Princess Mononoke Movie Review 1998

Stunning animated feature by Japanese master Hayao Miyazaki is a bit too long and graphic for small children, but is a must-see for fans of anime. Dubbed into English by an all-star cast, the tale follows the plight of Ashitaka (Crudup), who tries to find some way to lift a curse inflicted upon him after he accidentally kills a rampaging forest spirit. He discovers the cause is the encroaching civilization of Iron Town, led by the cold Lady Eboshi (Driver) and its conflict with the forest spirits and their champion San (Danes)--the princess of the title. Also lending their voices are Billy Bob Thornton as a mischievous monk and Gillian Anderson as San's wolf protector. Became the first feature of any kind to gross over $150 million at the box office in its native Japan.

Distribution

Not Yet Released

Available on VHS, DVD
Running time 133 minutes.

Cast and Crew

Genres

Anime

Screenplay

Neil Gaiman

Director

Hayao Miyazaki

Music

Joe Hisaishi

Other

Claire Danes, Billy Crudup, Minnie Driver, Gillian Anderson, Jada Pinkett Smith, Billy Bob Thornton

Producer

Miramax Films