About Pom Poko (Japanese Audio)

Pom Poko is a 1994 Japanese animated fantasy film by world-renowned filmmaker Isao Takahata and produced by Studio Ghibli. The movie revolves around community and environmental conservation. The story focuses on a group of magical tanuki (Japanese raccoon dogs), who are trying to protect their dwelling place from urban development. The tanuki have mystic abilities to transform into anything. They use this unique ability to wage a war with humans for survival by transforming into humans, random objects, and even spirits and gods.

Making / Production

This film was directed and scripted by Isao Takahata, a leading figure in anime, best known for his work at Studio Ghibli, which he co-founded with Hayao Miyazaki. Takahata’s attention to detail and passion for telling stories of everyday life with a fantastical twist are evident in Pom Poko.

Actors

• Shinchô Kokontei: He voiced Oshō, a wizened elderly tanuki who tries to evoke hope in the desolate group with his vast life experience. He gave an exceptional performance, capturing Oshō's perseverance and wisdom.
• Makoto Nonomura: Nonomura's great voice acting skills have been used to voice Shōkichi, a young and enthusiastic tanuki who is a symbol of hope for the community.
• Yuriko Ishida: She brought to life the character of the enchanting tanuki Oroku (“Old Fireball”) who uses her cunning and courage to protect her home.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Pom Poko is a feature film from the famous Japanese animation company Studio Ghibli, creators of legendary films Spirited Away and My Neighbour Totoro.
• Pom Poko is a work of the epic-drama genre, an unusual direction for Studio Ghibli which generally leans towards fantasy.
• The film uses humor expertly throughout its narrative, despite exploring the serious subject of environmental conservation.

Awards

Pom Poko was nominated for the Best Animated Feature award at the 18th Japan Academy Prize in 1995.

Quotes

• "We're going to survive. We're not just empty suits of fur!" - Shōkichi
• "The human world is full of love and laughter... and wars!" - Oroku
• "The forest of Tama will become a sea of tombstones!" - Gonta

Music, Soundtrack

• "Itsudemo Dareka Ga" by Tokiko Kato: This emotional ballad song performed by Kato, provides the perfect backdrop for the film's plot, articulating the feelings of the tanuki.