The Art of Princess Mononoke by Hayao Miyazaki

By Tribute on November 19, 2014 | Leave a Comment

The notoriously famous narrative of Princess Mononoke unfolds as creator Hayao Miyazaki reveals storyboards, character concepts and watercolor paintings in the beautifully decorated 224-page spread of The Art of Princess Mononoke. Miyazaki works with Nizou Yamamoto, Naoya Tanaka, Yogi Takeshige, Satoshi Kuroa and Kazou Oga on all of the conceptual art, as well as with supervising creator Masashi Ando.

Anime collectors will relish in the detailed storyboards, as several pages have been designated to carefully constructed backgrounds, character sketches and cel art.

For example, Miyazaki dedicates a double-paged spread to a forest. A few words under the picture explain that this is the forest near the pool of the Forest Spirit. He has also illuminated moss in order to emit light. As readers flip to the next page, Miyazaki adds in Kodama Tree Spirits to the places previously illuminated. It is almost as if you are watching the pictures come to life, starting with background art and adding layers until the animators are satisfied with the image.

Readers are also treated to a glimpse of Miyazaki’s original layout collection, the ultimate behind-the-scenes footage to the film. It’s no wonder that Miyazaki was able to shatter box office records with his animated film – the talent he possesses exudes from the pages of the book. The artwork featured will only make you appreciate the film more.

Although this book does not feature a in-depth character analysis, readers will be able to marvel in the artwork and live through the character animation. For those familiar with the film needing a little more to satisfy their palate, they can look forward to the Production Diary, by Kazuyoshi Tanaka at the Production Desk, that is revealed towards the back of the book. The diary is a detailed three-year account of all of the major milestones hit in a culminating effort to have the film released on time. Major developments start in 1995, as the staff departs to Yakushima for location scouting and intense hiking. The diary includes comical entries as well – “Miyazaki, supervising animator Ando, and Kondo score yesterday’s test. Perhaps it was a difficult test, as no one passes. There will be no promotions this year.” Funny, considering the level of skill Miyazaki has working on this film. Anime lovers will find the Production Diary is complete gold.

If you are a fan of the film or a fan of Miyazaki, this book will be a cherished addition to your collection. ~Nadira Chand

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