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For many years, Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli have brought together some of the most beautiful and carefully animated projects for fans and audiences around the world. Each film features a distinct plot and iconic characters that will leave a lasting impression in the minds of the viewers. Even though Miyazaki-Sensei has a collection full of memorable films that include names such as Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, and so many more.

Marco Pagot, popularly known as Porco Rosso. Credits: Studio Ghibli

However, one name stands above all his masterclass creations. Released in 1992, Porco Rosso quickly rose to fame for taking its viewers on a rollercoaster of emotions; the film was colorful, somber, witty, and a real tearjerker. Nevertheless, choosing a pig to be a hero in the film felt quite odd to the eyes of the viewers, but Miyazaki-Sensei had a genius idea behind it.

Hayao Miyazaki’s...

From comfort to conflict, Hayao Miyazaki encapsulated an array of emotions and themes in his movies. His views and ideologies have revolutionized the animation industry in more ways than one. But that is not all, considering the legacy of the Ghibli animator.

Through his portrayal of women in the movies, Miyazaki has reshaped the course of animation and storytelling. And while the studio has bagged accolades, they earned their stripes through arduous efforts. But there might be a bigger problem.

San in a still from Princess Mononoke | Credit: Studio Ghibli

With no one having to lead the Studio, there remains a stalwart who is a true successor to Miyazaki’s legacy. Most fans have relentlessly pointed this out on the Internet in regards to the animator’s work. Surprisingly, it isn’t the esteemed director Makoto Shinkai.

Irrespective of that, Shinkai’s influence on the animation industry and filmmaking shouldn’t be excluded.

If you think you know Hayao Miyazaki well, the person behind some of the most mind-blowing anime films such as The Boy and The Heron and Spirited Away, then think again! Beneath his status as a genius filmmaker, he holds strong opinions regarding some Western films for which he absolutely despises them.

A still from the Oscar-winning Hayao Miyazaki film, The Boy and The Heron | Credits: Studio Ghibli

And surprisingly, one of the least-liked franchises includes the famous Indiana Jones series. In a past interview, Miyazaki did not just criticize these Harrison Ford movies but also the fans who love them. Who knew this master anime movie director had such a feisty side?

Not every day you hear a highly acclaimed director trash a beloved franchise like this, but Miyazaki’s candid comments are definitely making us wonder – what exactly made him dislike these movies so much? Here’s what he explained.

The anime world might change forever with the announcement of a new project. Twins Hinahima anime was created using 95% AI and is scheduled for a Spring 2025 release. As we go through the information about how this anime was created, the words of Hayao Miyazaki instantly flash in front of us. He would not be happy with how things are changing in the industry.

A still from the teaser trailer for Twins Hinahima anime | Credits: KaKa Creation

This anime could prove revolutionary, which seems to be the goal of the makers as well, but the announcement has attracted a lot of backlash from fans. And, it’s not surprising as the use of AI in creative fields is still quite controversial. So, here’s everything you need to know about the new AI anime and how fans feel about it.

AI anime Twins Hinahima gets announced for Spring 2025 release

With Frontier Works...

Almost every anime fan at this point might have known about the famous beef between Hayao Miyazaki’s Studio Ghibli and the controversial Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, as it was one of Hollywood’s most talked-about confrontations. As the story goes, Weinstein, then head of Miramax, demanded extensive edits to Princess Mononoke before agreeing to its American release. In response, a samurai sword reportedly arrived at Miramax’s office with the words “No cuts” etched into a note.

Princess Mononoke | Credit: Studio Ghibli

For years, this bold act has been credited to Hayao Miyazaki himself, enhancing his reputation as an uncompromising auteur. However, in an interview, Miyazaki revealed that the truth behind the sword story is quite different. The act wasn’t his but Toshio Suzuki’s; the producer who has been the backbone of Studio Ghibli’s success for decades.

Studio Ghibli vs. Harvey Weinstein: The famous conflict

The...

Hayao Miyazaki’s stories are a wonderland with their enchanting themes and surreal visuals. Be it My Neighbor Totoro or Princess Mononoke, the movies underline the intricacies of humans and their relationship with nature.

But that is not all considering the thought-provoking themes and metaphors the director incorporates in his films. The fantasy is fused with realism which is what makes up for the compelling narrative. Such is the case with this iconic Ghibli movie.

Howl Pendragon in a still from the movie | Credit: Studio Ghibli

With one of the most popular movies from the studio, Miyazaki hired this famous star to represent Japan. Not only was this a smart move but it marked one of the iconic moments in Ghibli’s history.

On top of that, Ghibli’s subtle anti-war stance along with their previous works highlight the diversity and versatility in storytelling. The studio set a benchmark when it comes to Japanese animation.

For those interested in the world of animation, Hayao Miyazaki is the best subject for a case study. From his resolute nature and unyielding belief in his craft to the critical and commercial success he has garnered over the years, he’s truly an auteur. He has carved out a niche that has become definitive of his personality.

A still from Ponyo | Credits: Studio Ghibli

Studio Ghibli’s paths often get entwined with media conglomerate and powerhouse Disney, whether it’s taking the Ghibli films to an international audience or fans drawing comparisons between Pixar and Ghibli. There’s a contrast between how Disney operates and how Miyazaki leads Studio Ghibli. During an interview, this difference became apparent as Miyazaki summed up his inspiration and focus within a simple sentence.

Hayao Miyazaki’s Focus And Inspiration Behind Ghibli Films

Ghibli films are extremely rich with symbolism despite the air of simplicity they exude.

Experience Spirited Away in All of Its Magical Beauty on the Big Screen This Christmas on Boxing Day Re-release

London, 10 December 2024 – Elysian Film Group and Anonymous Content are thrilled to unveil the official trailer and poster for the highly anticipated UK and Roi re-release of Hayao Miyazaki’s Academy Award®-winning animated masterpiece, Spirited Away. Longtime fans and new viewers of Studio Ghibli alike can experience the fantastical film on the big screen once again on 26th December 2024.

The Standard call it “Awe-inspiring”, and Financial Times wanted to award it “Six stars out of five” for a treasure that lives and breathes on the big screen. To experience Spirited Away back in the cinema since its 2003 release means all audiences will once again get to have that “magical experience” (Empire).

Winner of the Academy Award® for Best Animated Feature, Spirited Away is a “must see masterpiece” (Digital Spy) that follows...

"My Neighbor Totoro" is undoubtedly one of the best Studio Ghibli movies. It gave the studio its mascot, and is a perfect movie that's both sweet and cuddly, like its titular forest spirit, but also carries layers of darkness and nuance. This is a movie about how fantasy helps kids cope in times of hardship, which made this the perfect salve when doing a double feature with one of the most harrowing war dramas ever made.

A very early Studio Ghibli production, "My Neighbor Totoro" follows two sisters who relocate to rural Japan when their mother gets gravely ill. While their father is away to spend time with their mother, the two girls have magical adventures with forest spirits.

The film's success is long-lasting, not just because it became the studio logo or because Totoro is arguably the most recognizable Ghibli character and generally one of the most popular anime characters ever.

The relationship between Hayao Miyazaki and Yoshiyuki Tomino has always been a fascinating story of rivalry, professional envy, and mutual respect. While they are both legendary filmmaker coming from the same era, their careers, and creative philosophies could not be more different. Miyazaki is celebrated for his universally beloved films like My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away, and Tomino’s Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam delves into the darker, grittier aspects of human nature and the horrors of war.

Yoshiyuki Tomino | Credit: Dick Thomas Johnson from Tokyo, Japan, Cc By 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This dichotomy extends to their personal opinions about each other’s work, stating that he only likes Miyazaki’s The Boy and the Heron. Apart from these opinions, Tomino also considers Miyazaki an “enemy”, however, the reasons behind it are not simply envy or animosity.

Yoshiyuki Tomino’s Opinion on Hayao Miyazaki Hayao Miyazaki’s The Boy and the Heron...

If there’s one thing that can divide the anime fandoms, it’s the dub vs sub debate. Both factions can’t stand the other, and the arguments are severe enough to strain friendships. But you’ll be glad to know that Hayao Miyazaki doesn’t distinguish between them.

The director is known for his scathing views on the animation industry at large. His political opinions have also gotten him plenty of hatred in Japan and other countries. But when it comes to the matter of dubbed and subtitled anime, Miyazaki is simply neutral.

Hayao Miyazaki Couldn’t Care Less About Your Sub Vs. Dub Debate My Neighbor Totoro by Hayao Miyazaki | Credits: Studio Ghibli

Hayao Miyazaki infiltrated the US market with his early movies like Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, Kiki’s Delivery Service, and My Neighbor Totoro. His first Oscar winner, Spirited Away, also has a special...

In a world where high-octane action and relentless pacing dominate modern storytelling, especially in Hollywood, the concept of “space” in storylines often feels like a relic of the past. Japanese animation legend Hayao Miyazaki, renowned for his iconic works like My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away, famously criticized this aspect of Hollywood filmmaking. And now, following Miyazaki’s footsteps, Fuga Yamashiro has also incorporated this concept of space in Dandadan‘s anime adaptation.

Dandadan | Credit: Science Saru

While Dandadan is known for its fast-paced narrative and unconventional humor, Yamashiro emphasized the importance of crafting deliberate pauses to balance the frenetic energy. This approach not only honors Miyazaki’s motto but also demonstrates how integrating moments of emptiness can elevate even the most chaotic stories.

The Challenge of Pacing in Dandadan

Adapting Dandadan into an anime has no doubt presented unique challenges for the Science Saru team. The manga’s headlong...

Quentin Tarantino, the filmmaker behind classics like Kill Bill, Inglourious Basterds, and Django Unchained, almost got himself involved with a popular Hayao Miyazaki movie. The film in question is Princess Mononoke, which became the highest-grossing box office movie in Japan after its release in 1997.

Princess Mononoke by Hayao Miyazaki | Credits: Studio Ghibli

Written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki, Princess Mononoke focuses on Ashitaka, an exiled prince who finds himself smack in the middle of the struggle for survival between humans and nature. After family-friendly releases like Kiki’s Delivery Service and My Neighbor Totoro, Princess Mononoke made the Ghibli audience realize that the studio can deal with much more than fluffy and warm stories.

Quentin Tarantino Declined to Write the English script for Hayao Miyazaki’s Princess Mononoke Princess Mononoke by Hayao Miyazaki | Credits: Studio Ghibli

After Princess Mononoke debuted in Japan, Disney wanted to release it for the US audience.

In the realm of animation, Hayao Miyazaki’s status is similar to that of a legend. From My Neighbor Totoro to Kiki’s Delivery Service, his films have often been celebrated for their ability to appeal to audiences of all ages. Yet, in 1992, Miyazaki embarked on a project that was, by his own admission, an outlier; a deeply personal and idiosyncratic film titled Porco Rosso.

Porco Rosso (1992) | Credit: Studio Ghibli

However, Miyazaki was anything but optimistic about its prospects. Not only was he cynical about its success but he was also quite disturbed when he found out that Porco Rosso was well-received by people worldwide. Despite his reservations, Porco Rosso defied expectations, grossing $1.4 million worldwide and becoming one of the biggest successes of his career at the time.

Hayao Miyazaki’s Reflection on Porco Rosso

In a 1993 interview with Animerica conducted by Takashi Oshiguchi, Hayao Miyazaki candidly revealed what his...

Hayao Miyazaki might be a renowned director and animator, but if there’s one thing that isn’t synonymous with him — being a perfect parental figure. The Ghibli co-founder has always had a rocky relationship with his family, and it was his son, Goro Miyazaki, who aired the family’s dirty laundry.

Miyazaki has earned fame via his beautiful movies, two of which have won Oscars. But in his strive to create these movies, he has been neglectful of his own family. Perhaps the biggest victims of his workaholic nature have been his wife and son.

Hayao Miyazaki Was Not Happy with His Son’s Directorial Debut Tales of the Earthsea | Credits: Studio Ghibli

Goro Miyazaki made his directorial debut with Tales of the Earthsea. The movie, inspired by Ursula K. Le Guin’s Earthsea series, is often considered one of the weakest Ghibli movies. By the time the author’s rights were gained,...

On December 5, the IndieWire Honors Winter 2024 ceremony will celebrate the creators and stars responsible for crafting some of the year’s best films. Curated and selected by IndieWire’s editorial team, IndieWire Honors is a celebration of the filmmakers, artisans, and performers behind films well worth toasting. We’re showcasing their work with new interviews leading up to the Los Angeles event.

When filmmaker Chris Sanders began to imagine what his fifth animated film, “The Wild Robot,” might look like on the big screen, he was stuck on one crucial idea: how to turn Peter Brown’s deep-feeling and beautifully rendered YA novel about a caring robot and the baby goose she adopts into a movie for everyone.

“One of the things we talked about a lot, was how do you make a movie like this for a broad audience?” Sanders said in a recent interview with IndieWire. “We’ve...

People might be crazy over My Neighbor Totoro, Ponyo, and Kiki’s Delivery Service now but Studio Ghibli hasn’t always been so popular in the USA. In fact, the road to fame was filled with thorns for Hayao Miyazaki.

While the American audience was impressed with Miyazaki’s more children-friendly movies, they did not like his films that were made for an older audience. One movie in particular jarred the US viewers and shocked them awake to what Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli actually stand for.

The American Audience Was Not Ready for One Hayao Miyazaki Movie My Neighbour Totoro | Credit: Studio Ghibli

Ghibli’s venture into the USA began when The Walt Disney Company made a landmark deal with the studio in 1996. Disney wanted to be the sole distributor of Ghibli’s movie catalog. Previously, many studios who approached Ghibli were rejected, and there were two reasons why...

When we think of the most successful animated storyteller of this generation, the name of Hayao Miyazaki and his Studio Ghibli automatically pops into our minds. The duo has given his viewers a number of films that we have watched and enjoyed while growing up. Though the choices will be varied, everyone will have one, with Princess Mononoke, My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and The Boy and the Heron being the most popular choices.

A still from Spirited Away | Credits: Studio Ghibli

While the filmmaker has been making films since 1963, where his works have been praised for their distinct storytelling and breathtaking animation that adds a unique charm to the work. Thus, making the work so appealing to viewers around the world.

Though Miyazaki-Sensei’s works are in a league of their own, one of his works has been heavily misunderstood. After all, it gave a plot twist that no...

Hayao Miyazaki’s movies have inspired generations of creators. Studio Ghibli has a unique animation style that is appreciated by the general audience and directors all over the world. The latest Miyazaki movie, The Boy and the Heron also won an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

Flow (2024) | Credits: Dream Well Studio

But who knew that Miyazaki’s movies would inspire a rival so soon? The Latvian entry for Best Animated Feature at the 97th Academy Awards is a movie that feels inspired by the backgrounds and art style of Ghibli.

Hayao Miyazaki’s Famous Film Inspired an Oscar-Nominated Movie My Neighbor Totoro backgrounds | Credits: Studio Ghibli

Flow, a film directed and co-written by Gints Zilbalodis, is the Oscar entry of Latvia for Best Animated Feature category of the 97th Academy Awards. The movie shows a post-apocalyptic world, but rather than focusing on the survival of humans; it portrays a...

Flow (Straume), directed by Gints Zilbalodis (co-written and produced by Matiss Kaza) is Latvia’s enchanting Oscar entry

Flow, Latvia’s enchanting Oscar entry (sure to be shortlisted for Best International Film and a likely Best Animation nod), directed by Gints Zilbalodis, co-written with Matiss Kaza, is an apocalypse adjacent animal tale that fastens us to a little black cat with big eyes and transparent pink ears registering all that goes on in this puzzling world, which may or may not be ours, in the future or the past. There is a house where Cat lives, bathed in sunlight, with small pale butterflies fluttering on the meadow, reminiscent of Studio Ghibli’s white forest spirits in Hayao Miyazaki’s Princess Mononoke or the dust bunny soot sprites in My Neighbour Totoro and Spirited Away.

Gints Zilbalodis: “Yeah, the cat is like literally reflecting on its experiences.” Photo: Anne Katrin Titze

Statues of cats,...

Spoiler Alert !!!Trigger warning: murder and suicide mentioned.

Hayao Miyazaki has a lot of hidden meanings within his movies that have his audience scratching their heads. Some absolutely have some fruit to them, some are a big stretch to say nothing. One of these theories involves a beloved movie, My Neighbor Totoro. The movie is so simple yet beautiful without having to really overthink it beyond two sisters dealing with big changes. However, it seems fans have investigated too hard into the message behind this Miyazaki movie.

Mei and Satsuki from My Neighbor Totoro. [Credit: Studio Ghibli]

It’s good to note that this theory is definitely not true or the theme of the film at all, as Studio Ghibli even had to speak up about it. It’s a conspiracy from fans who perhaps got too bored and wanted something much darker from Hayao Miyazaki. While the parallels are strong,...

Many Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli fans won’t know this, but the anime films created and produced by Studio Ghibli and Miyazaki were internationally distributed on Home Entertainment mediums by Disney in many countries. This deal was made in August 1996 when the Walt Disney Company and Tokuma Shoten, the parent company of Studio Ghibli, formed a partnership.

Hayao Miyazaki | Credit: Oscars YouTube channel

According to the deal, Walt Disney Studios would be the sole international distributor for the animated films created by Studio Ghibli. These films were dubbed depending on the region and then released accordingly. Both Disney and Ghibli are the industry giants, and their collaboration was in fact one of the biggest deals in history.

However, the intriguing aspect of this collaboration is that popular actor and filmmaker Kevin Costner was a crucial part of it. In fact, he was the one who introduced Michael Ovitz, the then president of Disney,...

The unique joy of friendship is at the fore in helmers Ana Guevara and Leticia Jorge’s “Don’t You Let Me Go.”

Produced by Uruguay-based Agustina Chiarino’s Bocacha Films, the feature clinched the Noah Ephron Award at this year’s Tribeca Film Festival. It marks Guevara and Jorge’s third collaboration with Bocacha, a production company at the forefront of pan-regional co-productions. Paris-based Alpha Violet is handling international sales.

The film opens at a wake. Adela, portrayed by Chiara Hourcade, reminisces with friends there to mark the death of her best friend Elena, dead at 39. The friends and family gathered are heartfelt, polite and emotional in this most clinical and anodyne of places. “Nothing here reminds me of my sister,” remarks one.

Waves of grief hit people at different times; Adela’s strikes as she sits in her car to leave. It’s in these opening moments that the fantastical strikes.

The Max Holiday 2024 collection That Time of Year is now live on the streaming service. The collection will serve as the hub for holiday content, showcasing an extensive selection of series, films, and more, guaranteed to bring joy and cheer to viewers during the festive season.

The That Time of Year collection kicks off the festivities today by spotlighting themed curations like “Comfort & Joy,” “Families We’re Thankful For” and “Season of Romance,” featuring new Max Original film Sweethearts (debuting Nov. 28) and others, making it seamless for subscribers to discover holiday classics and new favorites on Max.

On top of celebrating the 20th anniversary of Polar Express, viewers can also dive into nostalgic fan favorite films such as A Christmas Story, Elf, Holiday Harmony, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, and ageless holiday classics like A Christmas Carol, A Christmas Story, A Carol for Another Christmas, Meet Me In St. Louis (Dec.

‘That Time of Year’ 2024 on Max

Max is celebrating the winter holidays with the “That Time of Year” collection, a special page featuring selected holiday films and series. The streamer’s also bringing back its special Yule log collection, with the 2024 selection including “World of Westeros Dragon Egg Yule Log,” “Harry Potter: Fireplace,” and “A Very Merry Rickmas Yule Log.”

2024’s been a tough year so holiday favorites Elf, A Christmas Story, and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation will help take our minds off the world. Max’s lineup also includes the classic holiday films A Christmas Carol, A Carol for Another Christmas, Meet Me In St. Louis, and The Shop Around the Corner. And beginning November 29, the streamers highlighting favorite holiday episodes of Friends, Abbott Elementary, Young Sheldon, and The Big Bang Theory.

Max’s “That Time of Year” Highlights:

Holiday Essentials

8-Bit Christmas (2021)

A Carol for Another Christmas (1964)

A Christmas Carol...

While those who rarely engage with anime they’re often surprised by the diversity within the genre. For every big series about fighting titans, ninjas, or super-powered beings, there are smaller movies and shows that handle low-stakes life. Adapted from the popular manga series by Takashi Imashiro, Ghost Cat Anzu allows its silly characters room to stretch their legs. While it’s nice to have a mostly relaxing experience, a self-important title character upends the adaptation. Ghost Cat Anzu is mostly fine, but in an era with so many great anime films, it’s a frustrating miss.

Related The Apothecary Diaries Holds an Upper Hand Over Other Shojo Anime Because of This Reason That Has Nothing to Do with Romance Ghost Cat Anzu Plot

When fifth-grader Karin (Noa Gotô) is left with her grandfather in the countryside, she has to adjust her life. Her grandfather – who also serves as a...

Hayao Miyazaki, the legendary animator and co-founder of Studio Ghibli, has long been one of anime’s most respected yet harshest critics. He is well-known for films like Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, and Princess Mononoke, which have influenced not only Japanese animation but also how people around the world view anime as an art form. However, alongside his accomplishments, he has been very open about his dissatisfaction with the anime industry’s growing emphasis on commercialism over creativity.

Spirited Away (2001) | Credit: Studio Ghibli

Miyzaki’s criticism feels especially relevant today, as long-running franchises like Naruto and One Piece represent the issues he highlighted. Major anime franchises nowadays have become so indulged in the race of profit-making, that they have somewhat forgotten their primary purpose. And it further created a disconnect between the storytelling and human sensitivity.

Hayao Miyazaki’s Early Warnings For the Anime Industry

In his 1979 essay, Nostalgia for a Lost World,...

Amidst the hustle and bustle, Hayao Miyazaki’s movies have become a breath of fresh air, as they are synonymous with the idea of life and its transience. The director is often praised for his detail-oriented and compelling storytelling.

As opposed to modern animation, Ghibli has set its benchmark in filmmaking. Through their traditional and handcrafted methods, the studio has produced some of the most iconic works of all time. But even Miyazaki can go overboard with his criticism.

Haku in Spirited Away | Credit: Studio Ghibli

In an interview, the Director opened up about his views on the Godfather of Anime. To say the least, it is nothing short of controversial as usual. From his views on anime to technology, he has been at the epicenter of contention.

And while this may vex most anime fans, his perspective highlights the perils of the animation industry.

Hayao Miyazaki and his mixed...

It may not even be mid-November yet, but Christmas has come early this year for Studio Ghibli fans. Following the BAFTA, Oscar, and Golden Globe winning success of the legendary Japanese animation outfit's The Boy And The Heron earlier in 2024, Hayao Miyazaki's My Neighbour Totoro made a triumphant return to cinemas in the UK and Ireland this summer, sparking calls for more of the studio's back catalogue to make a multiplex comeback. Well, whaddaya know! It looks like the Elysian Film Group and Anonymous Content have been listening to those calls, because they've announced that they're teaming up once again to bring Miyazaki's 2001 masterpiece Spirited Away back to the big screen this Christmas with a re-release in cinemas all across the UK and Ireland. And there's even a lovely new quad poster coming with it — check it out below:

As the first non-Western movie to win the Oscar for Best Animated Feature,...

Howl’s Moving Castle is an evergreen tale of love gifted by Hayao Miyazaki, and the film is here to last for generations. The movie has many other themes embroidered into it, especially its anti-war standing.

The movie has complex characters, such as Howl, who is initially shown in a negative light. But as the story progresses, the character wins over the hearts of its audience. However, one particularly curious scene in the film has always confused fans, and it’s high time to solve it for you.

Howl is Greatly Misunderstood in the Beginning of Howl’s Moving Castle Howl finds Sophie in Howl’s Moving Castle | Credits: Studio Ghibli

At the beginning of Howl’s Moving Castle, Howl is rumored to have a wicked personality. The rumor that was spread among the residents of Market Chipping was that Howl was in search of beautiful young women, whose hearts he would steal before devouring them.

Studio Ghibli stands as an iconic studio in the world of animation, delivering stunning films that have left an indelible mark on global audiences and the anime industry itself. Although the co-founder of Studio Ghibli, Hayao Miyazaki has often addressed his ambivalent feelings about mainstream anime and the culture surrounding it, he still approaches the industry with a level of respect and rivalry that mirrors his own standards.

Hayao Miyazaki’s My Neighbor Totoro | Credit: Studio Ghibli

This year, Hayao Miyazaki’s son revealed how his father regards other animators, including those working on popular series like One Piece as worthy rivals; regardless of their age or standing. His statement hints at the complex relationship Hayao Miyazaki has with both his industry peers and the larger anime landscape.

Goro Miyazaki’s Statement on His Father’s Relentless Work Ethic

In 2024, Studio Ghibli received the prestigious Honorary Palme d’Or at the Cannes International Film Festival,...

Hayao Miyazaki is a living legend, and his movies have achieved commercial and critical acclaim for decades. Two of his creations, Spirited Away and The Boy and the Heron have already received Academy Awards, but even his other movies are a pleasure to watch.

Haku and Chihiro from Spirited Away | Credit: Studio Ghibli

Studio Ghibli has excelled at handmade animation movies, and Hayao Miyazaki has failed to retire many times already. Thus, many people are curious about the behind-the-scenes procedure of creating Ghibli movies, and Miyazaki has a surprising confession to make.

Hayao Miyazaki Confesses Studio Ghibli Movies Don’t Have a Script My Neighbour Totoro | Credits: Studio Ghibli

Hayao Miyazaki had a press conference in Paris in December 2001 on the occasion of the first European screening of Spirited Away. During the question and answer session, Miyazaki confessed that his movies are all made without a script. Keep in mind...

Within the anime industry, Studio Ghibli has the most unique animation style that adds a realistic feeling to the story. For many years Ghibli’s animation blended perfectly with Hayao Miyazaki’s artistic approach and produced some of the greatest anime films of all time. It has remained consistent for most of the time, but there have been a few exceptions that fans might not have noticed.

My Neighbor Totoro | Credit: Studio Ghibli

One of those exceptions was seen when Miyazaki’s My Neighbor Totoro came out in 1988. The film was animated by Studio Ghibli, and the key animation at the time was handled by Yoshinori Kanada, one of the most influential Japanese animators of all time. Kanada had worked on a lot of Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli projects as the key animator.

Kanada had a special bond with Miyazaki, which led to the filmmaker making an exception for him.

Comparing two expert auteurs like Hayao Miyazaki and Makoto Shinkai, who have mastered their unique and distinctive directorial styles, is unfair. And, similarly expecting Shinkai to be the next Miyazaki is slightly disrespectful. He has created his own presence in the industry, and such comparisons diminish their individual strengths into a petty competition.

Hodaka and Hina in a still from Weathering With You | Credits: CoMix Wave Films

Shinkai himself has admitted in the past that he doesn’t want to be the next Miyazaki, as he believes the legendary director is in a league of his own. However, he has already surpassed the Ghibli director in one respect that is truly admirable. Not just Miyazaki, Shinkai has surpassed more than half of the Japanese animation industry with his considerate work ethic.

Makoto Shinkai and Hayao Miyazaki’s Work Ethics are Worlds Apart

For any aspiring animator, working under Hayao Miyazaki...

Immersion is the latest buzzword dominating the theme park industry, the concept around which the biggest and most expensive theme park expansions of the past few years are built, from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios, to Galaxy's Edge at Disney. It's what Disney tried to sell audiences with the "Star Wars" hotel — before it turned into a spectacular failure. The idea that you can step right into your favorite movie, see it brought to life in front of you, and keep the magic alive, rather than unveil the curtain and see these worlds and characters for the craftsmanship that they are is what going to theme parks is all about.

Except, it wasn't always about that. Instead, the very first ideas about what Disneyland and Universal Studios were meant to be are all but forgotten by the big parks. I'm talking about the idea of the...

Hayao Miyazaki is such an established director that any writer would feel honored if Miyazaki came knocking on their door to adapt their works. However, his reputation hasn’t always been so stellar, and in his early years as an animator, Miyazaki faced a brutal rejection.

My Neighbour Totoro | Credits: Studio Ghibli

Before Studio Ghibli was created in 1985 and even before Miyazaki’s debut as a feature film director in 1979, he and co-founder Toshio Suzuki were on a quest to create a unique animation. This endeavor of theirs was based on their appreciation of Pippi Longstocking, a series of children’s books by Swedish author Astrid Lindgren.

Hayao Miyazaki Flew to Sweden Only to Face Dejection Kiki’s Delivery Service | Credit: Studio Ghibli

In the 1970s, Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata worked for another animation studio, A-Production, and began to collaborate in the hopes of creating an animation out of Pippi Longstocking.

When it comes to imagination and creating story-rich films, Hayao Miyazaki and his Studio Ghibli are the names that pop up in our minds. Time and again, Miyazaki-Sensei proved why he is the greatest storyteller of this generation and how his ideas will resonate with multi-generational viewers.

A still from Princess Mononoke. Credits: Studio Ghibli

Each one of his movies would be unique and have an unmatched level of detail, which gives the studio its distinctive tone and the ability to express. Part of the studio’s global fame goes to Steve Alpert, who was the head of its international division between 1996 and 2011.

Alpert, who closely monitored the public relations and the English translations of the film, witnessed closely how the studio capitalized on Disney’s mistake as Miyazaki-Sensei and Suzuki-San preferred to have control over their work.

Disney Knew How To Outsmart Hayao Miyazaki for Rejecting Their Dubbed Works...

Renowned for his stunning visuals, profoundly deep concepts, and imaginative storytelling, Hayao Miyazaki is a legend in the field of animation. In addition to developing a distinctive style over the course of his multi-decade career, Miyazaki has also challenged conventional norms in the industry. He prefers to work with a diverse team, particularly that comprises a notable number of female workers.

Hayao Miyazaki’s Princess Mononoke | Credit: Studio Ghibli

Hayao Miyazaki’s insights for preferring female staff provide a window into the importance of gender diversity in creative spaces, an approach that may unsettle some modern “Sigma” mindsets that promote a hyper-masculine, self-reliant worldview. Miyazaki’s comments highlight not only the invaluable role female animators have in this industry but also his view on why their strengths contribute to the success of Studio Ghibli.

Hayao Miyazaki’s Unique Perspective About Women in Animation Industry

As the world of anime and animation continues to evolve,...

Among anime fans, Studio Ghibli enjoys special prominence due to its distinct storytelling and art style. Hayao Miyazaki has built an empire by consistently delivering on fans’ expectations and even surpassing them with his works. There are not many who can even come close to the spectacle of Studio Ghibli. However, whenever comparisons arise, fans like to pit Studio Ghibli against Pixar.

A still from Miyazaki’s recent The Boy and The Heron | Credits: Studio Ghibli

Similar to what Ghibli films are to fans, Pixar films have resonated with many, too. The success and popularity of Pixar is phenomenal. While some fans are constantly pitting them against each other it was the Chief Creative Officer of Pixar, Pete Docter, who shared an insight from his dialogue with Miyazaki. With one simple sentence, we learn a lot about the extraordinary track record of Miyazaki.

A Key Aspect of Hayao Miyazaki’s...

Andrew Lee can’t stop releasing music. Whether it’s a new full length album Sanshi with his band Ripped to Shreds, or another new album, Koncertos Of Kawaiiness: Stealing Jon Chang’s Ideas, A Book by Andrew Lee from his anime-themed grindcore solo project Houkago Grind Time, the new tunes keep on coming. As you can probably tell by at least one of the bands, Lee is a massive anime fan and allows it to guide his artistic endeavors. I had the chance to chat with him to hear more about his anime origins, taking inspiration from multiple genres, and the type of series in which he could imagine his own music. Can you tell me a little about your anime journey? How it started and where you are now? Are there genres you gravitate toward? Andrew Lee : The earliest anime memories I have are of a copy...

The co-founder of Studio Ghibli, Hayao Miyazaki, has crafted some timeless classics such as My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, and Princess Mononoke. Miyazaki’s works often explore environmentalism, pacifism, and feminism, while portraying complex female characters in leading roles. However, it seems like even legends like him are not without controversy.

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind | Credit: Studio Ghibli

An interview with Hayao Miyazaki concerning one of his most iconic heroines, Nausicaä, left some of his fans feeling more than a little unsettled. While Nausicaä has been celebrated as a powerful female character, Miyazaki’s commentary on her physical design, specifically her breasts, sparked a debate among fans.

Hayao Miyazaki’s View on Nausicaä: A Surprising Commentary

David Bednar (@ykarps), a game designer, shared a passage from Hayao Miyazaki’s past interview on X (formerly Twitter). The passage was taken from Starting Point,...

Whether it’s the comfort you seek in fictional worlds or something profound to question the state of things, any Studio Ghibli classic will satiate your desire for both. The way in which Hayao Miyazaki balances realism and romanticism in his works has resonated with many fans. In recent times, news about the worsening state of the animation industry and the awful work conditions has become commonplace.

A still from My Neighbor Totoro | Credits: Studio Ghibli

While many popular animation studios have been roped into the fire of similar controversies, Studio Ghibli has maintained a safe distance from the entire ordeal. Ghibli movies have a unique appeal that sets them apart from most modern anime.

Miyazaki’s own experiences during his early days in the industry seemingly play a huge role in the way Studio Ghibli is known to operate. Here’s how Miyazaki reached his current status with his celebrated anime studio.

Hayao Miyazaki, the director responsible for many of our favorite anime films, is a one-of-a-kind visionary in the industry. His Studio Ghibli movies are in a league of their own with works like Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, and My Neighbour Totoro, dominating the anime film genre. More recently, he directed The Boy and The Heron, a work inspired by his own life and the process of grieving his mother. His career is filled with great moments with little left to explore.

Hayao Miyazaki. [Credit: Oscars YouTube channel]

Studio Ghibli was awarded an honorary Palme d’Or at the Grand Théâtre Lumière in May 2024. Hayao Miyazaki’s son, Goro Miyazaki, accepted the award on behalf of the studio as its creative development head and had a few words to say on the meaning behind winning this and the future of Studio Ghibli. He essentially expressed his father’s thoughts that winning this...

In the world of animation and film, Studio Ghibli stands as an inspiration for creativity and artistry, producing films that have gone over and crossed the borders of animation with its core of humanity. At the heart of it is Hayao Miyazaki. With the support of the co-founders, the late Isao Takahata and Toshio Suzuki, Studio Ghibli has reigned over the animated film genre for years. The three have built a legacy like no other in the animation industry.

Castle in the Sky. [Credit: Studio Ghibli]

The recent release of an exclusive collection of original image boards from Studio Ghibli’s iconic films has reignited conversations about the brilliance and beauty of Hayao Miyazaki. These image boards will capture the breathtaking visuals and detailed worlds of nature-filled films like My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Princess Mononoke. They undoubtedly highlight what Takahata was referring to when he said that Miyazaki’s genius was...

The anime industry is thriving more than ever. With each passing year, it continues to make a huge impact not only on television but also in movie theaters. Amid the list of several iconic anime movies, Hayao Miyazaki’s works have been highly praised and awarded. The Co-founder of Studio Ghibli is the director of acclaimed films such as Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke, and My Neighbor Totoro.

Spirited Away, directed by Hayao Miyazaki. | Credit: Studio Ghibli

The profound director explores themes such as environmentalism, social justice, and feminism, as well as the various challenges individuals face in the real world. Indeed, the Studio Ghibli co-founder is regarded as a legendary director and animator whose entire filmography is exceptional.

While Hayao Miyazaki’s creations are widely respected, the legendary director once revealed the key rule behind his work that makes his female characters shine and stand out.

The One Rule That...

Hayao Miyazaki is a legend in the anime and film industry. His films, and Studio Ghibli films in general, are renowned for being the best animated films ever made. He has a heart more human than most and through his movies, he shows his optimism for a better world, despite his cynical nature. His films tend to go against every anime trope, whether its the treatment of female characters or the depth of his messages. He’s an artist who has observed and exposes the true nature of humans.

My Neighbour Totoro. [Credit: Studio Ghibli]

Miyazaki has often criticized the anime industry and the inherent nature of anime. His criticism, however, has often been misinterpreted and become a complete meme. It’s used especially by fans when ridiculous anime moments happen. While he did say that “anime was a mistake,” there’s more context to it than just that. It’s important to...

mm2 Entertainment, a major cinema operator in Southeast Asia, has signed a five-year agreement to distribute 21 films from legendary Japanese animation studio Studio Ghibli across seven countries. Some of Ghibli’s most celebrated works, including Academy Award-winner Spirited Away and fan favorites Howl’s Moving Castle and My Neighbor Totoro, will be re-released in theaters in Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Cambodia starting later this year.

The partnership allows mm2 Entertainment to bring beloved Ghibli classics back to the big screen for audiences to enjoy as the films were intended. With operations in Singapore and Malaysia, mm2 is well-positioned to distribute the films throughout Southeast Asia. This gives longtime fans a chance to revisit cherished titles and introduces new viewers to Ghibli’s magical worlds.

Studio Ghibli is known worldwide for emotionally resonant stories and artistic animated films directed by masters like Hayao Miyazaki. The studio recently received...

Asian media and entertainment company mm2 Entertainment has secured a five-year distribution partnership with Miyazaki Hayao’s Studio Ghibli, bringing the renowned Japanese animation studio’s acclaimed films back to Southeast Asian theatrical audiences.

The deal encompasses 21 Studio Ghibli titles, including Miyazaki’s “Spirited Away,” “Howl’s Moving Castle,” and “My Neighbour Totoro.” mm2 will rerelease the beloved films across Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines and Cambodia.

Parent company mm2 Asia operates cinema chains in Singapore and Malaysia, providing direct access to moviegoers. The first Studio Ghibli releases under this agreement are slated for later this year.

Studio Ghibli recently received the honorary Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Additionally, “The World of Studio Ghibli” exhibition is set to launch at Singapore’s ArtScience Museum.

The Southeast Asia releases come after Studio Ghibli scored belated first time releases in China to considerable box office success. “My Neighbor Totoro...

Japan’s Studio Ghibli is partnering with Singapore-based mm2 Entertainment to rerelease Hayao Miyazaki’s beloved anime classics in cinemas across Southeast Asia over the next five years.

The distribution deal, unveiled by the two companies Thursday, will see mm2 release 21 of Ghibli’s iconic films, including fan favorites like Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle and My Neighbor Totoro, across seven territories: Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, and Cambodia.

The plan continues Ghibli’s highly lucrative leveraging of its library in recent years. Undertaking a similar strategy in mainland China, the company has earned tens of millions by making Miyazaki’s work available to a new generation of Chinese moviegoers. The maestro’s My Neighbor Totoro earned $26 million from a China rerelease in 2018, followed by Spirited Away with $69 million in 2019. Other titles have followed.

Mm2 said the first titles in the Studio Ghibli library will be given the rerelease...

Studio Ghibli is a wonderland in every sense. Especially for those who seek respite from the mundaneness. This holds especially true for most of their movies. From intricate storytelling to visuals, the films tug at viewers’ hearts. This is relevant to Hayao Miyazaki’s film My Neighbour Totoro. There’s more to the movie than meets the eye.

Mei, Chibi, and Chu Totoro in a still from the movie | Credit: Studio Ghibli

Hayao Miyazaki pulled a Barbenheimer way back. However, this move looks as emotionally confusing for fans as it sounds. The movie was released as a double feature with Grave of the Fireflies. Directed by Isao Takahata, the movie is one of the darkest films from Ghibli. Despite its dark elements, the movie continues to scar viewers. Especially with its poignant portrayal of childhood and war.

Hayao Miyazaki pulled a classic Barbenheimer move with My Neighbor Totoro.

Hayao Miyazaki...