Pom Poko

Directed by Isao Takahata, this animated film follows a group of tanuki, or raccoon dogs, who use their magical transformation abilities to fight against urban development threatening their forest home. The story blends folklore with environmental themes, showcasing the tanuki’s struggle to preserve their habitat amidst the encroaching human civilization. The film is noted for its unique animation style and cultural references, offering a poignant commentary on the impact of modernization. While it did not win major awards, it remains a beloved piece of Japanese animation. For those interested, it can be viewed for free on Soap2day.