The tale of Princess Mononoke is one that already is worthy of your time, and admiration. A brave warrior named Ashitaka is placed under a wicked curse during battle, and in order to save his life, he must embark on a journey for the cure. During his travels, he finds himself in the middle of a horrific war between humans and the spirits of the forest. He believes both sides can come to terms, but instead they see him as an enemy meant to do harm to both of them. With the help of a beautiful princess who was raised by a wolf-god, they will try to end the suffering, one way or another.

Although all of Hayao Miyazaki’s films have a sense of wonder and are insanely gorgeous to look at, his filmography showcases something else that makes him unique: his ever-willing-and-able ability to change his tune of his vibrant whistle. With movies like Spirited Away and Howl’s Moving Castle, he captures the heart of a child-like fantasy world that we all deserve. With Princess Mononoke though, he dives head-first into a boisterous world that’s heavy on heart, adventure and the will to prevail through tremendous adversity.