Mononoke the Movie: The Ashes of Rage (2025) Review – Coming Soon to Netflix

April 28, 2025

Mononoke the Movie: The Ashes of Rage (2025) Review – Coming Soon to Netflix

Mononoke the Movie: The Ashes of Rage

Mononoke the Movie: The Ashes of Rage is deeply rooted in the legacy of the Mononoke anime, which first captivated audiences in 2007. Praised for its experimental visual style, layered storytelling, and exploration of raw human emotions through supernatural themes, the original series quickly achieved cult status.

In response to years of passionate fan demand, the creators developed a new film trilogy that reimagines and expands the journey of the enigmatic Medicine Seller. The Ashes of Rage serves as the trilogy’s second chapter, continuing the narrative momentum set by Phantom in the Rain (2024).

The story draws heavily from historical contexts, specifically the harsh realities faced by women living in imperial harems during Japan’s Edo period. Within these confined spaces, concubines endured fierce rivalries, manipulation, and emotional isolation, all under rigid patriarchal control. These grim societal structures provide fertile ground for the emergence of Mononoke — supernatural entities born from unresolved suffering and intense emotional turmoil.

Steering the project is director Kiyotaka Suzuki, recognized for his contributions to darker anime like Psycho-Pass 2 and Babylon. His direction introduces a slightly more traditional tone compared to the original anime’s visionary director, Kenji Nakamura, but still preserves the surreal imagery and symbolic richness that define the Mononoke universe.

The film’s visual style stands out as one of its greatest strengths, staying true to the aesthetic inspired by emakimono — ancient Japanese illustrated scrolls. Each frame is carefully crafted to resemble a living painting, blending historical art traditions with a cinematic touch aimed at a broader audience.

Adding to the film’s atmosphere is the music of Taku Iwasaki, famed for his work on series like Noragami and Gurren Lagann. Iwasaki blends traditional Japanese sounds with contemporary music, mirroring the film’s thematic fusion of ancient and modern worlds.

The emotional resonance of the story is further enhanced by the theme song “Hana Musou” (“Flower Dance of Dreams”) performed by AiNA THE END. The track reflects the film’s central themes of rage, sorrow, and the longing for freedom — forces that breathe life into the Mononoke.

Ultimately, The Ashes of Rage is more than just a continuation of the story. It’s a profound reflection on human pain, systemic oppression, and the spirits that emerge when intense emotions are left unhealed.

Visual and Artistic Style

The film is widely praised for its unique visual style, heavily inspired by traditional Japanese illustrated scrolls (emakimono). Director Kiyotaka Suzuki opts for a more grounded visual approach compared to the bold experimental style of the previous film, yet the surreal and dreamlike atmosphere remains intact. The detailed animation and striking color schemes greatly enhance the storytelling.

Music and Sound Design

Taku Iwasaki’s haunting score perfectly complements the movie’s eerie tone. The main theme, “Hana Musou” performed by AiNA THE END, brings emotional richness to the film, echoing its central ideas of anger and personal liberation.

Critical Reception

Critics have largely responded positively to the film’s narrative and artistic execution. Richard Eisenbeis of Anime News Network awarded it an A-, commending its imaginative visuals and compelling plot, even though he felt it didn’t fully surpass its predecessor. Audience reviews, particularly on Letterboxd, also praise the film for its clarity and stunning animation work.

Release and Availability

The film debuted in Japanese cinemas on March 14, 2025. Although an international streaming date hasn’t yet been confirmed, based on the release pattern of the first movie, it is expected to arrive on Netflix around July 2025.

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