Blu-ray Review // Pom Poko

Pom Poko is a delightful environmental fable told from the perspective of the “Pom Poko” raccoons. The raccoons of the Tama Hills region near Tokyo are dying out because their land has been taken over by urban sprawl. In an attempt to save their forest and the species that reside within it, the raccoons turn to their ancient transformation powers to scare away people from the area.

Steeped in Japanese folklore of mystical raccoon dogs the story comes from celebrated animators Isao Takahata and Hayao Miaski with Takahata directing. His style is evident, in both the storytelling and the animation. Mixing drawing styles to inform mood and story. The film also teaches environmental lessons in a way that is accessible to younger audiences.

Pom Poko originally came out in Japan in 1994 and the Blu-ray restoration is impressive. The HD picture and sound allow for an unparalleled home viewing opportunity.

The special features are a bit rudimentary. The film includes the Japanese (subtitled in English) version that is set against the original storyboard of the film. An interesting experience for animation enthusiasts but probably not one the family would be interested in. For the purists, you can watch the fill in the original Japanese, with or without English subtitles. There is also an option to watch the original Japanese trailers, once again cool if you say work in movie trailers but otherwise not that impressive. However, the DVD + Blu-ray combo pack is the best quality version you’ll get of the classic Studio Ghibli film and is a must have for fans.

Pom Poko originally came out in 1994 is now available on Blu-ray + DVD combo packs. Two more Studio Ghibli titles were also re-released on Blu-ray recently, Tales from Earthsea and Porco Rosso.