The Art of Princess Mononoke HC
Publisher: VIZ Media
Release Date: August 26, 2014
Price: $34.99
Creator: Hayao Miyazaki
Format: 224 pgs., Full-Color, Hardcover
ISBN: 978-1-4215-6597-2
Age Rating: All Ages
ICv2 Rating: 5 stars out of 5
 
With rumors swirling about Studio Ghibli's future (see "Hayao Miyazaki to Return?"), the arrival of VIZ Media's The Art of Princess Mononoke is a vivid reminder of the manga artist's beautiful creation and vision.
 
Originally published in 1997 in Japan, this edition marks the first English adaptation.  Unlike earlier picture books produced by VIZ for Miyazaki films such as My Neighbor Totoro, The Art of Princess Mononoke is more than just sketches and screencaps from the movie.  Beginning with ten original Miyazaki poems conceived for musical composer Jo Hisaishi, the book moves into a lyrical introduction from Miyazaki himself.  Nothing better encapsulates or captures the essence of the film and its themes more than Miyazaki's own words.  Similarly, the inclusion of his own concept sketches, paintings, and storyboards, alongside illustrations by the designers and animators makes The Art of Princess Mononoke a truly comprehensive collection.
 
Fans who enjoy the film and students of animation and visual design will appreciate the comparative layouts of the concept art alongside storyboards and the finalized cel art.  Furthermore, the inclusion of an extensive chapter on digital imaging and computer graphics as well as an interview with CG Director Yoshinori Sugano gives readers a complete overview of the process.  Lastly, because animation is so time consuming, the book also includes the entire Production Diary from 1994 through 1997 outlining every step in the filmmaking process.
 
--Nathan Wilson