Experience the 4K Remaster of Princess Mononoke

In celebration of Studio Ghibli’s 40th anniversary, Princess Mononoke has been restored in stunning 4K and released for the first time in IMAX theaters across North America, starting March 26, 2025. Overseen by Ghibli’s vice president and director of photography, Atsushi Okui, the remaster was carefully crafted using the studio’s original 35mm film negatives—without relying on AI upscaling. The result is a faithful and visually breathtaking tribute to Hayao Miyazaki’s original vision.

What Makes This Remaster Special

• Visually Stunning in IMAX 4K
  Seeing this hand-drawn epic on the giant screen brings out every detail—from sweeping forest vistas to intricate character expressions. For many fans, it felt like watching the film for the very first time again.
  
• Authentic Restoration Techniques
  Instead of modern AI enhancements, the team at Studio Ghibli chose to restore the film using traditional methods and their original film stock. This approach preserves the delicate linework and rich textures that define Ghibli’s artistry.
  
• Enhanced Sound Experience
  The remastered audio elevates every moment. Joe Hisaishi’s iconic score resonates with new clarity, while environmental sounds—rustling leaves, animal cries, rushing rivers—now feel alive and immersive in a theater setting.

Box Office & Fan Reception

• Strong Debut in Theaters
  The 4K IMAX version earned over $4 million during its opening weekend in North America, ranking #6 at the box office. Within its second week, total earnings neared $6 million—a strong showing for a re-release of a nearly 30-year-old film.
  
• Emotional Impact on Audiences
  Fans flooded theaters and online platforms with heartfelt reactions:
  
  
  “Watching Princess Mononoke in 4K IMAX was pure magic.”
  “The sound, the detail, the colors—it was like a new film.”
  The combination of visual splendor and thematic depth left audiences deeply moved all over again.
  
  

Final Thought

This 4K remaster of Princess Mononoke isn’t just a nostalgic trip—it’s a triumphant revival of one of animation’s greatest achievements. It proves that hand-drawn films can still dazzle, provoke thought, and move hearts in today’s digital age. Whether you’ve seen it ten times or never at all, this version deserves a place on the big screen—and in your memory.