Watching and Reflecting on the Animated Film Princess Mononoke

On Thursday April 15, join the Planet Blue Ambassador program and the Center for Campus Involvement for a drive-in movie screening of Princess Mononoke! Yes, we said drive-in, and yes, we highly encourage carpooling with your housemates! If you haven’t yet registered your car, click this link to learn more about the COVID safety measures and secure a spot for your crew. The event will take place in lot NC-31, behind Bursley Hall, and it is open to all U-M Students!

This epic masterpiece follows the young warrior Ashitaka who heads west in search of a cure for a deadly curse. He stumbles into a bitter conflict between Lady Eboshi and the proud people of Iron Town, and the enigmatic Princess Mononoke, a young girl raised by wolves, who will stop at nothing to prevent the humans from destroying her home and the forest spirits and animal gods who live there.

We look forward to watching the movie with you (a few of our staff will be there volunteering!), and we encourage you all to think about a few of the following “thought prompts” as you watch the show. 

Things to think about: 

  • How are certain characters portrayed? What do they represent in today’s society?
  • How does each character interact with the environment? What do their actions say about their values?
  • Do you find yourself siding with some characters more than others? Why do you think this may be?
  • What is the message of the film, and how can it be applied to where we live today?
  • Given this message, what actions can we take to work for a better world?

Have a favorite part of the film or a reflection after the show? Share it with us in the comments!