Awareness Post Q1: Hayao Miyazaki

Hayao Miyazaki was born in Japan in 1941(age of 84 in time of writing this) and is a film director, animator, producer, and manga artist based in Tokyo. With his distinct hand-drawn animation style, his usually emotional films communicate themes of nature, pacifism(anti-war), and the human spirit. He co-founded Studio Ghibli where he has directed, written, and produced many successful films.

Link to Studio Ghibli site: https://www.ghibli.jp/

Miyazaki studied in Gakushuin University and graduated in 1963 with a degree in Political Science and Economics. He was self-taught in drawing in animation. He joined Toei Animation as an animator before the creation of Studio Ghibli.

Awards & Recognition

• Academy Award (Oscar)

  • Spirited Away (2003)* – Best Animated Feature

• Golden Lion, Venice Film Festival

  • Spirited Away (2002) – Best Film

• Japan Academy Prize – Animation of the Year

  • Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)

  • Porco Rosso (1993)

  • Princess Mononoke (1997)

  • Spirited Away (2002)

  • Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)*

  • Ponyo (2008)*

• Honorary Academy Award

  • Lifetime achievement (2014)

*some of my personal favorites

I've seen Studio Ghibli movies since I was very young, and although my memories have faded over time, they still left lasting impressions on me. For me, Miyazaki's works' most notable features are the simple art style(in comparison to some other animes) and grounded themes despite having fantastical worldbuilding. I believe that his films have much popularity due to being able to touch the audience's hearts. The art itself is also very skillful, as the animation is smooth and the illustrations are clean and appealing to me. I appreciate the themes Miyazaki works into his art and how he portrays his characters and their personalities.