Pom Poko

Yes it’s satirical, odd and has multiple weaving storylines that blend together that makes it feel like an epic. It has the kinetic energy of say pulp fiction. But it contains some of the most eye popping animation to come out of ghibli on par with mononoke or spirited away. An underrated gem!!

I’d never heard of Pom Poko, and wasn’t so sure about a full purchase, but I may as well finish off the collection. It’s funny, a bit dark, surreal, i.e. quintessential Ghibli. Although not one of the most popular, it has it’s place. The storyline isn’t terribly cohesive, just enjoy the ride...normality is overrated anyway. The stars of the show, the “tanuki” or raccoon dog, is represented all over Japan by comical statues...and their environment really is being threatened. They’re also being trapped for their fur, nearly to extinction in China, so don’t purchase those knit hats with the fur trimmings. Ghibli movies usually proffer a stern warnings/messages regarding war or environmental issues, and Pom Poko is no different, albeit comical in tone.

How very lame of Studio Ghibli to not include the original audio track.