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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 asSpirited Away,Princess Mononoke, andMy Neighbor Totoro.
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 Defined Hayao Miyazaki’s Legacy as a Legendary Anime Director
In the world of animated storytelling,Hayao Miyazaki-drawn animations are colorful and imaginative spectacles with strong female characters and fascinating fantasy creatures, that leave a memorable impression on its audience, captivating several fans.
Not to mention, the director explores mature coming-of-age themes such as embracing empathy, self-discovery, resilience, and independence. Many of Miyazaki’s main characters are young girls or women, but he has also crafted unforgettable female antagonists. While the entire plot is set in a fantasy world, the heroine is often relatable, showing her flaws through realistic anxiety, doubts, anger, or a short-sighted approach.
Inspired by Dragon Ball and Spirited Away, Wildkeepers Rising Puts a Pokemon Twist on the Bullet Heaven Genre
Not to mention,Spirited Awayis still regarded by many as Miyazaki’s true masterpiece, captivating fans for its splendid storytelling and compelling characters. In aninterview, Miyazaki shared insights into the behind-the-scenes efforts that shaped Chihiro’s character, leaving a lasting impression on many fans. He said:
Every time I wrote or drew something concerning the character of Chihiro and her actions, I asked myself whether my friend’s daughter or her friends would be capable of doing it. That was my criterion for every scene in which I gave Chihiro another task or challenge. Because it’s through surmounting these challenges that this little Japanese girl becomes a capable person.
Initially, Chihiro is sullen, whiny, and fearful, with an annoying voice and a sulky expression. However, after her name changes to Sen, she becomes courageous and self-reliant, ultimatelyfreeing herself and her parentsfrom the spirit world.
Her journey is a lesson in tolerance, adaptability, responsibility, hard work, and courage, which shows Miyazaki’s creativity on high screens. It’s no surpriseSpirited Awaycaptivated millions of viewers, and won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2003, becoming the only non-English film to achieve this honor.
Why Miyazaki Nearly Retired Before CraftingSpirited Away
Miyazaki once shared that he initiallyintended to retire two decades ago, but something compelled the famous director to change his plans and continue his legacy. Back in 1999, Hayao Miyazaki shocked the world with his sudden retirement announcement. However, the legendary director never went through with his original plans and stayed in the industry for the next two decades.
During this period, Miyazaki’s influence only grew stronger, as he worked on another of his popular titles, the now-celebratedSpirited Away. The co-founder of Studio Ghibli also disclosed that his passion for creating a captivating film, rich with cinematic depth, for his friend’s daughter played a pivotal role in his inspiration forSpirited Awaybehind the scenes.
5 Anime Movies That Deserved to Get an Oscar Nod Before Spirited Away
Amid Hayao Miyazaki’s retirement plans, the renowned director won this year’s Ramon Magsaysay Award, known as Asia’s Nobel Prize.
Spirited Awayis available to watch on Netflix
Mehul Rolta
Articles Published :510
Mehul Rolta is a seasoned journalist with over 3 years in esports and soccer journalism. Transitioning to anime writing at Fandom Wire, Mehul shares his lifelong passion for anime about integrates professionalism. Dedicated to connecting the world of anime globally, Mehul shares thoughts and insights, communicating personal passion with professional insight.
