Princess Mononoke Review
Hayao Miyazaki is, without question, the most iconic anime director of all time. His visionary storytelling has redefined the genre, influencing countless animated projects. His films have also transcended the medium of animation, inspiring many live-action filmmakers. He remains the only anime filmmaker to win the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. Miyazaki is an undeniable legend, and one of his finest works, Princess Mononoke, is returning to UK cinemas—this time, for the first time ever, on IMAX screens. When I first watched this film, I was enveloped by a rush of wonder, awe, and magic. To now experience it on some of the largest screens imaginable will be nothing short of otherworldly.
The story follows Ashitaka (Billy Crudup), who, after battling a demon boar, is suddenly cursed. The curse infects his arm, and he is told it will slowly kill him. Seeking a cure, he journeys west, where he encounters a conflict between Princess Mononoke, San (Claire Danes)—a girl raised by wolves—and the people of Iron Town, who are destroying the nearby environment for resources. Seeing good in both sides, Ashitaka tries to reconcile their differences, but their escalating conflict threatens to change the world forever.
At its core, Princess Mononoke is a powerful meditation on environmentalism. Humanity has disrupted the natural order by destroying ecosystems and hunting animals for sport. Characters such as Jigo (Billy Bob Thornton) and Lady Eboshi (Minnie Driver) embody this mindset, aiming to kill the Forest Spirit. The film’s central message is clear: the greatest threat to our environment is humanity itself. Too often, the world is viewed as something to be controlled and exploited. While this message may seem bleak, Miyazaki delivers it with such beauty and magic that viewers cannot help but be swept away. It was a poignant message in 1997, and it remains just as relevant in 2025.
From the very beginning, Joe Hisaishi’s score proves to be stunning. Every musical cue is transcendent, transporting audiences into this wondrous, mystical world. The scene where the night-walker transforms into the Forest Spirit is a breathtaking visual moment, made even more powerful by the music. This soundtrack easily ranks among Hisaishi’s finest, standing alongside Spirited Away and Hana-bi.
Studio Ghibli’s distinctive visual style is unparalleled, and Princess Mononoke may well be their most visually impressive work to date. The depictions of demons and spirits are exquisite, crafting a fantasy world that, while evocative of others, remains entirely unique. The design of the Forest Spirit is particularly remarkable—especially when it transforms into the translucent night-walker, an awe-inspiring sight. The human characters are just as compelling, with San standing out as a visually striking and unforgettable figure. Whenever she appears on screen, her presence feels unlike any other in anime.
The English voice cast is also exceptional. Billy Crudup delivers a strong performance as Ashitaka, a young man navigating an unfamiliar world. However, the true standouts are Minnie Driver as Lady Eboshi and Claire Danes as San, both of whom convey the emotional core of the story with remarkable precision. Their performances are deeply impactful, breathing life into their characters in ways that feel visceral and authentic, even within such a fantastical setting. The supporting cast, including Billy Bob Thornton and Keith David, also deliver excellent performances.
Princess Mononoke is truly a once-in-a-lifetime film. Even with my highest expectations, it managed to surpass them. Visually breathtaking and sonically rich, it stands as an extraordinary, enchanting masterpiece.
★★★★★
Out Now in UK cinemas / Billy Crudup, Claire Danes, Minnie Driver, Billy Bob Thornton, Keith David / Dir: Hayao Miyazaki / Elysian / 12A
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