Studio Ghibli’s timeless classic, Princess Mononoke, has once again captivated audiences, this time with a stunning 4K restoration hitting IMAX screens across North America. As of April 7, 2025, the re-release has grossed over US$5.9 million, proving the enduring appeal of Hayao Miyazaki’s masterpiece and the power of experiencing it on the big screen.
A 4K Revival Celebrates Ghibli’s 40th
To celebrate Studio Ghibli’s 40th anniversary, GKIDS Films brought Princess Mononoke back to theaters in a newly remastered 4K version. The film’s release began on March 26, 2025, exclusively in IMAX theaters across the United States and Canada, offering fans a chance to see the film like never before. This restoration was meticulously overseen by Atsushi Okui, a long-time Studio Ghibli collaborator involved in almost every major project since 1993, including his role as Director of Digital Imaging on The Boy and the Heron.
Box Office Success: A Testament to Timeless Art
The re-release has been a resounding success, demonstrating the continued value audiences place on theatrical experiences and classic films.
- Opening Weekend: The film ranked #6 in its opening weekend, grossing over $4 million (March 28-30).
- IMAX Record: Princess Mononoke‘s IMAX debut brought in over $4.1 million in North America, marking the biggest IMAX domestic opening ever for a local language title.
- Per-Theater Average: The film achieved a powerful per-screen average of $12,134 across 330 screens.
- Second Week Success: In its second week, the film earned an additional US$617,342, bringing the cumulative total to US$5,974,607. The film screened in 630 theaters earning US$175,414 on Friday, US$258,447 on Saturday, US$183,481 on Sunday.
These numbers are particularly impressive considering the film is nearly 30 years old and readily available for home viewing. The success of this re-release highlights the power of experiencing animation as a community, solidifying Princess Mononoke‘s place as a cinematic touchstone for old and new fans alike.
Princess Mononoke: A Synopsis
Princess Mononoke, originally released in 1997, tells the story of Ashitaka, a young Emishi prince cursed after defending his village from a demon boar god. Seeking a cure, he journeys west and becomes entangled in a conflict between Lady Eboshi, the leader of Irontown, and San, a young woman raised by wolves who fiercely protects the forest and its spirits.
The film explores themes of environmentalism, the conflict between humanity and nature, and the search for balance in a world grappling with industrialization.
About Studio Ghibli
Studio Ghibli, founded in 1985 by Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, has produced some of the most acclaimed and beloved animated films of all time. Known for their stunning visuals, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes, Ghibli films have captivated audiences worldwide. Other iconic works include Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, and Howl’s Moving Castle.
Legacy
Princess Mononoke continues to resonate with viewers, solidifying its place in cinematic history. The film’s box office success, both during its original release and in this recent 4K restoration, demonstrates the enduring power of Miyazaki’s storytelling and the artistry of Studio Ghibli.
Cast
The English dub of Princess Mononoke features an all-star cast, including:
- Gillian Anderson
- Billy Crudup
- Claire Danes
- Minnie Driver
- Jada Pinkett Smith
- Billy Bob Thornton
A Blast From The Past
GKIDS also oversaw a re-release of Princess Mononoke for its 20th anniversary back in 2016.
What the critics say
Princess Mononoke has a 93% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Home Media
GKIDS Films has been distributing Studio Ghibli films in streaming, theatrical releases, and home media formats, including in wonderful Blu-ray steelbook editions.
The Future of Ghibli
While Studio Ghibli celebrates its 40th anniversary, its legacy continues to inspire and influence animators and filmmakers around the world. The success of Princess Mononoke‘s 4K restoration serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating classic works of art for generations to come.
