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Hayao Miyazaki’s name is associated with endless creativity, beauty, and the human condition. As a co-founder of Studio Ghibli, he has transformed the world of animation by creating masterpieces that transcend countries and generations. However, while many filmmakers similar to his caliber assess their success through awards such as the Oscars, Miyazaki’s aspirations extend far beyond prizes.
Instead, the legendary animator revealed a deeply personal and existential goal: to craft films that touch the“soul level”of children. But what does this“soul level”actually mean? Let’s look at the idea behind his storytelling, the difficulties he sees in the world, and how his films aim to give future generations hope and meaning.
Hayao Miyazaki’s true legacy: A vision beyond awards
In an introspective interview with Xan Brooks viaThe Guardianin 2005, the iconic filmmaker, Hayao Miyazaki disclosed a deeply personal and philosophical objective behind his storytelling. When Miyazaki speaks about his work, it is evident that prizes such as theAcademy AwardforSpirited Awaydo not motivate him. Instead, his major goal is to create films that speak to the deepest part of the soul of a child. In his own words,
I believe that children’s souls are the inheritors of historical memory from previous generations. It’s just that as they grow older and experience the everyday world that memory sinks lower and lower. I feel I need to make a film that reaches down to that level. If I could do that I would die happy.
In his films, children frequently serve as protagonists, bridging the gap between the past and the future. Whether it’sChihiro fromSpirited Awaygoing through the spirit realm or Ashitaka fromPrincess Mononokeaddressing the effects of industrialization, these characters bear the weight of history while also offering the possibility of regeneration.
Miyazaki’s philosophy stemmed from two different worldviews: a deep pessimism about the direction of the world and an unyielding optimism for what art can achieve.
“Studio Ghibli would sink”: We Will Never Get To See Hayao Miyazaki’s Truly Serious Movies That Will Doom Anime’s Greatest Pioneer Studio
This contradiction is evident in his works. On one hand, his films deal with the darker aspects of human nature; from greed and destruction to environmental degradation. On the other hand, they celebrate beauty, compassion, and the interconnectedness of all living things. This balance allows his stories to resonate on a deeper emotional level; offering both a warning and a blessing to the audience.
The role of movies in a troubled world
Despite his belief in the power of storytelling,Hayao Miyazakiremains skeptical about the broader influence of film as he still believes that, it doesn’t always have life-changing powers unless it’s related to patriotism or warlike themes. Yet, he tempers this skepticism with a glimmer of hope.
Thus, Miyazaki’s ultimate goal as a filmmaker transcends conventional metrics of success. His commitment to creating stories that touch the soul and bless future generations reflects a profound understanding of art’s potential to shape humanity.
This vision of Miyazaki to reach the soul of children despite his cynical worldview highlights his unique perspective as a creator who understands the limitations of art yet strives to push its boundaries. EveryStudio Ghiblifilm is imbued with Miyazaki’s philosophy; fromMy Neighbor Totoro‘s innocence and connection toSpirited Away‘s growth through adversity.
“This won’t make a good movie”: Hayao Miyazaki Didn’t Believe His Most Controversial Studio Ghibli Movie Was Ready to Be Filmed That Almost Won the Oscar
For Miyazaki, reaching the“soul level”of children is not just an artistic aspiration, but rather it is his way of planting seeds of hope in a world that often seems too gloomy. And perhaps, as he himself reflected on, that is the greatest legacy an artist can leave behind.
Spirited Awayis currently available to watch on Netflix.
Moumita Chakraborty
Articles Published :931
Moumita Chakraborty is a seasoned Anime Writer at FandomWire with over 900 published articles. Passionate about the vibrant world of Japanese anime, she brings sharp analytical skills and cultural insight to every piece. From dissecting intricate plotlines to spotlighting the latest trends and releases, Moumita’s work resonates with both casual fans and seasoned otakus. Her writing aims to connect with fellow anime enthusiasts while contributing meaningfully to the ever-growing anime community.
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Hayao MiyazakiSpirited AwayStudio Ghibli
