Pom Poko
Director: Isao Takahata
Actors: Shinchô Kokontei, Makoto Nonomura, Yuriko Ishida
PlotA group of shape-shifting tanuki (raccoon dogs) live in a secluded forest in Japan. Their peaceful existence is threatened when human urban development encroaches on their habitat, leading to a rapid decrease in resources and space. The tanuki, equipped with transformative abilities, initially live harmoniously but are soon forced to act as one to combat the humans' relentless destruction of their home. The elders, concerned about survival, debate various strategies, from frightening humans to direct confrontation.
As the situation grows increasingly dire, the tanuki employ their shape-shifting powers to create supernatural phenomena and illusions to scare off the humans and draw attention to their plight. They try different tactics to disrupt construction efforts and rally the neighboring wildlife to join their cause. The conflict escalates as both sides struggle for control, revealing broader themes of environmentalism and coexistence. The tanuki face difficult choices that test their unity and resourcefulness in the face of modernization.
Writers: Isao Takahata
Release Date: 25 Dec 1995
Runtime: 119 min
Rating: PG
Country: Japan
Language: Japanese
Home Video Reviews
Pom Poko's Blu-ray from Shout Factory, while slightly improved in presentation and extras over the out-of-print Disney edition, offers excellent technical specs and is a must-rent for fans of Studio Ghibli’s unique films.
Read our review of Pom Poko Blu-ray 平成狸合戦ぽんぽこ Heisei Tanuki Gassen Ponpoko to find out more
Pom Poko's Blu-ray release boasts exceptional video and audio quality, despite being light on extras; it's a uniquely whimsical Ghibli film worth owning.
Read our review of Pom Poko Blu-ray 平成狸合戦ぽんぽこ Heisei Tanuki Gassen Ponpoko to find out more