Montreal, QC – The anime feature “Mononoke The Movie: Chapter II – The Ashes of Rage” has garnered critical acclaim, taking home the Bronze Audience Award for Best Animated Feature at the 29th Fantasia International Film Festival, which concluded on August 3 in Montreal. This marks the second consecutive year a film from the “Mononoke” franchise has been recognized at North America’s largest genre film festival.
A Continued Legacy of Excellence
“Mononoke The Movie: Chapter II – The Ashes of Rage,” also known as “Mononoke the Movie: The Ashes of Rage,” earned its accolade based on popular vote from festival attendees, a testament to its compelling narrative and distinctive visual artistry. The victory follows the success of its predecessor, “Mononoke the Movie: Phantom in the Rain” (also titled “Gekijōban Mononoke: Karakasa”), which received both the Bronze Audience Award and the prestigious Satoshi Kon Award for Excellence in Animation at the 28th Fantasia International Film Festival in 2024. This consistent recognition underscores the enduring appeal and artistic merit of the “Mononoke” series.
Film Details and Upcoming Release
“Mononoke The Movie: Chapter II – The Ashes of Rage” originally premiered in Japan on March 14, where it quickly amassed 98,093,680 yen (approximately US$675,360) in its initial three days. Fans worldwide can anticipate its global streaming debut on Netflix, set for August 14. The film sees Hiroshi Kamiya reprising his role as the enigmatic Medicine Seller, the central figure who confronts supernatural disturbances known as Mononoke. The movie continues to deliver the lavish, picture-scroll-like visual world that is a hallmark of the franchise, incorporating elements such as washi textures to create a dense and unique aesthetic.
The Future of the “Mononoke” Franchise
The “Mononoke” project is set to expand further, with a third film, “Gekijōban Mononoke Dai-San-Shō: Hebigami,” slated for release in spring 2026. This upcoming installment promises to continue the captivating saga of the Medicine Seller and his encounters with spirits born from human emotions and grudges.
About the Fantasia International Film Festival
Established in 1996, the Fantasia International Film Festival has grown into North America’s premier genre film festival. Held annually in Montreal, Canada, the festival is renowned for showcasing a diverse global lineup of fantasy, action, sci-fi, and horror films, attracting significant attention from film enthusiasts and industry professionals worldwide. Its Audience Awards are determined by the collective votes of festival attendees, providing a direct measure of audience appreciation.
