Here are my 5 thoughts on this extraordinary film. I would be interested to know if you agree or disagree.

Thought 1: Ashitaka is the star of the film. Ashitaka’s journey across a medieval, war-stricken Japan is one of the highlights of the film. His perilous journey across dramatic forested mountains make a specular and unique backdrop.

Thought 2: There is no Princess Mononoke. Instead, there is a girl partly raised by wolves called San. San is not a princess in the royal sense of the word. In that sense, the name of the film is confusing. But her life experiences have made her very different to other human beings. The name Mononoke (vengeful spirit) given to her, shows she represents something more than mankind.

Thought 3: Lady Eboshi could be the future. A female leader of Iron Town who inspires loyalty and affection. As a leader, as well as being decisive and resolute when necessary, she reflects on decisions and listens to others: a model leader. Wouldn’t she have been good in a pandemic?

Thought 4: Jikobo is the most interesting character. Well, he is at least the easiest to understand, as well as possibly the funniest and most flawed character. For these reasons, he comes across as the most human. Interestingly, according to director Miyazaki Hayao, Jikobo represents the very epitome of a Japanese person.

Thought 5: The forests are the real star of the film. A confession: Up until a month ago, the only thing I knew about this film was that it was inspired by director Miyazaki’s visit to the ancient forests of the volcanic island of Yakushima in Kyushu. The forests, and their struggle for survival, are the ever-present backdrop to the film, as well as the film’s overriding concern. It was impossible to watch the film without craving greenery, some delicious forest air and its reviving, unquantifiable energy.