Hayao Miyazaki

Synopsis

A richly illustrated journey through the extraordinary cinematic worlds of beloved filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki

A New York Magazine 2021 holiday gift guide pick

For over four decades, Hayao Miyazaki has been enchanting audiences of all ages. His animated films, often featuring children navigating unfamiliar and challenging worlds, offer timeless explorations of youth and what it means to grow up. Celebrated and admired around the globe for his artistic vision, craftsmanship and deeply humanistic values, Miyazaki has influenced generations of artists. The universal appeal of his evocative natural settings and complex characters, many among them strong girls and young women, cuts across cultural boundaries.

This book is published on the occasion of the 2021 inaugural exhibition at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles, in collaboration with Studio Ghibli in Tokyo. It accompanies the first ever retrospective dedicated to the legendary filmmaker in North America and introduces hundreds of original production materials, including artworks never before seen outside of Studio Ghibli's archives. Concept sketches, character designs, storyboards, layouts, backgrounds and production cels from his early career through all 11 of his feature films, including My Neighbor Totoro (1988), Kiki's Delivery Service (1989), Princess Mononoke (1997), Spirited Away (2001) and Howl's Moving Castle (2004), offer insight into Miyazaki's creative process and masterful animation techniques.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Early Years

Miyazaki's childhood in Japan during World War II shapes his later work. His fascination with airplanes and the natural world is evident in his early drawings.

Example: "Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind" (1984) features a young princess who flies a glider to save her people from an environmentally ravaged world.

Chapter 2: The Animator and Filmmaker

Miyazaki joins the Toei Animation studio and works on influential anime series such as "Heidi, Girl of the Alps" and "Future Boy Conan." In 1985, he co-founds Studio Ghibli, which produces acclaimed films.

Example: "My Neighbor Totoro" (1988) depicts the friendship between two young sisters and a magical forest spirit, Totoro.

Chapter 3: The Master Storyteller

Miyazaki's films are known for their complex and compelling narratives. They often explore themes of environmentalism, pacifism, and the power of imagination.

Example: "Spirited Away" (2001) tells the story of a young girl who travels to a magical spirit world and must find her way home.

Chapter 4: The Visual Virtuoso

Miyazaki's films are visually stunning, with detailed animation, vibrant colors, and imaginative landscapes. His characters are often drawn with expressive eyes and fluid movements.

Example: "Howl's Moving Castle" (2004) features a steampunk setting with intricate architecture and a moving castle that resembles a dragon.

Chapter 5: The Cultural Icon

Miyazaki's films have become beloved worldwide, inspiring generations of fans and fellow filmmakers. They have been recognized with numerous awards and are considered masterpieces of animation.

Example: "Ponyo" (2008) grossed over $200 million globally and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

Chapter 6: The Legacy

Miyazaki's work continues to be celebrated and studied. It has influenced popular culture, including video games, music, and fashion. His animated films stand as enduring works of art that captivate audiences of all ages.

Example: The Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Japan, showcases Miyazaki's films and animation techniques, attracting over 2 million visitors annually.