The Environmentalism of Princess Mononoke
Continuing our series on the wonderful world of Studio Ghibli, we talk about the environmental themes in some of our favorite films from the studio. Environmentalism is a theme too rarely present in popular art, especially in genres traditionally marketed towards children. These films take a “show don’t tell” approach to teaching adults and children alike about the perils of capitalism, overconsumption, and overextraction. If you are interested in learning more about how art can be used as a tool for teaching or learning about the planet, take a listen. You may even hear us sing about Ponyo- that magic little fish.
3:44 – My Neighbour Totoro
11:46 – Pom Poko
24:08 – Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind
35:14 – Princess Mononoke
42:37 – Only Yesterday
47:01 – Kiki’s Delivery Service
58:12- Ponyo