peace. Both good messages.

There’s just something about this all hand-drawn movie that is just brilliant. I really enjoyed watching it.

Trailer:



Quotes:

• In ancient times, the land lay covered in forests, where, from ages long past, dwelt the spirits of the gods. Back then, man and beast lived in harmony, but as time went by, most of the great forests were destroyed. Those that remained were guarded by gigantic beasts who owed their allegiances to the Great Forest Spirit, for those were the days of gods and of demons.
• These days, there are angry ghosts all around us. Dead from wars, sickness, starvation, and nobody cares. So - you say you're under a curse. So what, so's the whole damn world.
• To see with eyes unclouded by hate.
• Huh, I didn't know the Forest Spirit made the flowers grow.
• 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!
• It's over, the Forest Spirit is dead now.
  - Never. He is life itself. He is here with us now, telling us, it's time for both of us to live.
• The Forest Spirit gives life and takes life away. Life and death are his alone.
• Ashitaka... can you save the girl you love?

Stills: