Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind (Japanese Audio)

About Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind (Japanese Audio)

Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind is a Japanese animated film directed by Hayao Miyazaki. It's a post-apocalyptic epic that's set in the far future. The world as we know has been ravaged by a global catastrophe and industrial civilization that humanity is now threatened by a toxic jungle. Nausicaa, the princess of the Valley of the Wind, struggles to prevent these kingdoms from destroying themselves and their dying planet.

Making / Production

The film was created by legendary Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Isao Takahata. It was released in 1984 and is widely considered to be a classic in the animated genre. Despite its early creation date, the quality of the animation, voice acting, and storytelling rivals any contemporary animated film.

Actors

• Sumi Shimamoto as Nausicaä - Shimamoto provides a spirited and passionate performance as the princess and protagonist.
• Gorō Naya as Lord Yupa - Naya lends his experienced gravitas to the role of the wanderer and mentor figure.
• Yōji Matsuda as Asbel - Matsuda delivers a youthful, energetic performance as the Prince of Pejite.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind is considered by many to be a precursor to Studio Ghibli.
• The film was based on a manga series of the same name, also written and illustrated by Miyazaki.
• The toxic jungle in the film is filled with giant, bioluminescent insects – including Nausicaa’s pet, Teto.

Awards

Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind won the Animage Anime Grand Prix prize in 1984. It continues to be highly honoured and was ranked as the second-best animated film at the 2006 Japan Media Arts Festival.

Quotes

• "In the midst of death, life persists. Amidst hatred, love persists." -Nausicaä
• "No matter how many weapons you have, no matter how great your technology might be, the world cannot live without love!" -Sheeta

Music, Soundtrack

• The opening theme - "Kaze no Tani no Naushika (Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind)".
• "Torinoko City" by Joe Hisaishi, a melancholic piece that underscores Nausicaa's isolation.
• "Kushana's Invasion," which underscores one of the film's most intense scenes.