Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind (1984)

About Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind

Released in 1984, "Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind" is a Japanese anime feature film written and directed by acclaimed director Hayao Miyazaki. The story revolves around Nausicaa, a gutsy young princess from the Valley of the Wind who navigates a decaying world ravaged by environmental pollutants and monstrous insects to bring about restoration and joy.

Making / Production

The movie was born out of Miyazaki's manga series of the same title, produced by Studio Ghibli's predecessor, Topcraft. The production was a grand amalgamation of Japan's best creative talents including artist Kazuo Oga and composer Joe Hisaishi.

Actors

• Sumi Shimamoto as Nausicaä: Gracefully portrayed the optimistic and daring princess.
• Goro Naya as Lord Yupa: Brought to life the mysterious, wise and skilled sword fighter with skills in spades.
• Yoji Matsuda as Asbel: Effectively played the Pejite prince who becomes Nausicaa's ally.
• Yoshiko Sakakibara as Kushana: Presented an imposing figure as the ambitious and ruthless Torumekian princess.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This movie marks the debut of Studio Ghibli, although it was released a year before the studio's official establishment.
• Director Hayao Miyazaki was reportedly so dissatisfied with the English dubbed version that he adopted a "No cuts" policy for future foreign releases of Studio Ghibli's films.
• Despite not being an official Studio Ghibli film at the time of its release, "Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind" is often included in the Studio Ghibli canon.

Awards

"Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind" was awarded the Ōfuji Noburō Award at the 1984 Mainichi Film Awards.

Quotes

• "Even the smallest can change the course of the future."
• "In every creature, there is a beauty."
• "He who sheds others' blood cannot rest. His fear will not allow it."

Music, Soundtrack

• "Opening" - The film opens to the haunting and beautiful theme composed by Joe Hisaishi.
• "The Valley of the Wind" - Sets the tone perfectly for the serene setting of Nausicaa's home Valley.
• "Princess Who Loves Insects" - Captures the character essence of our protagonist, Princess Nausicaa.
• "Battle" - Embodies the tumultuous struggle that ensues within the narrative.