Studio Ghibli’s Pom Poko, directed by Isao Takahata, is a unique and touching movie that combines Japanese folklore with a strong environmental message. Released in 1994, the film show you the story of tanuki, mythical raccoon dogs known for their shapeshifting abilities, as they try to save their home from being destroyed by humans.
Pom Poko was a moving experience for me. The animation is colorful and lively, showing the playful nature of the tanuki while also highlighting their struggles. The characters are well-developed and relatable.
The most powerful part of the movie is its emotional impact. The tanuki’s fight is a smaller version of the bigger environmental problems we face today. Their story reminds us of the need to balance development with taking care of nature.
It’s a story with a strong message. It reminds us that progress should not come at the cost of destroying nature. If you looking for a beautiful and thought-provoking film, Pom Poko is a must-watch. It leaves you with a mix of happiness and sadness, and a renewed appreciation for the natural world.
A Story of Struggle and Change
“Pom Poko” starts in the late 1960s, when Japan is quickly expanding its cities. The tanuki living in the Tama Hills find their forest being turned into a new town called New Tama. Over several decades, the tanuki try many ways to stop this development. At first, they fight among themselves, but they eventually come together under the wise matriarch Oroku.
The characters in the movie are memorable and include Gonta, the fierce warrior; Seizaemon, the wise elder; Oroku, the smart matriarch; and Shoukichi, the young and clever tanuki. They use different methods to resist, from eco-terrorism and sabotage to appearing on TV to get public support. Despite their efforts, they face many losses and tough choices.
The Magic of Shapeshifting
A highlight of “Pom Poko” is the tanuki’s ability to shapeshift. These skills, which they had forgotten, are relearned and used to scare humans away. The animation beautifully shows these transformations, mixing humor with a sense of wonder. The “ghost parade,” where the tanuki create a huge illusion to make the town seem haunted, is a stunning and emotional moment in the film.
Despite their efforts, the tanuki can’t stop the development. Their unity falls apart, and they realize they can’t win. The film honestly shows the harsh reality of nature being destroyed by human progress.
A Bittersweet Ending
In the end, the tanuki have to face reality. Those who can transform blend into human society, while others try to survive in small parks. The movie ends on a touching note, with Shoukichi, now living as a human, finding a small group of his old tanuki friends. The final scene, where the tanuki ask humans to be kinder to nature, is a strong reminder of the movie’s message.
