The Miyazaki "Problem" (A Hayao Miyazaki Retrospective)

A conversation about how Hayao Miyazaki has evolved over his career, his muses, his flaws and the animated films that made him into the most discussed Japanese Animation Director.
Follow me on Twitter for Updates on Videos- / stevemccarthyii
References
Starting Point: 1979-1996
pg 48- 49
pg 56
pg 89 "stale"
pg 91 "good films for children"
pg 204
pg 413 “animation is forever an unskilled labour”
Miyazaki as a secret Idealist- “Personally I am very pessimistic. But when, for instance, one of my staff has a baby you can't help but bless them for a good future. Because I can't tell that child, 'Oh, you shouldn't have come into this life.' And yet I know the world is heading in a bad direction. So with those conflicting thoughts in mind, I think about what kind of films I should be making.”
Auteur Theory www.britannica.com/art/auteur...
www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/?...
• Hayao Miyazaki's Final...
Films Shown
Making of Pinocchio (1940)
Sword in the Stone (1963)
The Rescuers (1976)
Black Cauldron (1986)
The Little Mermaid (1989)
The Wild Swans (1962)
Snow Queen (1950)
Frozen (2013)
Peter Pan (1953)
Lion King (1994)
Lilo and Stitch (2002)
Alice in Wonderland (1951)
Kingdom of Dreams (2014)
Horus Prince of the Sun (1968)
Puss n Boots (1969)
Animal Treasure Island (1971)
Ali Baba (1971)
Lupin III (1972)
Panda! Go, Panda! (1973)
Anne of Green garbles (1978)
Future Boy Conan (1978)
Castle of Cagliostro (1979)
Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind (1984)
Sherlock Hound (1983)
Castle in the Sky (1986)
My Neighbour Totoro (1988)
Devilman (1972)
Devilmam OVA (1987)
Kiki Delivery Service (1989)
Porco Rosso (1992)
Whisper of the Heart (1994)
On the Mark (1995)
Princess Mononoke (1997)
Making of Spirited Away (2003)
Spirited Away (2001)
The Whale Hunt (2001)
Digimon Adventure: Bokura no War Game!(2000)
Princess Mononoke (1997)
Howls Moving Castle (2004)
Grave of the Fireflies (1988)
Ponyo (2008)
Legend of the White Serpent (Hakujaden) (1958)
The Wind Rises (2012)
NEVER-ENDING MAN: HAYAO MIYAZAKI (2016)
Boro the caterpillar (2018)
Your Name (2016)
Voices of a Distant Star (2003)
The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013)
Mary and the Witch's Flower (2017)
Pixar sequel films

[@radishjuice8662]

I dont know why, but all of the ghibli films make me kind of sad, like something really important has just disappeared from my life

[@itsjustahaze]

I literally get sad ill never see it for the first time again ..

[@oneill617rozzi]

@palm princess brehhhhh chill

[@paddyshotgun1792]

@@oneill617rozzi *BRUH* 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥😳😳😳😳😎😎😎😎😎😂😂😂😂😳😳😳😳

[@ghoulhaven7765]

Jenn Jutsu god that’s the truth so badly, like that’s exactly it

[@Shaymin0]

All good things must come to an end and make way for new things.

[@antoniedekoning9436]

Well, Kiki's delivery service isn't about moving to a new town and trying to find work. It's about the strain of how people with a creative skillset get drained when they're forced to use their skills for things they don't feel passionate about. How they work isn't appreciated and overlooked. How a skill as amazing as flying or painting or sculpting is considered awe inspiring, but becomes straining and mundane when done not for the artist but for clients. that's why Kiki lost her magical abilities, because due to the lack of excitement, challenge and appreciation, she began to wither away and needed to get out of her head and get over her magical block.

[@erickblaw6708]

I like your coment. I never thought like that, in most discution about kiki the main argue is that the flim is about faceing changes or maturing (things that also apear in the movie) but I never saw this perpective also it makes a lot of sense and is kind of a metacomentary. P.D. Excuse the bad writing

[@xblade149]

You're right hell meaning is very apparent with the artist kiki talks to

[@tanthanh1114]

thank you for pointing this out

[@Lee-fw5bd]

youre right man. isn't it great that art can't have more than 1 interpretation or meaning?

[@nomishanya]

Love how you put it 🙌🏼

[@doodars9357]

Ghibli is like a beautiful dream, but unfortunately, we always wake up

[@constancesmoothpiee1286]

Stop:'(

[@shanthegamer21]

Miyazaki: Yep. *sign* F*ck my life.

[@doodars9357]

Namia Kurikuri that is the one exception. That film is a fucking nightmare!! (It’s not bad, it’s just devastatingly sad)

[@harshmnr]

Yeah but the same dream can be inside us all the time. :) ~:~

[@karencarpenter5845]

I see it the other way, people are forever unaware and asleep, when watching something like this you finally wake up. 🖤😎🖤

[@bradleygo1]

When did he say “my career was a mistake” certainly wasn’t in the video. This was more of a history of his work, I thought it was gonna be about his issues regarding the mental struggle to continue with anime or something. Clickbait kinda

[@satsu3098]

The quote is "Anime was a mistake" and its really just a meme. Dont be so serious

[@epicgamer-ur1wg]

Thanks

[@0203mariam]

I did only watch this video because of that, so for me it was total clickbate

[@ququ5463]

Saved me time, thanks

[@anotherpilgrim8313]

Thanks for the heads up. I may still watch later, but not a priority.

[@sofiafrompluto5908]

I would rather they end the Hayao Miazaki legacy with "a goodbye film" than making sequels that will just ruin the magic

[@MasterKhan_]

Well... HIS last film is called "How do you live?" Based on the 1932 Japanese Novel with the same name. His last film is gonna be depressing :(

[@hindurashtravadi2563]

Today I watched Spirited away and I can say that Miyazaki is a legend

[@iconian1387]

Certainly there must be someone, somewhere, that can continue in Miyazaki's shoes. If Studio Ghibli hasn't been able to find new blood, new talent, perhaps they need to look harder, or look farther. There must be someone that could take over the banner.

[@MasterKhan_]

@@iconian1387 That's why a lot of Ghibli animators left Ghibli and started their own studio - Studio Ponnoc to continue his legacy.

[@deumexmachinaviridi2326]

All good things must come to an end

[@ML-xp1kp]

I'd rather Ghibli not release any "sequels" et al. Honestly, if they have to end, let them end on a high note.

[@katie-st8nx]

Matthew Lysenko i know, all of he films have seen give closure by he end and i'd hate to see that ruined

[@tjjordan4207]

Your dream maybe coming true. Studio Ghibli halted production on their films after Miyazaki retired, only to announce their next film for 2020 when Miyazaki came out of retirement for one more film. And those involved with Ghibli went on to create Studio Ponco, so I bet after this next one Miyazaki will be done for good and Ghibli will follow.

[@lilians.402]

I agree, no sequals please!

[@tjjordan4207]

Actually, there are only two sequels I wouldn't mind them doing; one to Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind and Tales From Earthsea. If you've read the manga to Nausicaa, then you know that there is so much more material they can do for a sequel. And as for Tales From Earthsea, I just feel like there was so much left unconcluded that there is a need for a sequel to explain a few things that I'm still confused about.

[@Dracomut]

Nah, sequels are overhated. I for one would love to see a sequel to Spirited Away and Tales of Earthsea

[@NikiWonoto26]

my girlfriend love Ghibli so much after I've introduced her to it. but she already passed-away 3 months ago due to stage 4 cancer. i'll keep my memories of her & also her love for Ghibli forever always in my heart

[@scysadist]

I'm sorry bro, I hope you are well.

[@jessicapartida6239]

Sorry for your loss :(

[@linkthepig4219]

That's really sad, I hope you're doing ok now.

[@Ismael-kc3ry]

That’s horrible, I hope you’re doing ok now!

[@rekitoaimi9445]

f

[@CreativeCreatorCreates]

I worked in a comic book shop in 1998. I was pregnant with my first child. A customer, whom I love to this day, came in with a gift for my son. It was a basket with an original Totoro VHS, a Totoro plush, and a few other goodies. This movie is so important to us! Our favorites are Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, Nausicaa and Princess Mononoke. All of his works are masterpieces we cherish. Edit: my boys LOVE Ponyo :) (well, all the films)

[@juliaheidihorn]

That's so cute! :) Princess mononoke, spritied away, Nausicaa and ponyo are my fav ones too actually 😊

[@ArmyofFallenOnesOfficial]

man my family doestn care what my brother watch, the cartoons at tv is crap , any sugestions ?

[@ArmyofFallenOnesOfficial]

and my favorite is prenses monoke

[@CreativeCreatorCreates]

@@ArmyofFallenOnesOfficial any Miyazaki film. They are all so very good. There is also The Cat Returns, Castle in the Sky..i, sure there is more but I can’t remember them at the moment.

[@ArmyofFallenOnesOfficial]

@@CreativeCreatorCreates thx mate

[@ryangunwitch-black]

The Miyazaki "Problem" is that there aren't like a hundred more Miyazaki films.

[@CryingZombie666]

And the fact that his movies are being overlooked by the next generations in favor of a crapload of incredibly inferior Disney/Pixar/Dreamworks cartoons and animations. Seriously, even when I dislike some of his stuff like Princess Mononoke, My Neighbor Totoro, etc... I think all of his works are too good for this rotten world.

[@averagejoeschmoe9186]

Quality over quantity.

[@May04bwu]

StygianTraveler141 What next generations? It's all about upbringing. I was raised on some of these films and watched the rest as an adult. When I have kids, I'll show these films instead of american films.

[@CryingZombie666]

+May04bwu The ones after the millennials. Take a look around, pal. It's not only about upbringing; it's about education. All forms of education. All works of Miyazaki are art, but do you see them being showcased and talked about in schools/colleges/universities? No. Have shows like Batman The Animated Series, Avatar The Last Airbender, etc... got to be analyzed and inferred for education? No. To the government, education is a tool for brainwashing. From capitalism to communism to post-modernism. It's all the same. You wanna talk about upbringing? The baby boomers failed to teach their children how to think for themselves, and in turn, the millennials failed to do the same. This next generation I was talking about is called Generation Z(ombie), and betcha they don't know what the fuck a *stick* is. So next time you wanna refute my claim, put something in your brain as back-up, yeah?

[@ju9076]

But that's exactly what makes each movie special in its own way. There don't have to be more. You are thankfull for every movie. That's what I love about studio ghibli.

[@LemonSte]

I don't feel like howls moving castle was anything like spirited away. they were both warm and fuzzy feeling, sure, but I just don't see why it got such criticism. It's one of my favourite films of all time, alongside spirited away.

[@Stevem]

Unpopular Opinion but I think I like Howl's more than Spirited Away. My guess it's a lot of critics had only seen Spirited Away and found many of the Miyazaki elements familiar, but not as potent as the first time. Expectations and all that.

[@thenew4559]

I agree, they were very different, almost as different as any other pairing of Miyazaki’s films.

[@poofypoof6508]

I watched howls moving castle when I was younger at a friends of mine. I absolutely loved it.

[@alyssaroudebush8288]

Same :)

[@MadCircle01]

Howl's is up there with Spirited away ,Princess and Porko for me.

[@maid.3310]

Love them or hate them, Spirited Away and Howl's Moving Castle represent the peak of Miyazaki's career. They're so incredibly complex, layered and nuanced, whilst manage to be overall uplifting - a formidable feat for any film of any genre. They're so densely packed with perspectives and details - you learn new things with every viewing. What I find particularly impressive is that although his stances and ideals remain prominent throughout these films, they never feel didactic. In Spirited Away: there's the criticism of living in a capitalist society, how it can erode your sense of identity. Don't like that kind of thing? You can enjoy the film for what it is at face value, like a 10-year old would. In Howl's: Miyazaki's anti-war sentimentalism, how pointlessly devastating all wars are. Would rather not? You can marvel at what a visually stunning film it is. Now, that would be virtually impossible in real cinema. You can only achieve that with anime. Miyazaki fully knows that, and he went to town on it. Having said that, they're my personal favourites. Each has such a compelling emotional centre. One shows you how to grow up elegantly. The other says best not to violate your nature.

[@Cryogenius333]

I disagree, only in that you say these things cant be represented in standard film. A film like Wes Andersons "Grand Budapest Hotel" captures that anti-war sentiment fairly well, while still being a fun, quirky, hilarious ride...maybe not so much for children. That said, Miyazaki is able to capture these things with significantly less effort, making those themes subtle enough not to confuse a child, but prominent enough to strike an adult. Personally, my favorite film hands down is Princess Mononoke. It may be because I'm a sucker for the Sengoku Jidai(I cant confirm this, but the presences of stylized Portugese style firearms would imply this was taking place roughly around that period), but I love the darker themes, the battle scenes, the chases, and the music.

[@carlosluismendez7392]

Mononoke is his best work

[@linkthepig4219]

@@carlosluismendez7392 I'd argue Porco Rosso and Nausicaä are also his best. Spirited Away is just overrated imo.

[@j0an-07-arc6]

Howls is definitely not one of his best I can tell you that

[@j0an-07-arc6]

@@linkthepig4219 what nah howls is overrated

[@MrKmoconne]

Miyazaki deserves retirement now if he wants it. He has nothing to prove. However, all artists, if their health holds out, will continue to want to keep creating.

[@starrysoup]

Ooof reading this now 😅 I'm glad he's not retiring after watching the new documentary it's hard to see an old man like that change his routine up haha he even said it himself

[@mistertaz94]

In Miyazaki's defense he didn't exactly say that anime was a mistake, only that the current direction it was heading was a mistake. What he disliked about the industry was that there was no story to tell, no thoughts to the process and how much of anime hits today are essentially "Oh look girls in super short skirts, pantyshots, and fanservice galore! Story? Who needs story when you have beautiful girls/attractive males?!" If you compare the storytelling of classic anime like what Miyazaki did or the anime from the 80s, and even 90 to VERY early 2000's were considered artistic pieces that had thought behind them without relying on skinship. For a good example of anime being a good artistic medium outside of Miyazaki's own works look at Jin-Roh the Wolf Brigade, the original Mobile Suit Gundam, and even the less well known Ys (based off the same games for the Famicom)

[@Stevem]

Be careful with that assessment, Miyazaki's point about the anime industry has been the same since 1978. He also doesn't watch anime so take what he says with a grain of salt. The anime was a mistake thing is a bit of a joke (meme). Even my thumbnail is playing off that when he says "my career was a mistake" His career is anime is much as he's critical of Otaku and such he is like the biggest one that doesn't realise he is. As well as the face of anime for many people.

[@sailormatlac]

Well, I agree with most of what you said. The moment storytelling went into the drain, it was done. However, never forget there was a big shift in anime consumption by the late 90s when a majority of shows started to be made for night time television. They tapped into otakus with all they had, first with great series, then simply shit because shit was easy to sell while not requiring to waste time on creating new stuff. At this point, anime is an echo chamber for socially awkward or depressed people (nothing against these people, but I don't think exploiting everyone of their empty fantasms is a good thing except for selling merchandise). Also, I'd like to point out Miyazaki wasn't a paragon of creativity. Most of his works are either based on a variation on Hols (his first movie in the 60s) or harmless girlish nostalgia. Nothing wrong with that, but it shows a creator has generally a very few things he tries to express through his arts and Miyazaki is no exception to that. Funny to think his Claris (Casgliostro) was one of the first character to be an icon of anime lolis in Japan. That must have been hard to swallow for a man like him...

[@actionms8566]

Mister Taz I highly disagree. There is a ton of crappy, no-plot, fansercive stuff around, but they still make great anime on a regular basis. Attack on Titan, Re: Zero, Made in Abyss for example.

[@Stock090]

lol

[@krabbcake8371]

Miyazaki isn't exactly known for his storytelling. It's more so the quality of animation and creative settings. For the most part, the weakest part of Miyazaki's films is the plot. He likes to meander around his created environments rather than move the plot forward constantly, which unfortunately takes away from the complexity and richness of the story in exchange for world building and aesthetics.

[@curorisluodi]

“Art for art's sake is an empty phrase. Art for the sake of truth, art for the sake of the good and the beautiful, that is the faith I am searching for.” -George Sand

[@nickagriesti6708]

Yes, well, that is art art for the sake of art. This is a platitude that is likely taken far out of context. "Truth" is a distinctly relative concept. That would be why there is so little concern over the divide between stated concept and apprehension of the actual piece (or, rather, why the tension between those two is such a prominant feature of the art world, to the effect that many artists simply use a particular space to offer something that need not seek outside reference in order to function as an evocative aesthetic experience). "Beauty" runs into the same problem. The specific subject of the piece is generally the piece itself. There are specific combinations of color, light and shadow that are known to elicit very specifc responses, yes, but is that what he means by "beautiful"? "Truth" and "Beauty", it seems to me, are holdovers from a time in art history when there was still a very rigid socioeconomic hierarchy in western culture. They have the terrible tendency to enforce a sense of orthodoxy. Now, if your counter is that the beauty is found in the spectacle of the piece itself, and the Truth is found in its resonance, then congratulations, you have just advocated art for art's sake. The only redeeming grace of such a sentiment as expressed in your OC might be that it advocates the sort of postmodern deconstructionalism that art has become known for over the past 100 years. But then you get right back to the idea that all things are relative, from an aesthetic perspective. Plus, I don't really see a specific indication of that in the quote. See, that's why offering an isolated quote does nothing to further the conversation. Dare I say, it might actually function as a thing for its own sake.

[@Knights_of_the_Nine]

Curo Risluodi Def don’t like that quote. Art where someone is going from forgone conclusions is bad. Art where you explore ideas is best, IMO.

[@sofialaya596]

What I gathered is a more simple thing, art should follow another purpose that can benefit humanity, and that it's bad to follow none at all, that's it. That it should leave the art sphere and met the history to get to its core, to move to the concepts of beauty to break it appart, to make people think about beauty and not solely consume it. The important thing isn't the real meaning of truth, beauty, etc. what matters is that we explore trough art, analize, move and maybe get conclusions that are our truths, maybe getting closer to the real truth than any other medium that lacks such expresiveness. Not to waste its comunicative potential

[@ishmaelforester9825]

@@nickagriesti6708 If you say all things are relative, from an aesthetic perspective or any other, you are essentially asserting an absolute and therefore contradicting yourself. You might as well say, 'the truth is there is no truth,' or, 'the good is there is no good,' or 'beauty is there is no beauty,' all of which statements are absurd, like demanding square circles. In art, reason or humour you are relating to something absolute, more or less accurately or frequently, or you are talking nonsense.

[@ishmaelforester9825]

Traditional art was hierarchical because it was transcendently oriented and demanded the transcendent. Is that not the urge and purpose of human beings, in art and everything? Or are we to give civilization over to decadent Parisian deconstructionist degenerates indefinitely? I don't think so.

[@victorgabrielbuena]

I just love how every single time I see food in a Studio Ghibli film, I just feel so hungry in how delicious everything looks.

[@scofieldvictoria]

Ghibli animators are definitely foodies

[@annoying_HK_guy]

With the animators actually being requested to cook and observe real meal to draw it........I doubt it can't be delicious 🤤

[@stephenrochester6309]

The most long-winded and opinionated clickbait ever.

[@cheesecakelasagna]

ikr

[@derick1259]

What's the clickbait? This vid was a Hayao Miyazaki retrospective...

[@user-sq6hn8yk6p]

@@derick1259 The thumbnail.

[@God-yb2cg]

@@user-sq6hn8yk6p It's literally his most famous quote.

[@SoulGuitarMetal]

@@God-yb2cg His most famous fake quote.

[@maelgwyn]

Kiki, for me, was not about the struggles of unemployment and loneliness, though those are definitely things that happened in the film. The deeper point of Kiki is literally about becoming an adult, and metaphorically about re-connecting with what drives your (artistic) passion. In this light, the finale doesn't seem like a neat little bow, but an act of great bravery which demonstrated that Kiki was growing up: doing the hard thing for the right reason even when your passion and motivation have been floundering. Digging deep within yourself and finding a more important motivation for doing what you do. The act of saving Tombo is reminiscent of the parent who goes to work every day even though they do not feel passionate about it, but they do it for the sake of their family, especially for their children, whose lives are entirely dependent on their caretakers. The film ends on a high note, but I don't think that the ending implies in any way that everything is perfect now. Maybe just better. We see highlights from the days and months to come which tells us, "She'll be alright."

[@Stevem]

When I said the thing about employment and such I should of been more clear, that wasn't a guess, but straight from Miyazakis mouth. He talks about it in the book Starting Point when he's showing his pitching document for Kiki. There's stuff about becoming an adult I'd agree the film makes that very clear by introduces the concept of witches leaving at 13. I could see the thing about artist passion , Kiki does become friends with one and her losing of her powers could be seen like artist block. It's very much an act of bravery, but more so a spur of the moment one like the person who grabs someone before walking in front of a bus. There's some part of you that couldn't let that happen and there also a gain from doing it you will look like a hero. Going to work is a thankless situation, you gotta do it and if you don't (with kids) your a bit of of an asshole. So in my mind if Kiki were to keep delivering despite the lack of powers that would be reminiscent of the parent situation. The thing about the ending is it's all super highlights , her delivery is booming , those kids like her now, she's happy, Parents are dressing their young children like Kiki showing it to be a trend and that she is now like a town hero. Now this is fine for a traditional happy ending, but not as one that could be relatable to the audience in real life.

[@RyanStorey1231]

Yeah, I thought it was apparent that things aren't perfect for Kiki at the end of the film, especially since in the original Japanese version, Gigi still can't communicate with Kiki and that connection is implied to be lost for good. This was changed in the English dub to give the film a happier ending, but in the original, that was the case.

[@DSan-kl2yc]

Stevem I never even remember that part. To me that was part of her seeing the ugly side of people. She becomes depressed starting with the cake thing. What's in peril is her good nature. But it's the triumph of her goodness as a person. Like I said I never really paid attention to that aspect of the credits. It wasn't important to me. But I honestly don't care because it doesn't distract at all. And I don't need that part to relate to me. I don't need to relate to every aspect. I'll take it as a metaphor of her goodness spreading to others. Showing and doing good inspired it in others by her popularity Edit: Or perhaps it's just a good thing that happens to her. A reward for it. And can't really say it's unrealistic like you've said of someone doing something to be well liked. Regardless of the extraordinary ability she used.

[@bubbyskittles4802]

Any articulate person would understand this.

[@erika4228]

AGREED! Even in the end we weren't shown that Jiji could speak again etc

[@jacobmortimore]

Ghibli will die with myasaki and that's absolutely fine, what a legacy

[@spacebrothers2945]

@d I think its better that way tbh ofc I would love nothing more than to enter a new era in ghibli a new perspective with the same if not more magic than before but if it fails I wouldn't want it to feel forced or be like the boruto to naruto in my opinion and its hard to find the talent to continue this mans legacy

[@onemillionpercent]

I hope it dies with him, seriously. Miyazaki’s Ghibli >>>>>

[@diogomoreira4002]

I think Ghibli will disappear but the it's legacy will make another great ´animation studios rise because ghibli movies are trully inspiring and I myself felt inspired into being a film maker because of Ghibli (more like inspired once again because I had already given up on the idea). Hehe sorry to bother you with my opinion.

[@Alic4444]

@@diogomoreira4002 you're right

[@paozan4855]

@@Lemjanmusic actually takahata was Better than miyazaki

[@midnitepalace]

"I go to the movies for many reasons. Here is one of them. I want to see wondrous sights not available in the real world, in stories where myth and dreams are set free to play. Animation opens that possibility, because it is freed from gravity and the chains of the possible. Realistic films show the physical world; animation shows its essence." - Best movie review I've read and 100% relateable

[@YowLife]

Excuse me, you never brought up his misquote "anime was a mistake."

[@alinn.4341]

I think he was referring to "anime" as in this type of new age furry, cat girls, harem kind of trash. What Miyazaki has been doing is animation, and some of the best of it.

[@MohammadAli-iz9ld]

@@alinn.4341 Miyazaki's version of anime is hella different tho, and i personally prefer it

[@phantasiai]

ah the "quote" he never actually said

[@user-dr3pz4se4v]

Who made that meme anyways

[@SegaMegadrive]

@@alinn.4341 yeah I think he said that quote during some criticism on otaku culture

[@Nabium]

The surprising thing about Miyazaki is, I constantly hear a different movie mentioned when someone tells of their favourite Miyazaki film. I get why. They are all great, and they all have an individual charm. I think that must be incredibly difficult for a creator. My favourite director is Yasujirō Ozu, but in comparison his movie does not have the same variety and range as Miyazaki's. It's amazing to think about, that this man has created movies such as Ponyo, Howl's Moving Castle, Nausicaä, Totoro, Kiki's Delivery Service, Porco Rosso, Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away. They are all amazing movies, and they all stand so well on their own. My personal favourite is Ponyo and Howl's Moving Castle, they spoke to me personally in a distinct way, but I hold My Neighbour Totoro and Spirited Away as his best made films. But every single one of his films I could watch ten days in a row and not get bored. I remember I was in the hospital a couple of years ago, and I was finally getting well enough to start walking around a bit, and I found a room with a TV and the network showed Porco Rosso. Just by watching that I think I recovered two days earlier than I would have otherwise.

[@Stevem]

I do believe that's the quality of his film making is that they can all find such different audiences in such a universal way. I do think a lot people hold their first Miyazaki Film with a lot of compassion too as their Miyazaki movie. Ozu may not be as versatile, but he does have more limitations working within live action and with the style that he enjoys. Not a bad thing though you won't find many Japanese Directors as influential as Ozu even towards Ghibli's output. I'm a big fan of both Howl's and Ponyo. They are up there with Porco for me. Man if I was in the Hospital I would kill to watch some Porco Rosso, that would make the day a little smoother.

[@Lundy.Fastnet.Irish_Sea]

Honestly, with regards to Ghibli, I prefer Isao Takahata. His works are well developed story and animation wise. Although Miyazaki's works are more magical and bright, he has a habit of meandering through his story.

[@Radien]

I guess I'm not terribly interesting in that my favorites are My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away, the two films that most people cite as his best (although there is a large contingent of people who stand for Princess Mononoke, another good one). But yes, his films serve various purposes and usually do a fantastic job conveying an idea or a feeling.

[@rickc2102]

I'd never heard of the red pig before, so I'm definitely having one of those moments now 👍

[@humbleclay79]

My favorite is Howl's Moving Castle. It's like a piece of art, much like all of Miyazaki's other films, but this one is special to me for some reason.

[@adashofpaprika]

What I really love about his films in that they never create giant fandoms despite being overwhelmingly popular. Sometimes it's a good thing because when you get a fandom, you get things like fanart, fanfiction, and fan theories. There's nothing wrong with those, sure, but I feel like those kinds of things draw away from the point of the story. They all sort of break down the plot, the world it was created in, and makes it something everyone tries to dissect differently which it shouldn't Because his films to me feel clean and beautiful. Perfect as it is despite misgivings. There's nothing about them I would like to change in the slightest because the films, in their rawest, barest form, show so much emotion. When we lay out things on top of it that wasn't meant to be there, it feels sort of diluted and murky. It feels wrong. His films, remind me of acrylic paintings, wherein the canvas is rough with paint but still undeniably breathtaking. And those are usually left alone aren't they?

[@merrittanimation7721]

The lack of omnipresent shipping wars and creepy fanart is nice when discussing his films in comparison to any number of fandoms.

[@LucruxDCLXVI]

I'm of the mind that not only are fandoms inherently toxic but the media that spawns them generally are toxic as well, which is why I don't think there are fandoms surrounding the Miyazaki films.

[@otiosegrape3045]

@@LucruxDCLXVI what does "toxic media" mean

[@clariskitty7525]

Ghibli films are not really popular among my friends...

[@vandythevandy]

The fandom that does exist has been criticized by Miyazaki himself and he once said he felt like people ruined his characters and he couldn’t make young girls anymore because they were so hyper sexualized on the Internet :(

[@MrParagonical]

I think the reason why the characters feel cut from the same cloth is a difference in western philosophy and ideals compared to eastern. In the west everyone wants to feel entirely unique and special, without ever thinking that maybe we are a lot more similar than we are different. We are flesh and blood, our bodies are roughly the same when you break them down to the bare minimums, we all for the most part want to lead fulfilling lives. The eastern representation of people being more collective and homogenous, but at the same time slightly different can be seen in Miyazaki's works. A heroine that's completely out there and almost unachievable by the girls pushes those girls to reach for new heights; however, what about a very grounded, realistic, and almost "mundane" girl? A heroine that's just that, a girl that's growing up and facing similar problems of love, identity, and life in general. Catching a cold, feeling lonely, not understanding certain feelings and all those mundane and almost everyday things portrayed by an everyday character, makes it seem more relatable. At the same time that every single person is slightly unique in their own way, "Ghibli girls" are the same. They share two innate qualities that every human has: a sense of fear and courage to overcome fear. No matter how small the problems, there's always a little uncertainty, and we tend to ignore small problems in pursuit of the big pie. It takes courage to admit and address problems. I'm not saying it's always right to view collectivism as the only view, I'm just saying Japan tends to journey down this worldview moreso than individualism. At the same time Miyazaki shows that despite being a small part of a much greater whole, that you are the master of your destiny, and small changes and difference in people can become compelling.

[@simenmaasbach1561]

I liked Howls moving castle better then spirited away... idk why

[@allafields7667]

Spirited Away is too creepy to watch again although it's worth seeing at least once.

[@shuteye2702]

I like Spirited Away more. Moving castle felt like a fever dream lol

[@allafields7667]

@@shuteye2702 They are all fever dreams but in the best way.

[@allafields7667]

@EccentricSage I agree. Spirited Away isn't bad because it's more surreal, but I like plot and goal-oriented narratives.

[@jeromealday614]

@EccentricSage Oh no, The conflict of Spirited Away is not good vs bad. There's no real villain in the story.

[@a.holland2262]

I don't think Ghibli needs to survive. It kinda feels like it's fulfilled it's purpose. I love their movies, but I feel like it'll start going downwards if they continue. Like they'd over compensate

[@sofialaya596]

we'll see other studios rise up

[@Lundy.Fastnet.Irish_Sea]

Miyazaki's Ghibli has fulfilled its purpose, but I still would love to see more from Isao Takahata, if he was still alive.

[@TheMetastasia]

There are very few examples but there are. Hossoda did a few good movies in the last years, Shinkai did a really good piece of work with "Your Name" even if a lot of the appeal was due to his Art. I also personally like Trigger because they at least try something new.

[@nuggo2381]

That's depressing as hell to say, but yeah, you're right. sucks to say it though.

[@zaiten2012]

I'd rather see a Kiki trilgogy or Ponyo sequel done with their current ethos if that keeps them afloat. Otherwise, Disney is going to swallow them and milk the properties anyways with 3D reboots.

[@Alargator]

The ending in Kiki's Delivery Service was a massive relief to me as a child. I was so tied up in Kiki's struggle, her depression, her loss of power, that when she managed to dig deep (in a fashion that only anime can manage) and draw up -something- to save her friend... well, it probably avoided me being traumatized as a kid! A much slower, weaker, or less profound ending would've left things so sad, though small signs of improvement like Kiki smiling at work or nearly managing a bit of magic at the end, or something like that would've worked too I suppose.

[@Salami9898]

I never really liked the ending but I'm glad I saw your point of view

[@EleanorGrey13]

What I find the most beautiful about Miyazaki’s films is that, as you say, they all have a charm to them, and all some sort of sweet nostalgic feel. Everyone I ask has a different favourite movie that touches them personally - for you Porco Rosso, for me Howl’s Moving Castle, for my friend Ponyo etc. No matter who you are, an element of one of his films will connect with you. I find that really special.

[@reversal8250]

It's kind of sad that his studio is one of the only few that are able to produce whatever they feel like, it's going to almost guarantee that whatever they create is something out of passion rather than what follows the current trend. It's like he was given the best gift for Christmas but can't fully enjoy because Christmas that year sucks

[@starfox300]

How can anyone say anything negative about Miyazaki? This man has put out some of the most beautiful works of animation in history and his work will still be enjoyed by children and adults in a 100 years.

[@alterp5108]

Because he doesn't really seem to know what he is talking about

[@starfox300]

I think you don't know what you're talking about as Miyazaki has probably a hundred times more knowledge about this field than you.

[@ThPid]

I think Alter P was talking about the creator of this here video.

[@alterp5108]

Mangelbrei Chew nope, was talking about miyazaki

[@alterp5108]

starfox300 that's not exactly true plus it is his opinion that he seems to be selling as fact which is what ignorant people do

[@ww_artemis]

To me, Joe Hisaishi has a huge responsibility in the success of studio Ghibli. His compositions are divine.

[@tubeyou89119]

I think it's Joe's music that led me to Miyazaki's movies. My landlord played his CD and made me hooked and curious about where they came.

[@TalmoTheSell]

@@tubeyou89119same. I’m a huge film score buff and an aspiring composer, so when I first heard scores like Spirited Away I was super drawn to watching Ghibli movies

[@omgnowairly]

Voiceover cuts out at 12:00 for 30 seconds.

[@turdwallet8840]

omgnowairly I’m surprised he didn’t rewatch his video before posting it.

[@omgnowairly]

@@turdwallet8840 it may be an issue with encoding on youtubes side. If you change the video, you lose all your views and start over.. maybe it was too late by then.

[@joeyjoe7930]

I have a feeling it was done on purpose. Perhaps he made the video and then thought that part was not that good or important, or that his argument didn’t fit.

[@maxguichard4337]

@@joeyjoe7930 I have a feeling that it may be due to copyright reasons.

[@Aman123ace]

I'm pretty sure he got content id'd

[@Dronlothen]

Right. Anne of Green Gobbles. I remember that one.

[@moon_on_the_clouds]

Finally! A comment that mentioned this! Does it mean that Anne was a turkey in that adaptation??

[@rickperez5572]

i heard Anne of Green Garbles lol such a shame when bad things happen to good sentences

[@fireheadmx]

Along with Castle of Cagalistroe

[@j0an-07-arc6]

@@fireheadmx lupin the third is a classic

[@alfiemarshall9224]

LMAO ikr what a fucking ridiculous pronunciation

[@TheSwartz]

I usually don't like what I (and I assume others) may refer to as "artsy" movies. Usually not at all. HOWEVER, I absolutely ADORE every single Miyazaki film I've seen. Absolutely stunning artwork, wonderful music, top notch voice actors, charming characters, and always a timeless story that draws you in, makes you think and want to watch it again.

[@Darticus42]

Kim Kardashian Un Aren't most passionate works art? Or at least something that is more than just the sum of its value as entertainment. In that sense I'd say most of his films are artsy, but maybe not with some of the negative connotations associated with that word

[@shrivak]

It's the abstract endings that I don't like.

[@lenircotia]

His legacy should end with him otherwise the legacy would turn out like Star Wars.

[@darthdrake3095]

"Star Wars was a mistake" -George Lucas probabaly

[@Radien]

It took me a moment to realize you were referring to the new sequels (Episode 7 and on). I don't think Star Wars is a good comparison, because years before that, Lucas ruined the prequels by himself. Also, the original trilogy was arguably far more collaborative than the prequels, so it's clear to me that George Lucas was never the sole pillar keeping Star Wars aloft.

[@clark5317]

Radien I mean, half and half about the prequels. I personally really love them and hate the new movies. The original commentary is likely of the same opinion, and it turns out a lot of people do share this opinion, more than I'd expect. But you're still entitled to yours.

[@CriticsConfession]

George Lucas ruined Star Wars himself, shut up boomer

[@anon8740]

@@CriticsConfession How did he ruin it, exactly? The prequels were not as amazing as the OT but I think its plot added to the Skywalker saga and actually made the original trilogy's story even better. then the EU continuued to add and made really good stories too.

[@widgetfilms]

Nausicaa is my favorite of his movies. It bleeds with creativity.

[@allenholloway5109]

Make sure that if you haven't already, you read the manga. Miyazaki wasn't finished with it when he made the movie, and it isn't the full story. It's definitely heavy material, and not quite what I would call lighthearted, but it is the best work I think I have encountered, period. Once you have done that, watch Laputa, Castle in the Sky again. They share the same universe if you look closely, and the prophecy applies to both protagonists as well. (Though Castle in the Sky has a significantly lighter tone.)

[@kichapi]

I love Howl's Moving Castle for it's world-building and musical score (I cry over that one). It also hit me hard when I saw Sophie accepted her sudden 'aging' gracefully. I guess I have issues / fear for the future personally but that's what made it my favorite Ghibli film. Next is Ponyo. The underwater scenes are just wonderfully magical that I can't watch Little Mermaid again.

[@swrennie]

My eleven year old granddaughter is in love with Howl.

[@isbammoi3358]

Howl's Moving Castle is the most acclaimed in my heart. It's funny, I feel almost alone in thinking that Spirited Away pales in comparison to it, even though I love that movie as well.

[@Grace-tv9xc]

I Sbammo I you are not alone! When I was younger I never related to Spirited Away nearly as much as Howl’s Moving Castle. I have 3 younger siblings and my parents often worked so I had to be much more mature than most 10 year old girls. Another thing was that I never thought that I was pretty or lively, so I automatically assumed the role of an older person. Because of this I was able to deeply relate to Sophie who suffered a similar mental state until she was trapped in the body of an old lady, how she envisioned herself even when young. This made her finally realize that she was being foolish, and regretted not loving her life to the fullest when she was young. Every time she came to realize that, she turned a bit younger. I just felt so connected to her character and in combination with the magnificent art and a fantasy world so well written it feels almost real, Howl’s Moving Castle makes for one of the best movies of all time.

[@anhhuynhkimnguyen6793]

Me too. But mostly because Howl’s moving castle is the first one I actually remember, I just watched it so many times after the first time that it’s just engrained in my head, Spirited Away didn’t nearly leave the same impact.

[@user-fo1dk7hw4j]

I agree! I love both the howl will always be no.1 for me

[@Wired4Life2]

_Howl_ is my least favorite Miyazaki film.

[@fairoadiary]

BlueFox94 oof why is that?

[@UltravioletNomad]

Miyazaki reminds me a lot of Iwata. Despite taking a high role within their respective companies, they still see themselves as their product. It really shows, Nintendo and Ghibli don't tell the prefect story, but they've create some of the most compelling entertainment experiences in the world.

[@Evilriku13]

Just Iwata didn't trashtalk the people liking his arts/creations. Miyazaki did that aka the reason why this overused "anime was a mistake" meme stamps from :/

[@UltravioletNomad]

But he didn't. That was a fake caption from an interview were Miyazaki lamented that modern anime artist were building characters from old tropes rather than observing modern human behavior. A comment roughly translating to, "thats why the industry has gone completely otaku" Hes not mad that people enjoy his work, hes frustrated that his work has become the example for artist who'd rather recreate than surpass his achievements. Its an admit-ably harsh criticism coming from a man who occasionally struggles creating depth to his more fantastical characters. All those quotes of him disparaging otaku culture are made up. Its even properly clarified on the know your meme page, and yes I looked at it to clarify what the original quote was about. The man is a harsh critic, and very stubborn, but he does not resent his fans. I would argue that Iwata was a more open minded person, which helped lead to the greater strides in the technical side of his art from, and more creative freedom as a whole.

[@manusorourke3575]

Evilriku13 He never said anime was a mistake though

[@UltravioletNomad]

Ghibli has created some amazing worlds and experiences, but when it comes to the characters or sometimes plot motivations, its sometimes left for the viewer to fill in blanks. Ghibli movies seem to leave the viewer needing more context, which isn't always a bad thing. But that's what gives his comments on his imitators so much meaning, he knows that some of characters lack definition and seeing others make the same mistakes in character design, even revere them, has got to hurt.

[@Max-px5ym]

Miyazaki's only "problem" is to have sacrificed his family on the altar of his work. We are grateful. His son probably less so. It is what it is

[@Ostrichesarecool]

True man, I think about that sometimes how he really shouldn’t have a family for his type of work.

[@Serjohn]

i imagine this guy is the type of person that smells his coffee more than drinking it

[@Ismael-kc3ry]

Lmfao

[@juliaheidihorn]

I love this comment

[@LukSter18998]

yeah that’s hum

[@lucidexistance1]

I'm 36 and maybe an old school anime fan. It's um... Different now for sure. Never expected this kind of culture. My first anime's were Vampire Hunter D and Ranma 1/2 then of course Ghost in the shell flooded my animation and was the movie that opened up the gates to foreign films to me. But anime stayed near and when an anime was playing at the theater I had to go see it. It was Princess Mononoke and I remember seeing a plaque on the entrance saying "Even though this is an animation it is not meant for children" and I remember being astounded that someone had to make that. It wasn't printed, it was engraved. The theater wasn't packed, but enough people for me to be pleasantly surprised. I had to drag whoever came with me and I saw it alone once there too. But that's what caused me to look into Myazaki and there was a time after Howls moving castle that I had every Ghibli movie (maybe not officially) and they all helped during times of depression, which I'm realizing I've been struggling with my entire life. What I liked about his films was the hope of the human heart I saw in them and they always made me feel better and want to become a better person. I had also read the manga Nausicaa before then unaware that it was a movie. Oh what else... Oh yeah, for some reason I had always thought Howl's moving castle came out before Princess Mononoke, but I also confused it with Castle in the sky a lot. It took me a while to finally watch both because I kept seeing the same one thinking it was both and it wasn't until I had all the Ghibli films that I saw them all. Boy was I in a dark place then, I wish it wasn't the first or last time though thinknig about it...

[@iaincowell9747]

Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade Perfect Blue Akira Ninja Scroll Fist of the North Star A few of the first anime I saw. A TV channel where I live in the early 90's used to show a Hong Kong action movie followed by a anime late on Friday & Saturday nights. Also where I first saw Police Story, Bullet in the Head, A Better Tomorrow , Hard Boiled, Once Upon a Time in China.

[@Devo13]

51 here,I go WAY back.

[@jindrat8502]

For me old animes have just better graphic, like very much better. Have very strong feeling, that back then best people were drawing it mostly, today best people go to like game industry or even to different country and only mediocre, bad animators remain + outsourcing to other countries + bad 3D programs. Compared to 20 years of perfected Pixar software programs which anime are using are just amateurish cant say it otherwise... every second amateur on youtube can make better animations these days because have passion.

[@allafields7667]

Spirited Away warm and fuzzy? That movie scared the crap out of me.

[@pattonramming1988]

I felt like I needed a drug test after watching it

[@musaddiqanaqiyyah6733]

@Hanan Rukkiya a lot of people remember spirited away as a movie that they watched when they were kids, so it isn't surprising that they remember it as being scary

[@verastrobel5251]

@@musaddiqanaqiyyah6733 Exactly, my parents left me alone in a room watching it when I was 3 years old and I was TERRIFIED. I literally started crying when the parents became pigs lmaooo

[@eq8864]

@@verastrobel5251 it was scary when i was a kid, but when I've growed older, it became the most beautiful movie for me. I agree the intro and ending were really unsettling, and the ghosts are kinda scary, too. But the animation, storyline, and music was mesmerizing. Everythings felt like a hauntingly beautiful dream.

[@CreativeCreatorCreates]

It’s my favorite movie of all time. Yes, it’s very weird, but it’s magical. The spirit world IS weird. They captured it perfectly.

[@a-abelase9887]

5 weeks since I've watched The Wind Rises and I can't still see a video or picture of it without crying. Hell even thinking about it gets me every time. It touched some chords in my soul that I didn't even know existed and it left a mark that will never vanish. That's why it's my favorite film. Second place is Laputa: Castle in the Sky

[@user-ny4tu7cm8s]

Man , that moment when you realize that without him life is plain sad .

[@mrinvader]

devastating

[@vivvy_0]

without Pizza would be more tragic

[@princepeterwolf]

You deserve way more atention, this is a work of love. Incredible piece

[@Stevem]

Thank you for the kind words, the video is gaining a lot of steam and I have more on the way so fingers crossed

[@nahbirdie4773]

Stevem this video was incredible ❤ thank you for all the effort you've put in. Ill binge through your entire channel soon

[@YTSirBlack]

"Anime is a highly respected form of art and was not a mistake" ~ Shadow The Hedgehog 2017

[@Matheus-ki9zo]

*_n i c e c o c k_*

[@Ismael-kc3ry]

“How did you know Sword Art Online was my favorite anime?”

[@YTSirBlack]

@@Ismael-kc3ry i never asked

[@1973Washu]

Disney has a tendency to drain the life out of IPs that they get control of. Star Wars was originally a George Lucus project and his mark was clearly visible. But when Disney got their hands on it it was reduced to a form that would appeal to the lowest common denominator and all of the layered subplots that would be difficult for most people to process immediately evaporated. Rather than being movies you can watch multiple times and gain something new from the movie that you missed before with each rewatch the Disney version is instant gratification you only have to watch the movie once to gain everything it has to offer. Disney doesn't take risks and as a result, their movies are usually less rewarding. Occasionally there will be a stand out exception to this but it is unusual.

[@tigergirl305]

I dunno, man. I've watched The Force Awakens a million times and still enjoy it, and every time I find something new to love about it. Same with The Last Jedi. I've also learned to appreciate visuals and camera angles because of these 2 movies. I've learned about characters and storytelling. They help open up my creative side, in a similar way that Miyazaki's movies do. You can't speak for everyone

[@ClockworkAnomaly]

@@tigergirl305 I hope you dont try to learn from those movies- they are destructive and divisive in nature- dont follow that path.

[@tigergirl305]

@@ClockworkAnomaly The only destruction and division I've seen comes from the fanbase, lol

[@ClockworkAnomaly]

@@tigergirl305 A fanbase is a result of a product. That product happens to be the Star Wars Movies.

[@tigergirl305]

@@ClockworkAnomaly And when I watch the movies alone without considering the fanbase, I learn a lot of good things from them. And a lot of the fanbase is full of wonderful people. It's just the few that ruin it for everyone. It's like that with every fandom

[@moonlight_orange]

lol I still remember the 13 yr old me getting crazy over haku and howl. It's been... 9 yrs since I watched them both, they still are my favorites ❤️ Ghibli movies deserves to be known by the next generations to come!

[@Gamedenker]

Man you're really putting a lot of effort here, great work and please continue on making more great videos like this one.

[@Stevem]

I was thinking of doing something similar with other animation directors or even Japanese Musicians

[@Gamedenker]

I'm interested in seeing a video by you about the use of cg in anime and how it affects their quality.

[@Stevem]

There's a guy called Tommy Oliver's whose currently working on a series about CGI in anime, since he's a 3D artist his take would be better than mine . My problem with CGI in anime is I don't like that direction, I think I've seen CGI in anime that's worked like in Gurren Lagann , Summer Wars, JOJO part 4 (more or less) etc. It's even a great tool for adding elements and tieing a comp together. Ghost in the Shell 2 looks beautiful when it combines both 2d and 3d in a weird sort of way. As for 3d CGI anime they all make me feel sick, even that new one that people like. Something to do with the frame rate doesn't sit right with me, at least with Anime. Even in their films, I saw the trailer for Batman Ninja and I was repulsed. Same with any of the 3d Berserk stuff.

[@Stevem]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZpeopXqofcuXq6M This is the Tommy Oliver Series in question

[@DTM-Books]

This is an excellent video, great work. The only critique I would offer is that My Neighbor Totoro was not a box office success in Japan in 1988. In fact, the double bill of Totoro/Fireflies was the studio's biggest flop until My Neighbors the Yamadas in 1999. This is expected as anime was, as this video shows, was in the grips of "adult" hyper-violence and grittiness. Totoro required time to win over audiences, even in Japan. The toys were probably the factor in turning children into fans, as well as the home videos. Many great movies require time to build an audience. It used to be said that Kubrick's movies needed 15 years to age into fine wine, and that's also true with Totoro. Also, kudos for mentioning Horus, Prince of the Sun. I hope you've been able to score the Discotek Blu-Ray, which is great (cough, ahem). Also, Hakujaden definitely inspired Ponyo. I'm glad I wasn't the only one to point that out.

[@Stevem]

Thank you for the kind words, I had heard that they weren't making profits until Kiki, though I'd assumed the merchandising had done well enough to make it break even, but that's easier said than done. I would love to grab a Horus Bluray, but I'm at mercy of if its released in the UK or not. When I grab a new comp I might grab a region unlocked bluray drive just so I can. Yeah after watching Hakujaden I couldn't not think about the comparisons. I'm releasing a video on Takahata by the end of the day in a similar format, that guy needs more respect.

[@TheHobgoblyn]

Wow-- I never knew those two were released together. That has to be one of the worst marketing decisions I have ever heard of. Who is even the audience for that? Was the plan to lure in small children and then traumatize them?

[@KuraIthys]

It happened due to japanese cultural hangups. Realistically, Grave of the Fireflies only exists to make My Neighbour Totoro possible. The problem being that it was a cultural taboo to show the second world war, or the period immediately following it in a positive or light-hearted way. Hence the super-serious and depressing Grave of the Fireflies that fullfills the cultural expectations on depictions of that era, then the light-hearted My Neighbour totoro which was considered an extremely risky thing to do. Basically they were expecting a massive backlash against Totoro simply because of the era in which it set. To counterbalance the potential backlash and meet cultural expectations, Grave of the Fireflies was created. The double billing of the two together is also intended to further cement this idea. 'see? We didn't violate any taboos here. Please don't be angry with us for being whimsical about such a serious period of our history'. It's weird, and awkward, but it's something that was a big enough deal at the time that they felt they had no choice. Grave of the Fireflies is a film they didn't particularly WANT to make, but felt obligated to for cultural reasons...

[@TheHobgoblyn]

That doesn't at all seem right at all. I think you misread or misunderstood something. Japanese tend to avoid acknowledging that World War II ever took place, and when they do they regard the soldiers as national heroes and remain in denial of any crimes. Grave of Fireflies is the movie I would expect the backlash about as it depicts those who engaged the war as foolish and those who didn't participate as equally selfish and neglectful. It basically comes across that the whole thing was a crime against the youth of the nation. While simultaneously showing the wild, rebellious, delinquent youth of the eighties boom just how bad things were when their parents were growing up. But Totoro? There is nothing at all in Totoro that would even allow one to pin down exactly when it was set. It could have taken any time between when the bus system was introduced in Japan to when cell phones became common (i.e. about a decade after the movie was released). So unless the marketing or studio made a big deal about claiming it took place during World War II, I don't know how anyone could have gotten that impression at all-- much less for any backlash to form about it.

[@Stevem]

From what I know Grave only being possible because of Totoro is not true, it's the other way round. People approached Ghibli about making Grave and at first it was declined, but then it was proposed as a double bill and was greenlit. Now Totoro isn't suppose to be set in any particular time period I think one of the animators put in a book or something that was popular in the 50s so people assume that's when it's set, but that wasn't what Miyazaki intended. Although you can tell it is at least in a point beyond WWII, There is a calendar in the film that would place it in the mid 50s if that were true its a distant point from the War where the event would have no basis on it as a story.

[@jhonricroz805]

Miyazaki is really the reason why I want to be an animator or make an animated movie. His movies and the way they are attached to his personal life is what motivates me to be more interested in the animation field.

[@justincholos.balisang6884]

Ghibli films always gives me emptiness after I watch one. Wether it's a happy or sad ending, I always feel empty and lonely after I watch one. The Wind Rises is an example whose ending is bitter-sweet.

[@-chippedstars-2889]

I've always had an affection for every Ghibli movie be it Kiki or Mononoke. To me the way the stories are told, with vibrant animation and worlds, has always felt the most genuine. Sure Pixar and Disney make amazing movies, but they've never felt as warm and inviting as Ghibli.

[@weisprayz7452]

This was a really interesting watch. Thank you for putting this video together.

[@Stevem]

No problem, I'm working on a sort of follow up about Miyazaki's partner Takahata just about to start editing it.

[@weisprayz7452]

Stevem Im very much looking forward to that, notifs on. 😊

[@Stevem]

I'm going to try and get it done by my birthday which is in a couple of days

[@primatein]

None of them have more an emotional impact on me than Howl's Moving Castle. Maybe it's because most of my life I've dealt with loss, my grandma raised me, and the movie was just beautiful. It also helps that Christian Bale was Howl. Princess Mononoke is a close second for me. With it's deep connection with nature and spirituality. I also forget that Hayao didn't direct Whisper of the Heart of The Cat Returns (he wrote them), and I definitely consider The Secret World of Arrietty a Miyazaki film. It felt/looked like one of his films more than the other two I just mentioned.

[@stariadreamtea]

I agree. I loved Howls Moving Castle and Princess Mononoke. I felt that the latter was the most moving, had me in tears. I also felt the anger and pain regarding the way humanity has treated nature. It was really powerful. If you liked those another 'deep feeling' one was "Only Yesterday" that really got me. A masterpiece. "Whisper of the heart" and "The cat returns" as the unofficial sequel were also amazing. I found "Whisper of the heart" motivating and inspiring. Ponyo was the Ghibli film I found funny, happy and most fun. It's not as deep as the others, but it leaves you feeling good where many leave you feeling reflective or a little haunted.

[@lexxiii3444]

Miyazaki had given his legacy to the world by creating these magical and unique worlds. Growing up watching anime and other cartoons, his works were masterpieces. How they tug your heart strings, how we unconsciously recognize Studio Ghibli's classic music, or how lovable and unique his characters were, will always be influential and all the more awe-inspiring. I don't think there's a need to make sequels (from my experience from Disney sequels) because it might lose those factors that made the original, well, great.

[@Seekeron]

sometimes sequels makes the original more magical. I think miyazaki got it cause he's good at making great animation and stories of the movies. Some of his work left with a clif hanger and he probably wants to close the gap with a sequel there not many but he is a person with a great creative mentality

[@user-pf2hv8qw1s]

I don’t think it is a question of whether Ghibli should or shouldn’t continue. The studio is the people who worked there. But if someone picks up where Miyazaki left off and continues the effort to put out good, entertaining, insightful, and morally teaching cartoons for children, then why not under the studio Ghibli trademark? Animators are one thing, storytellers are another, writers still another, and even composers, all are needed to produce something as magical as the work produced by this landmark studio. We see old stories redone again and again because seemingly few brave and imaginative writers are left in the world, or filmmakers are too cowardly to risk their time and efforts on something novel. Well, what do I know, nothing... All I know is that when I am sick with a cold or flu, and I am forced to lay down and rest- if I have enough strength to watch a movie- none make me feel better than a good old Miyazaki film.

[@blahchop]

This video really deserves more views.. I'm happy to have come across this by accident. A basic but excellent homage to classic video biographies and an inquisitive slow paced view on the subject matter. Well done.

[@Stevem]

Thank you! I hope to make more in the future, I've so far only made two in this style. So far it's my most viewed video so I can't complain much it's still growing everyday as well

[@bundocke]

i’d like to say a quick thank you for acknowledging ponyo, simply because i’ve seen so many people wrongfully skip over it. it truly is a masterful piece that has stuck with me since i first saw over five years ago, and i’m glad that you found it important enough to take into consideration for your video.

[@elizabethheo]

Disney takes us to a twinkling fantasy world while Ghibli takes us to a moment we miss and longing to go back.

[@huaminwen9482]

This is simply amazing! Probably the first video I saw that covers the entire trajectory of Miyazaki's career. Great research insights

[@lordTouchmeace]

His mistake was one of the best mistakes in the entire history of the world.

[@saiiloo]

this is one of the best videos on the internet, i rewatch this video alot thank you.

[@saint_yves]

Today is Miyazaki Hayao's 79th birthday all the way in Japan! I would just like to truly thank him for his numerous Studio Ghibli works and contributions to the animation medium.

[@AnimeAddiction666]

Howl's moving castle is one of my favourite movies. I never knew there were these sorts of criticisms against it, I just thought it was wonderful, better than spirited away (which I also love).

[@KyleenDrake]

Mr. Miyazaki, thank you for the years of work you put into making movies such as Spirited Away, Howl's Moving Castle, My Neighbor Totoro, Kiki's Delivery Service and many others. They are near and dear to my heart. I enjoy them immensely with my family. Everything you touch is gold. At least in my household. No matter where Stuido Ghibi goes now they'll have you as an inspiration. I have full faith that it will continue to thrive. Not everyone wishes for your departure from the entertainment world. Not everyone feels as if you've given your best and you've nothing else to give. Thank you for your hard work. I look forward to seeing what Studio Ghibli offers next. With or without your involvement.

[@thedaintypeach1997]

i really loved this!! thank you for talking about this-i’ve been discussing this w myself all my life

[@BeingGraceDivine]

thanks so much for putting this together. i learned a lot and enjoyed that and your comments.

[@deadbeataffiliates]

My boy, this was awesome from start to finish; thank you for taking the time to put this whole video together! I can really tell you put a ton of time and love into this script, it naturally shows in your voice and delivery throughout. You really brought back a lot of warm memories for me, reflecting on all his past projects. Again, great job on the awesome video bro, and you deserve way more subs for this. *You know what to do, people. Just subscribe to this dude, he's making qc, and it doesnt hurt you at all* *THANK YOU BASED GOD*

[@bubblesharm29]

I really liked this style of video and the topics discussed, also your voice is very calming and fits well with the video. Do continue to do more! #support

[@Stevem]

Working on a video as we speak about an Unreleased Ghibli Little Nemo, hoping to get it out reall soon

[@aks.u365]

I enjoy your narration very much, and this was your first i had come across. Every time i relisten, i'm pulled into this story lullaby where all is serene. Thank you.

[@RedPatriarch]

To think that Miyazaki's legacy will die with his work is short-sighted and callous. His work will live on in the inspiration and wonder that it provided to everyone that watched it.

[@paolomenuez1901]

Miyazaki is definitely an auteur, perhaps even an "authoritarian" creator, but I like him for his dictatorial ways. When I watch one of his movies it feels like a genuine act of personal communication between creator and consumer in the sense that I really get to understand how he views the world, what he finds to be beautiful, what strikes him as true, etc. as an individual. Despite the huge team sizes and gigantic budgets, Miyazaki's films always manage to be extremely personal, and I think that in itself is a rare accomplishment. If this makes his films flawed because they are uneven or even occasionaly one-dimensional in their execution so be it. Perhaps this only works because I find Miyazaki's personal take on the environment, growing up, nationalism, war, the creative process to be very engaging. Otherwise, he would be an intolerable, artisitic tyrant. Creative process via large-scale collaboration certainly has its merits, but it is an entirely different animal. I like Pixar, but to me their movies feel so focus-tested, so polished, so engineered by a committee that they can feel a little cold, you don't know who you're "communicating" with. Some kind of creative hive mind, I suppose. In the end, just apples and oranges, I guess, but I'll take a flawed individual at the helm make flawed interesting stuff any day. What I personally love about art, in general, is its capacity to bring two minds into a kind of communion, albeit in a limited, and skewed way. Nonetheless, I believe Miyazaki is skilled at helping me experience the beauty he personally experiences, to share in his love of flight or nature, the glories of the world in motion, the terror and sublimation of war or the utter devastation of failure and heartbreak. When I saw Porco Rosso for the first time (also my favorite), I choked up simply looking at a shot of that crimson plane flying over the Adriatic with the light shining through the clouds. The sea is heartbreakingly lonely, painfully gorgeous and overwhelmingly vast. That whole movie is like an ode to the Mediterranean world. But it is the Mediterranean he sees, the world of aviation he imagines, a fantasy to be sure, but a truly beautiful one. Through his films he shares this vision and I can partake. For that I am grateful. Ponyo suks tho, that movie is sacchirine AF :-p

[@DSan-kl2yc]

Paolo Menuez well studio Ghibli is a small studio..miyazaki might have immense sway. But a lot of the men are his friends and collaborators. I don't think I've seen proof of him being that way. He's harsh and blunt. But he's let others direct. He's asked others to direct. I don't know how the process is. But to me someone letting another person have control isn't being dictatorial.

[@Rudenbehr]

“Darker animation of the 80s” *Shows devilman crybaby* I love you.😂

[@captaincloudsuperhero6869]

Great Video! I appreciate the way you referenced his films without spelling out plot details! I’m working my way through the Ghibli catalogue and trying to avoid spoilers, so much appreciated!

[@martinramirez21]

Humility is important, but he's too harsh on himself.

[@crowkingv6410]

Nice delivery! Glad it popped up in my suggested.

[@jrgilbert]

Thanks for this. I think sometimes we judge Miyazaki with our preconceived notions of what is right or acceptable, but he creates as he sees fit...and I'm thankful for that. This part of his film forced or this part jarring or too many loose ends never tied up. Who cares? It's Miyazaki. Don't like it, watch something else. He has created a respect and aura that has taken on an existence of it's own, but again so what. Other directors, rightfully so, accept it. He has different rules. He is called master by those that know better the world over. Is he a God, no. But in the world of animation, maybe. That's ok. He's getting old. He won't be with us too much longer. That makes my heart sink. I don't care about his flaws as a person, a father or director. I care about the uncanny ability of his works to resonate on a level that very few others simply can't. I do have a few films here recently that do touch my heart in their own way that approach the Studio Ghibli greatness...A Letter to Momo, Summer Wars and Your Name. Hosoda is one place I will head once Miyazaki truly calls it a career. Really I will just keep looking for great animated stories where ever they may come. They will be there. No one can be Miyazaki's successor. Miyazaki is Miyazaki and all other directors are who they are and I'm grateful for that. I will just miss Miyazaki tremendously...horribly. Sigh.

[@etherealvalkyrie2641]

A year late to the party, but thanks for putting this together. My fiancee and I thoroughly enjoyed it this Christmas night of 2019. Gotta love the man and his passion for the craft of superb story-telling.

[@defski]

Eyyy! It's back :D Congratulations dude

[@Late0NightPC]

There was a strange audio bug at 11:20, where the voice cuts out and just leaves music, only to start back up at 12:20, despite there being clear stuff happening in between. I can't say I am a fan of Shinkai being called the next Miyazaki. The animation they make is beautiful, but they aren't like Miyazaki in terms of story telling. I always found those movies to be really bland, as they all cover the same topic(love) from different angles, but when I want to see a beautiful animated movie, I don't want to see that because of how limited your experience is with it, I want to see something gorgeous and breathtaking visually, which anyone can understand. Miyazaki makes things that are breathtaking enough for anyone, of any age, to enjoy it(my father can attest, he still adores Totoro and is willing to watch it any chance he can, in the same way the young children of friends love it), while Shinkai's works are all somewhat of a VIP club. Sure it looks nice, but you only really understand the movies if you already understand what they are about, which not everyone can do. While there is a market for that kind of thing, what the title of "next miyazaki" implies about a person is absolutely not what Shinkai does best.

[@loweman25]

surprised there aren't any other complaints about this

Yeah I felt that as well. My mum doesn't really watch anime, but her face will light up when talking about Spirited Away or Howl's Moving Castle. I still get teary when listening to the movie soundtracks, while getting that warm fuzzy feeling the creator of this video talked about as well. Whereas 5 cm per second per example felt like a large clusterfuck of nothing really happening mixed in with nice animation. I ultimately couldn't grasp the message the movie was trying to convey and thus the movie felt long and boring to me. While Miyazaki also often covered the concept of love in his movies, the message he was trying to convey managed to reach me, while Shinkai's works often left me confused and unwilling to dive back in to find the message.

[@ClockworkAnomaly]

Same

[@jalsol]

same, the storytelling is the thing that makes Miyazaki animes stands out people be saying Your Name is beautiful, yet I don't really get the feel, something that I usually get from Ghibli stuff

[@hannajmendoza8080]

Same, I love how realistic the movies like Your name, the garden of words etc.,but the story line isn't like Miyazaki. If the next Miyazaki comes, he should be able to tell a story like Miyazaki.

[@FinlayFosterReviews]

Absolutely phenomenal video my man! A brilliant study on the works of Miyazaki!

[@Stevem]

Cheers, I like the format I want to make more docu-essay vids in the future

[@LS__14]

To me the little details and scenes that Miyazaki meticulously add in is what really gave that “realistic” touch which makes it so much more beautiful to the viewer. There’s meaning in everything. and it sticks with you. I think the special thing about Spirited Away and frankly, all Studio Ghibli films, is that when you think back to the movie, you find yourself realizing it was almost as if you were in THAT WORLD yourself. as if you were pulled into that reality of magic. it gives you a nostalgic feeling of warmth as if you actually went into that adventure w Chihiro... away from your own reality. I think Studio Ghibli always gives those vibes after watching, no matter what setting. Wether its a world of magic, or a city in the old times, an old traintrack in Japan, a rusty boat, a gloomy forest, or whatever setting they convey, whatever it is, it’s always almost as if you were there too.

[@renanissler6081]

that's an awesome video, Stev. great work on researching and well written script. estructurated and illustrated, nice editing. wish you strenght to keep on. :))

[@Skanda1111]

Wind Rises is a masterpiece. A biography in animation. That's rare.

[@hassanalamri2665]

thank you so much you remind me my childhood days which is the best that I have.

[@Stevem]

No problem glad I could help

[@JumpdeArt]

Very well done! Loved hearing your thoughts and analysis

[@miapusedu7353]

very well done! :) This video took me back to watching these movies when I was younger, might have to binge them all haha!

[@Stevem]

UPDATED version HERE- kzbin.info/www/bejne/a5-9lYR3nbV6bs0 GHIBLI PLAYLIST- kzbin.info/aero/PLyhSewr7iiMTT6OSZQ42oKR6MPIqOgwj9 Just some corrections My Neighbor Totoro was not a box office success in Japan in 1988 it quite a long time for it to break even off merchandise and other releases. Must of payed off in long run as Totoro became the face Ghibli. EDIT 1: Yes I understand I said Gables wrong I'm terrible, might of wrote it wrong on the script what can you do. I have talked about it and watched it since, in my Takahata video where I pronounced it right. So crisis averted. EDIT 2: I like Howl's Moving Castle! I think it has issues, but overall I might well like it more than Spirited Away EDIT 3: The Caproni Ca.309, the plane Ghibli was named after was a Transport aircraft not a fighter. EDIT 4: I did say Cagliostro wrong too which is on me that's just how i've always said it, but ADAPTION is a real word and is grammatically correct.

[@LOCKEYJ]

Stevem I dunno- garbles is kinda funny. Don't worry we all have blindspots

[@Stevem]

Yeah I get it I just wish everyone would upvote one comment on it, instead of getting 5 separate comments on it a day

[@user-do5zk6jh1k]

Another correction is that Ghibli gets its name from an Italian transport aircraft. Not the newer jet fighter.

[@Stevem]

Oh okay I knew it was a world war II plane, but it was a transport opposed to a fighter I see now.

[@hirofujimaki7006]

The plane itself was named after the Lybian word for "Wind from Northwest", which makes it all even more poetic.

[@21owlgirl72]

I remember watching Porco Rosso as a small kid then Castle in the Sky, after that i had a fascination of aircraft and it blossimed my love for flying machines and dieselpunk. I wish i could meet him one day and thank him.

[@SoulSoundMuisc]

I was nine years old when I saw Naausica on VHS. My father rented it, because I was sad that we were going to have to move across the country for some very unpleasant reasons, and he hoped it would cheer me up. He's always had a good eye for art and story, and he thought he would give it a go. We couldn't really afford to rent a movie, but he and I sat up and watched it with popcorn and the lights out, and we drank the last of his vernor's ginger ale. I was stunned speechless. Positively floored. I had never in my life seen animation like that, art like that, or a story told that way. That film hit me hard in so many ways. It left its mark on me. It left its mark on me so much, that now that I'm a grown man, I purchased the film and a stuffed teto for a friend's daughter that I've never even met in the hopes she will enjoy it as much as I did and be captured by its whimsy and touched by its wonder. There are other works by Miyazaki that are equally or more acclaimed, but Naausica is my first true cinematic love.

[@maila2359]

man you are awesome, I love your content so much, just made my day seriously

[@sweetoldetc]

I remember reading an interview between Yoshiyuki Tomino and Hideki Anno, and it's interesting that they talked about how Miyazaki seem to "act cool" and not willing to fully reveal himself as a director/artist. They talked about how the protagonist of Porco Rosso was made in Miyazaki's image, and I can totally understand why Tomino and Anno had issues with that. While the film does deal with past trauma/tragedies and Miyazaki does have a sense of self-deprecating humor by making the protagonist a pig, I couldn't help but notice how much Porco Rosso's character takes it's cues from iconic WWII film protagonists from the Golden Age of Hollywood cinema, like Rick Blaine from Cassablanca. Porco Rosso is an idealized version of Miyazaki, a stoic, badass WWII ace pilot caught in a love triangle between 2 women. According to Tomino and Anno, it took Miyazaki 20 more years to make a film where he was fully willing to be his raw self, completely naked and exposed. Unlike Porco Rosso, the protagonist of "The Wind Rises" is not romanticized. You are looking at a story of a very flawed human being who was a considered a genius. The film doesn't sugar coat or hold back in showing the protagonist's flaws, his personal regrets and the ugly side of pursuing one's dreams and legacy. You are looking at Miyazaki's life as is, stripped from the kind of embellishment you saw in Porco Rosso. There is no true happy ending, and the good and bad, the legacy and the regrets are shown side by side with equal weight behind them. I just thought that this could explain some of the flaws mentioned in the video. Miyazaki is no doubt a creative genius, but sometimes I do get the sense that he is trying very hard to be an serious artist preaching very lofty philosophical ideas... and I can totally relate to the notion that Princess mononoke protagonists lack humanity feels less relateable because of that.

[@samoyedsil]

Right, with the Original Gundam and Evangelion, you can feel that those were imbused with Tomino and Anno's world view on humanity, war, Japan and Japanese society, and other things, showing all the political machinations and the thoughts of the characters on the war and society and the fuck up situation they are in amidst all those cool mecha action. Miyazaki work's on the other hand feels like he's very reserve on being an active judge. Even with 'The Wind Rises', what people called his most personal film, Miyazaki was like "I really really REALLY love Zero's... too bad they actually use it in, you know, WWII..." and show this genius that's like " I just wanna make the best plane, well the army gave me big money so that's cool I guess", with no comments on the IJA and the Japanese society and political situation that led to that tragic point.

[@bannyaroy2497]

I don't realize why ppl criticize howl. It's an amazing movie, and wonderful in its own unique way. There's no need to compare it with spirited away

[@erufailon4723]

I'm happy that you mentioned the Nausicaä manga in the video. Of all Miyazaki's works, it's the one that has impressed me most (heck, it's the only entry on Anime News Network encyclopedia that I've rated "masterpiece") and is arguably the pinnacle of the brilliance of his storytelling.

[@Skanda1111]

Ponyo is beautiful. The sea rising as they drive by the narrow country roads is one of the best animations ever drawn. For me the Miyazaki masterpiece is A wind rises. Never before have I ever thought of a biography made in animation. Thank you for making movies Mr Miyazaki:) You're a national treasure.

[@michaelofmanitoba3844]

I think you've really touched on something here. Disney's success is its collaborative excellence per codified standards. Ghibli is essentially a genius' vanity studio.

[@Stevem]

Michael of Manitoba I will say takahatas film are less strict on this than Miyazakis. He's not draftsman so he lets his team have more creative control while guiding that vision. As the years went by they wanted to move away from one key artists, but a lot of new talent left, died or didn't want to be in the spotlight.

[@gnarthdarkanen7464]

For what it's worth, here's the crux of why I think it might be unfair to compare Ghibli, headed mostly by one man, to Disney, a veritable industrial complex of animation... This vid' (for one instance) even points out the various changes in stylings through the various ages of Disney, and even that it might come with audience oriented and technical advancements, "signs of times", it reflects that more base and bigger teams crank out more divergent and sometimes even more inconsistent content over the "one captain of the ship" sense of Ghibli. Sure, there are lists of films done or guided by single directors from Disney's boastful shear mass, and maybe picking just one or even two of those directors to compare alongside might do a better job of illustrating just how collaborative giants are far and away different from smaller entrepreneurial entities. Personally, I would hope there was room for more entrepreneurial efforts to build independent studios and occasionally draw together to build a larger or grander ideal, maybe cross-overs (for starts) to fill out niches that animation in general has yet to even consider... BUT we are hopefully seeing some of that just alongside some of the remaining giants of that golden age when animation was yet to be particularly valid to much of the world. I worry occasionally about getting too far ahead of myself. ;o)

[@MASSIF101]

And this why Studio Ponoc now exists

[@AJ627]

Even if they stop making movies, I hope the name and legacy will still live on and will be remembered for countless generations. While Mary and the Witches flower isn't on the same level as a film from miyasaki, it still captures the same magic you see from the studios animation.

[@Stevem]

A.J. Gutierrez im sure the legacy will continue as Disney's has in the west .Miyazakis films have a timeless quality to them

[@Jedihho]

Fantastic video dude! I thought it was amazingly informative, and educational. And I love it! You earned yourself a new subscriber! :)

[@Szu-lul]

Thanks for the video, really well made :)