Studio Ghibli's 'Princess Mononoke' receives 4K restoration screening in IMAX

GKIDS has announced the release of a 4K restoration of Studio Ghibli’s iconic anime film Princess Mononoke, which will be screened exclusively in North American IMAX theatres starting March 26, 2025.

The film will be shown in both its original Japanese language with subtitles and English dubbed versions across the U.S. and Canada.

The restoration process was directly overseen by director of photography Atsushi Okui, who previously worked on The Boy and the Heron. This marks the first Studio Ghibli project to be screened in IMAX, offering a fresh, high-quality viewing experience for audiences.

Directed and written by Hayao Miyazaki, Princess Mononoke originally debuted in Japan on July 12, 1997. The film features character design by Masashi Ando and Yoshifumi Kondo, with music composed by Joe Hisaishi.

The story follows Ashitaka, a young warrior cursed by a deadly affliction, who journeys west in search of a cure. Along the way, he becomes entangled in a conflict between the humans of Iron Town, led by Lady Eboshi, and Princess Mononoke, a young girl raised by wolves fighting to protect her forest home.

The film, praised for its stunning animation, epic battles, and profound themes of nature and humanity, features the voice talents of Gillian Anderson, Billy Crudup, Claire Danes, Jada Pinkett Smith, and Billy Bob Thornton.

This 4K restoration offers an opportunity for both new and returning viewers to experience Princess Mononoke in its most vibrant and immersive form.