The brilliant Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind has been re-released in the United States with updated voice acting and special features.
The film was written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki, the mastermind behind the Academy Award winning Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke. Miyazaki adapted his graphic novels of the same title for this mesmerizing piece of animation.
The story begins in a world 1,000 years after mankind polluted the Earth and destroyed civilization with a massive war. Humans live in semi-medieval settlements where they try to stave off the constantly approaching Toxic Jungle and its giant insect residents.
The main character, Nausicaa, is the princess of a small, peaceful kingdom in a valley by the sea. A neighboring kingdom's airship, infested with the giant insects, crashes into the valley and brings the turmoil of war.
The movie's plot is a kind of environmental fairy tale set in a fantastic world with startling landscapes, such as the exotic Toxic Jungle and the windmill-powered valley.
Originally released in the 1980s, the film came to the United States as Warriors of the Wind
with several scenes removed.
This version, however, features outstanding vocal performances from Patrick Stewart, Uma Thurman and Edward James Olmos. The deleted scenes have been reinserted, and they provide extra information and insight into Nausicaa's thoughts that the previous version lacked.
The animation, although drawn in the 1980s, does not show any signs of its age. The giant insects, airships and characters all show clear details in signature Miyazaki style.
The voice actors fit the characters well, a benefit of Disney's acquisition of the film's rights, and provide suitably emotive performances. Patrick Stewart's deep, distinctive voice is a perfect match for his role as the kind and powerful Lord Yupa. Uma Thurman provides a likable villain in her role as the ruthless, ambitious Kushana.
The voices synch well with the animation, and the film does not contain any irritating voices, even among the supporting cast.
The only downfalls of the movie are a few of the musical pieces that are obviously synthesized and date the movie accurately to the 1980s. The music is sparse, however, and does not detract from the overall feel.
The movie is rated PG, but it should not be mistaken for a children's movie. The dark feel and serious environmental message appeal to an older, more discerning audience, although children will enjoy the colorful animation and story.
This film is a timeless classic in the category of animated films, featuring high quality animation and broad appeal. 17
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Matt Canady
