Princess Mononoke Returns in Glorious 4K IMAX This March!

Nearly 28 years following its initial release, Studio Ghibli’s timeless masterpiece, “Princess Mononoke” by Hayao Miyazaki, is making a comeback on the big screen. The beloved anime will be presented in IMAX format, and to enhance the experience even further, it has been meticulously restored in 4K resolution for a breathtaking, updated visual experience.

Studio Ghibli consistently creates timeless animated masterpieces, and Hayao Miyazaki’s oeuvre, which encompasses films like “Spirited Away” and “My Neighbor Totoro”, is particularly noteworthy. Among these gems, “Princess Mononoke” stands out as a strong front-runner for the best. The re-release of this historical fantasy anime offers an exceptional opportunity for fans to revisit the classic or discover it for the first time.

Princess Mononoke Is Coming To IMAX In 4K

GKIDS Celebrates Studio Ghibli’s 40th Anniversary

This year, “Princess Mononoke” will have an exclusive re-release in IMAX cinemas on March 26, marking Studio Ghibli’s 40th anniversary. The renowned distributor of anime in North America, GKIDS, is organizing this special screening. The film has undergone a fresh 4K restoration, supervised by Atsushi Okui, who has been involved with Ghibli films since “Porco Rosso.” IMAX has announced the re-release of “Princess Mononoke” on their social media platforms and begun ticket sales on their website. You can find showtimes for both the Japanese and English versions of the movie.

Two fresh posters have been unveiled to mark this unique event for the movie. One poster offers a tightly framed, intimate view of San’s distinctive red mask, embedding a delicate collage of movie elements within it. The second poster showcases San standing beside Moro, her adoptive wolf mother, against a vast forest landscape – which serves as the core setting for the film’s narrative. Furthermore, a promotional video clip has been produced specifically for this re-launch.

What Is Princess Mononoke About?

Film Princess Mononoke
Director Hayao Miyazaki
Original Release 1997
Studio Studio Ghibli
Distributor GKIDS
Languages
  • Japanese (with subtitles)
  • English (dub)
Visual Upgrade 4K Remastered For IMAX
Re-Release Date March 26, 2025

The tale of “Princess Mononoke” follows the adventure of a young warrior named Ashitaka, who embarks on a quest to discover a remedy for a lethal affliction he has acquired. Throughout his travels, he encounters San, a girl brought up by wolves, the inhabitants of Iron Town led by Lady Eboshi, along with numerous animal deities and woodland spirits – all embroiled in a prolonged, violent struggle. Ashitaka must find means to halt the fighting, bring peace back, and safeguard the forest, all while contending with his deteriorating health condition.

Fundamentally, “Princess Mononoke” delves into topics related to environmentalism and the ongoing struggle between humans and the natural world. The movie breathes life into nature by portraying it as divine entities, including the Deer God, Okkoto the boar god, and Moro the wolf goddess. Yet, it does not dismiss human development outright, understanding that while technological growth is essential, it often comes at a cost – the depletion of natural resources. Ashitaka acts as a peacemaker between humanity and nature, striving to preserve equilibrium between the two entities.

Why Is Princess Mononoke A Masterpiece?

The Studio Ghibli Anime Inspired James Cameron

Princess Mononoke occupies a unique and prominent position, not just within Studio Ghibli or the realm of anime, but across the entire history of cinema. At its initial release, it was both the costliest animated production ever produced and managed to surpass all other films in Japan’s box office earnings. To this very day, it frequently graces lists compiled by media outlets showcasing the greatest animated films of all time. Furthermore, if one were to discern from the film’s “envirospiritual” undertones, Princess Mononoke significantly impacted James Cameron’s Avatar. In a 2009 interview with Sankei, prior to the release of Avatar, Cameron openly acknowledged this influence.

I never miss out on Miyazaki’s latest creations. Interestingly enough, the closing scene in this film subtly references Princess Mononoke.

As a passionate cinephile, I can’t help but reflect on how “Princess Mononoke” left an indelible mark on the gaming world, shaping masterpieces such as “Ori and the Blind Forest” and “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.” This groundbreaking film served as a pivotal moment in the illustrious career of Miyazaki, catapulting him to iconic status on the international cinema scene. The movie also ushered in a new era for Miyazaki’s storytelling, with its profound themes resonating in his subsequent works. This creative evolution played a crucial role in elevating anime from mere art form to a subject worthy of academic scrutiny.

Previous Theatrical Release History

Previously, “Princess Mononoke” wasn’t just screened internationally for the first time with its IMAX re-release; it’s likely that future international showings are on the horizon as well. Initially, Miramax Films managed the distribution of its North American release and the English dub (written by Neil Gaiman). However, it didn’t perform exceptionally well in this region. The film’s voice cast consisted of Billy Crudup as Ashitaka, Claire Danes as San, Minnie Driver as Lady Eboshi, Gillian Anderson as Moro, Jada Pinkett Smith as Toki, and Billy Bob Thornton as Jigo. Over the years, GKIDS has re-screened “Princess Mononoke” in theaters on multiple occasions, including during their annual Studio Ghibli Fest.

How And Where To Watch The Movie Online

Is Princess Mononoke Meant For Kids Or Adults?

People who can’t go to an IMAX theater can stream the movie “Princess Mononoke” at home immediately. In the U.S., it is currently streaming on Max and available for rent on Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and Fandango. You can also buy Blu-ray and DVD copies from the GKIDS store or Amazon. As with most Studio Ghibli films, “Princess Mononoke” is suitable for audiences of all ages, but younger viewers might find it a bit intense. Older tweens, teens will likely appreciate its stunning visuals and narrative, while adults can delve into its profound, almost spiritual, cinematic layers.

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2025-03-13 20:05