UlasanAnime.com – The author recounts attending screenings of two Studio Ghibli films, Porco Rosso and Princess Mononoke, as part of a Ghibli Challenge. This marked the first time they saw subtitled versions of both films in a theater, though they had previously seen Princess Mononoke’s Disney dub multiple times.
The author notes that this is not their first viewing of either film, and with Totoro now out of the way, the only Ghibli films left unseen are those by Yamada. The experience wasn’t “life-changing or opinion-shattering,” but rather an opportunity to indulge in nostalgia for these already nostalgic works.
Reflecting on Porco Rosso, the author muses on the film’s themes, suggesting that even 15 years later, they resonate with modern anime. They draw a parallel to the series Strike Witches, highlighting Fio as a character who, despite being more American and evoking a “moe” reaction, is essentially a young, capable plane mechanic, not unlike the romanticized European figures encountered by characters in Porco Rosso.
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Porco Rosso is identified as the author’s long-time favorite Miyazaki film, praised for its charming mechanical design and exquisite aviation animation. The author considers it Miyazaki’s most “mecha-like” work, distinguishing it from imposing monsters or distant, fantastical settings. Instead, the airplanes in Porco Rosso are depicted as intricate and accessible, akin to Ashitaka’s blade or a simple bed of straw, but with a complex beauty that evokes admiration.
The viewing experience for Princess Mononoke is described with a humorous anecdote about seating. Due to arriving late, the author and their companion were provided with portable couches, creating a comfortable, albeit tilted, viewing setup reminiscent of watching from a home couch. Despite the unconventional seating, the ample legroom made the experience worthwhile.
Princess Mononoke is considered the most frequently seen film in Studio Ghibli’s catalog by the author, or at least the one seen most often in 35mm format. They admit to potentially having seen Whisper of the Heart more times, but primarily on VHS or DVD. Even on this viewing, the author discovered new details or recalled forgotten elements, particularly the film’s magical and strange aspects, such as Ashitaka’s arm’s powers and the actions of the Deer God. The pig-skinned hunters are still remembered as particularly unsettling.
The screenings of both films solidified their status as animation treasures in the author’s mind. However, unlike Porco Rosso, which the author felt tasted “sweeter” with each viewing, Princess Mononoke’s impact remained consistent. The author expresses a desire to rewatch Porco Rosso multiple times, suggesting they might do so.
The author mentions that these screenings are part of an “end-of-year festivity” among anime bloggers. Further details about the Ghibli theatrical road show can be found via GKIDS.
