Princess Mononoke (1997)
Animated storytelling perfected.
Presentation:
One of Hayao Miyazaki’s greatest films just behind Spirited Away but equally engrossing. This animated film looks timeless with a rich epic story. It has compelling leads, villains, visual design, complex storytelling, everything that makes cinema great. We have many elements that make Japanese film so great, spirits, fantasy dancing gracefully between the lines of family and adult animation. Miyazaki is truly a master of creating family films that appeal to children as well as adults. The film was created in the era of hand drawn anime that provide an immersive and organic experience.
Conclusion:
Wildly imaginative and entertainingly creative, Miyazaki delivers an anime epic worthy of cinema. It surpasses live action in many ways, taking full advantage of the medium that allows mystical and supernatural elements. And still, an epic in every sense of you’d expect, you’ll wish there was a sequel to continue on the story. But some things are too perfect and better left untouched.
Recommendations
Stepping stone for Studio Ghibli’s greatness.