And dont forget the ambivalence of human nature. Theres no absolute hero or villain in the movie.

It's funny that this film came up on the board, because I just watched it for the 1st time last weekend. I really enjoyed it - good pick for the IMDb Top 250. It has amazing animation, as one would expect from Miyazaki. Some people would probably go over the edge taking an "eating animals is wrong" theme from it, which I have problems with since so many people treat animals better than they do people. Still, a very engaging film. 8/10.

It is a well constructed story with good characters and objectives. The storytelling is amazing.

I'd say the "monk" is the only true villain in this story. He plays both sides of the conflict, out of selfish wants and (dare I say) greed.

This is my least favorite Mizayaki film. I watched it for the first time about 12 years ago, I can't really remember why now, I should probably give it another go?

@bratface said:

This is my least favorite Mizayaki film. I watched it for the first time about 12 years ago, I can't really remember why now, I should probably give it another go?

Think of it like this: You've had 12 years of life experience. This could very much impact how you see the movie's story, characters, and message.

@SnorreSelmer said:

@bratface said:

This is my least favorite Mizayaki film. I watched it for the first time about 12 years ago, I can't really remember why now, I should probably give it another go?

Think of it like this: You've had 12 years of life experience. This could very much impact how you see the movie's story, characters, and message.

Well, I was in my mid 50's when I saw it, so I had plenty of 'life experience'. I loved all the rest of his films, giving them between an 8 & a 10, but PM received a 6. I wish I could access my reviews/comments about films on 'the site that shall not be named', I could find out what I disliked about it back then. I will try to rewatch it if I can find it.

@bratface said:

@SnorreSelmer said:

@bratface said:

This is my least favorite Mizayaki film. I watched it for the first time about 12 years ago, I can't really remember why now, I should probably give it another go?

Think of it like this: You've had 12 years of life experience. This could very much impact how you see the movie's story, characters, and message.

Well, I was in my mid 50's when I saw it, so I had plenty of 'life experience'.

Oh dear, I assumed you were fairly young when you saw it. Yes I know, I assumed in 2020. I for one wouldn't mind hearing what you disliked about it. For me, the thing that rubbed me the most was the monk. I should watch it again myself, as it's been about 20 years since last I saw it, and I've doubled in age since then (hence my original statement). ;)

@SnorreSelmer said:

@bratface said:

@SnorreSelmer said:

@bratface said:

This is my least favorite Mizayaki film. I watched it for the first time about 12 years ago, I can't really remember why now, I should probably give it another go?

Think of it like this: You've had 12 years of life experience. This could very much impact how you see the movie's story, characters, and message.

Well, I was in my mid 50's when I saw it, so I had plenty of 'life experience'.

Oh dear, I assumed you were fairly young when you saw it. Yes I know, I assumed in 2020. I for one wouldn't mind hearing what you disliked about it. For me, the thing that rubbed me the most was the monk. I should watch it again myself, as it's been about 20 years since last I saw it, and I've doubled in age since then (hence my original statement). ;)

I think that maybe I thought it was 'too preachy'? I don't know, it could have been something entirely different?