Demons, forests, and spirits are all common in Princess Mononoke. Studio Ghibli included all of these things in their 1997 featured animation release. Miramax re-recorded the movie with world famous actors. However, the voice acting is not world class. Of all the actors, Billy Bob Thorton is the only one that face plants when it comes to acting. His monk character seems forced and boring, both of which detract from an otherwise excellent ensemble of actors and acting. This is the only weak part of Princess Mononoke.
To counter act this the animation steps in. Vivid colors, fluid movements, and a complete lack of awkwardness help keep the film excellent. Studio Ghibli has always featured excellent animation and Princess Mononoke is nothing short of stellar. Grass blows in the wind, rain darkens objects, and shadows correspond directly with the sun. An example of this animation occurs when the wolf pack attacks Lady Eboshi’s people. The wolf runs full speed while rain falls to the right. After being shot at, the wolf changes directions and the rain reflects this by falling to the right. Emotions are also easily noticed and are also shown in the backgrounds and settings.
Plot is also elegantly constructed. A demon gives Ashitaka a curse, and this remains a symbol throughout the entire movie. Forest spirits are ever present and complement the fantasy feel of the film. Characters are introduced and deepened. There are virtually no flat characters, as they are all developed. Motives behind the characters are conveyed through animations and dialogue. The storyline flows smoothly with a nice resolution at the end.
Character design is topnotch. Each character reflects his or her environment. Ashitaka has a hood and cloak made from straw, giving him an earth-tone look. San has a simple cloth skirt, with a necklace, reflected mystery. Eboshi has a red colored cloak with a wide brimmed hat, showing her foreign origins. The forest spirits are original, which is rare and appreciated in this age. Although each animal and spirit is a fantasy, they are drawn to reflect real world inspirations. The elk for example, is based on the Elk, but with larger horns thus creating the Red Horned Elk seen in the film. The head clicking tree spirits look like children, but with a twist for the head.
Music is nothing from short. French Horn solos are preformed excellently and reflect the atmosphere. A fully orchestrated soundtrack is perfection, even as a stand-alone piece. Fanfare blares for Eboshi and her guns, while melody plays for Mononoke and her wolves. Ashitaka has a pleasant mix of brass and strings, which plays with the idea of him as a man of peace. Rather than having one sections support him, he is supported by both, as though he is supportive of both Iron Town and the Forest.
Overall, Princess Mononoke should not be missed. An excellent ending closes the movie peacefully, and credits role with a mix of music. Bad voice acting for one character is not enough to bring down the full force of the movie. Action fans will dig the fights, while drama fans will enjoy the story. With a bit of fantasy thrown into the blend, Princess Mononoke is sure to have something for everone.
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