Clan and character notes donated by Jessi.
A cursed prince seeks a cure in the forest, finding himself caught between the gods of nature and humans destroying the land.
Princess Mononoke is Hayao Miyazaki's epic tale set in medieval Japan. Prince Ashitaka, cursed by a demon, journeys west seeking a cure and becomes entangled in a war between the supernatural guardians of the forest and the humans of Iron Town consuming its resources. He meets San, a human girl raised by wolves who fights to protect the forest. A powerful environmental fable exploring the complex relationship between humanity and nature, featuring stunning animation and a morally nuanced story.
Production context, airing history, and cultural significance
Princess Mononoke (Mononoke Hime) is a Studio Ghibli film directed by Hayao Miyazaki. Released in 1997, it became the highest-grossing film in Japan until Titanic, and a landmark of animation.
Contains some graphic violence and intense scenes; recommended for older children and adults.
Yes, Princess Mononoke is a highly acclaimed feature film produced by Studio Ghibli and directed by Hayao Miyazaki.
In Japanese, 'Mononoke' refers to a spirit, supernatural being, or phantom. In the context of the film, it is a nickname given by the humans of Iron Town to San, the human girl raised by wolves.
The film explores the complex, often destructive relationship between humanity and the environment. It avoids simple good-versus-evil tropes, showing the motivations and flaws of both the industrializing humans and the gods of nature.
The epic musical score for Princess Mononoke was composed by Joe Hisaishi, a long-time collaborator of Hayao Miyazaki.