Average Rating: 
Rating:  - Vivid, Crisp, Brilliant
First, some concessions. I do not speak Japanese, so I can say nothing about the Japanese language version or the quality of the translation. Also, I am not an rabid anime fan, and in fact this was the first japanese-animated feature film I ever saw (I have seen more since). Finally, this movie takes maturity to watch and appreciate - there is some graphic animated violence and mature themes throughout. Now, on to the review. This animated film by Hayao Miyazaki is absolutely amazing. It embodies all the things you should look for in animation, and it stands as one of the greatest films - and, along with Ran (directed by Kurosawa), my favorite film from Japan. First, let me say that the story was terrific, using developed characters and tackling real-world problems of environmentalism and technology tastefully and without an abundance of feel-good Sierra-club nonsense a la Captain Planet and Ferngully. It explores humanity's relationship with nature, the struggle for human survival, and the difficulties of human advancement. While there is a large degree of sentimentalism (Randians beware) the story should appeal to a wide range of audiences. The most amazing thing about the movie is the art and art direction, all masterfully done. The entire movie is a feast for the eyes, both characters and backgrounds are drawn with fascinating detail and rich, crisp color. The artistic and directorial talent deserves the utmost respect. You'll have to see the movie to believe how good it is. The sound is well done, but for those of you wanting to utilize your overly expensive surround sound systems, you'll find yourself missing out (sorry). The sounds are crisp, though, and complement the visual experience beautifully. The music is a chapter all to itself, both complementing the other senses and leading your emotions throughout the whole film. The voice talent is mixed. Americans will certainly recognize Jada Pinkett Smith (horrible), Minnie Driver (excellent), Billy Bob Thorton (so-so), and Claire Daines (excellent). A fellow reviewer claims that the poor voice actors hurt the movie beyond repair, but this is nonsense. The dubbing is excellent (read: does not look stupid and mismatched). Regarding translation, see the concessions. This movie showcases japanese animation and animation in general. The crispness of sound, enchantment of music, and vividness of color make this film a thrill ride for the senses. The movie avoids the problem of having many things happening at once, and clearly shows what is happening even during the fast-paced battle scenes -- a sure sign of directorial experience. Praise for Hayao Miyazaki is practically neverending. If you enjoy Japanese animation, you probably already own this film. If you absolutely hate it, watch this movie anyway - I think it will change your mind. This movie is essential for any DVD library. Buy it.
Rating: - Definitely a Princess of Film
If you are not one that is familiar with the Anime genre, or even if you are, this film will astound you. Roger Ebert referred to it as the Star Wars of animated features, and indeed he is correct. It is Hayao Myazaki's epic masterpiece, a stunning eco-fable that has been intricately conceived and beautifully illustrated. The film is dazzling and utterly creative from nearly the first moment to the heart pounding conclusion, this movie is one of the most beautiful and true films ever brought to the screen, it is heartfelt, vicious, and involves you in its every motion. It is both violent and gentle, serene and angered, it is everything that a great movie should be. Imagination runs rampant, from the giant forest gods, to the striking glittering blue nightwalker, the adorable alien-esque kodama, the surreal sequences, and the wolf raised princess herself, this is true magic with a point. And with a movie like this, DVD is nearly the only way to fly,
Rating: - The King of Anime
When I first viewed this movie, it was an Internet fansub, burned onto a simple 650 MB CD-R. Even though the quality of the format was terrible, the absolutely stunning animation shone through. The script was translated by fans and some words had lost their meanings, as did some passages. But the moving story and heavy meaning still shone through. My point is that even in it's lowest-quality form, this movie is on par, if not better than, movies like Akira or Ghost in the Shell.As a professional production, this anime transferred to DVD with a Dolby 5.1 soundtrack is going to be the pinnacle of animated film. Any anime fan would do well to pick this one up. If you are and you don't at least watch Princess Mononoke, you'll probably come to feel that you're missing out through the reviews of people like myself. As for those who gave this movie less than 3 stars due to over-complicated plot or "gratuitous" violence, they know not what they speak of. This movie is simply a work of art, and deserves to be viewed by those who can appreciate fine things in all forms. Order now! I am!
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