Princess Mononoke

Japan, 15th century: the young prince Ashitaka travels west in the hope of being freed from the mysterious curse that will eventually kill him. In a forest lives the Deer God, a forest spirit who may be able to help him. But he is embroiled in a battle with the people of the iron factory, led by Lady Eboshi, who believes so strongly in progress that she will not hesitate to destroy the forest. Her opponent is San, or Princess Mononoke, a girl raised by wolves who will do anything to prevent the destruction of the forest. Ashitaka falls in love with her and becomes increasingly involved in the conflict.

Director Hayao Miyazaki, co-founder of Studio Ghibli, used computer animation for the first time in this film. He had a huge budget at his disposal, making it the most expensive anime film ever made at the time. In the beautifully animated result, he combines Japanese mythology with environmental awareness, told from the perspective of a strong woman.