Follow us on Google News
Get the latest updates directly in your Google News feed
Hayao Miyazaki, the co-founder of Studio Ghibli, is renowned for his stunning visual storytelling and deeply personal connection to animation. However, he’s also known for being opinionated and rather straightforward in interviews. One such fascinating interview of Miyazaki involves his meeting with another Japanese legendary filmmaker, Akira Kurosawa, who is well known for his films likeSeven SamuraiandRan.
While they are both iconic filmmakers in their respective fields, one innocuous piece of advice that Kurosawa shared about Miyazaki’s career that he later found offensive; sparking an interesting debate about the nature of art and the hierarchy of creative mediums.
Akira Kurosawa and Hayao Miyazaki:A Historic Meeting of Great Minds
Inan interview, Hayao Miyazaki shared his fascinating encounter with the global legend, Akira Kurosawa. At the time of their meeting, Kurosawa was 83 years old, and he was already regarded as one of the greatest filmmakers in history. Miyazaki, then 52, was an established name in animation but had not yet achieved the international fame he would later enjoy after winning an Academy Award forSpirited Away.
The meeting took place at Kurosawa’s vacation home, a serene location not far from Mt. Fuji. The two directors, separated by 31 years of age, discussed filmmaking, creative inspirations, and their mutual admiration for each other’s work. Kurosawa even expressed delight over theCatbusfromMy Neighbor Totoro, showing that he was familiar with Miyazaki’s films and their whimsical charm.
Hayao Miyazaki’s Heartfelt Apology to Son After Major Fallout Over the Worst Studio Ghibli Movie: “For a long time we didn’t talk”
Despite being a veteran in his own right, Miyazaki admitted he felt like a little kid in front of Kurosawa, who had an aura of authority and wisdom. However, Kurosawa, noticing Miyazaki’s nervousness, kindly tried to put him at ease.
The Advice That Sparked Hayao Miyazaki’s Offense
AlthoughHayao Miyazakiholds a great amount of respect for Akira Kurosawa, one of his suggestions struck a nerve with Miyazaki. During this interview, the interviewer pointed out that Kurosawa once revealed a desire for Miyazaki to direct a live-action film. While the suggestion seemed harmless, perhaps even complimentary — it somewhat made Miyazaki prickly. He remarked,
I don’t know if he’s serious or just being diplomatic, but if he actually said that, I think it’s rude of him. That’s as unconnected to reality as if I were to say ‘I want Kurosawa to direct animation.’
Miyazaki’s irritation stemmed from a perceived implication that live-action filmmaking was a “higher” art form than animation. To Miyazaki, animation wasn’t merely a stepping stone to live-action but a legitimate medium for storytelling in its own right.
It’s impossible to know whatAkira Kurosawa‘s true intentions were behind his suggestion. Perhaps he genuinely admired Miyazaki’s storytelling abilities and believed they would translate well to live-action. Alternatively, his comment might have been a polite way of encouraging Miyazaki to explore new creative mediums.
Hayao Miyazaki’s First Studio Ghibli Movie May Have Inspired the Biggest One Piece Mystery But That’s Not the Only Link
On the other hand, Miyazaki’s response highlights his deep love for animation as an art form. He has long demonstrated the medium’s ability to convey complex emotions and ideas, often lamenting how animation is undervalued compared to live-action. However, his unwavering belief in the unique power of animation proved that animation is an equally valid, and in some cases, superior medium for complex storytelling.
Studio Ghibli films are currently available to watch on Netflix.
Moumita Chakraborty
Articles Published :930
Moumita Chakraborty is a seasoned Anime Writer at FandomWire with over 900 published articles. Passionate about the vibrant world of Japanese anime, she brings sharp analytical skills and cultural insight to every piece. From dissecting intricate plotlines to spotlighting the latest trends and releases, Moumita’s work resonates with both casual fans and seasoned otakus. Her writing aims to connect with fellow anime enthusiasts while contributing meaningfully to the ever-growing anime community.
More from Moumita Chakraborty
Sakamoto Days Part 2 Episode 8: Release Date, Spoilers and What to Expect
‘To Be Hero X’ Season 2 Needs to Give a Redemption Arc to Its Most Wronged Character
‘Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle’ Surpasses ‘Frozen’ and ‘Your Name’ as Japan’s 4th Highest-Grossing Film
Recommended
NYT Connections Hints and Solution for August 05, 2025
Toei Animation May Have Lost Its Touch After ‘One Piece’s Hiatus
You Can Finally Watch Brad Pitt’s ‘F1’ Blockbuster at Home: Digital Release Date Revealed - Report
Top 5 Best Time Skips in Anime
Dark Crime Shows With Mike-Like Antiheroes to Watch Before Mayor of Kingstown Season 4
Did Dustin Hoffman Really Slap Meryl Streep in Kramer vs Kramer – Entire Fight Explained
Akira KurosawaHayao Miyazaki
