Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind (2005) is a Japanese dystopian fantasy animated film directed by Academy Award winner Hayao Miyazaki. It was initially released in Japan in 1984, and an English dub version was later released in 2005. The English dub version features voices of of Alison Lohman, Uma Thurman, Patrick Stewart, Edward James Olmos and Shia LaBeouf.
After an apocalyptic conflict has devastated much of the planet's ecosystem in the future, the few surviving humans live in scattered, semi-hospitable environments within what has become the Toxic Forest. The world is devastated by atmospheric poisons and swarming with giant insects. Princess Nausicaä lives in the peaceful Valley of the Wind and can communicate with the massive insects that populate the dangerous jungle. Under the guidance of the pensive veteran warrior, Lord Yupa, the courageous Nausicaä desperately struggles to prevent two warring nations from destroying themselves and their ravaged planet.
First, I had never heard of Nausicaa. Since this film was part of the Studio Ghibli classics, I had to see what made this film so spectacular. Overall, I thought the storyline were breathtaking and uplifting. Princess Nausicaä exceeded my expectations of a female protagonist who was not only a warrior but also a pacifist. This film was also ahead of its time -- there would not be similar films on the big screen such as The Hunger Games and Divergent until two decades later. Despite being produced in the 1980s, the art design looked beautifully well done. Anime fans and families will enjoy this classic animated film -- this is a must see. Stay tuned for more Studio Ghibli reviews this summer.
Watch the official English dub trailer below:
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