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Studio Ghibli stands as an iconic studio in the world of animation, delivering stunning films that have left an indelible mark on global audiences and the anime industry itself. Although the co-founder of Studio Ghibli, Hayao Miyazaki has often addressed his ambivalent feelings about mainstream anime and the culture surrounding it, he still approaches the industry with a level of respect and rivalry that mirrors his own standards.
This year, Hayao Miyazaki’s son revealed how his father regards other animators, including those working on popular series likeOne Pieceas worthy rivals; regardless of their age or standing. His statement hints at the complex relationship Hayao Miyazaki has with both his industry peers and the larger anime landscape.
Goro Miyazaki’s Statement on His Father’s Relentless Work Ethic
In 2024, Studio Ghibli received the prestigiousHonorary Palme d’Orat theCannes International Film Festival, marking a historic achievement as the first company rather than an individual to receive this honor. Due to the absence of Hayao Miyazaki, his son Goro Miyazaki accepted this award. In this event,he shed lighton his father’s next project, albeit without offering any concrete details.
Hayao Miyazaki: ‘It’s just busyness’ on Disney Butchering One of the Best Studio Ghibli Movies Without His Consent
Hayao Miyazaki, despite his age and his everlasting legacy, maintains an air of secrecy and an intense passion that leaves even those closest to him in the dark. When asked about his next project, Goro Miyazaki stated,
He won’t tell anyone. He won’t ever tell. Even at that age, all the animators around him are his rivals, whether they are younger than him, the staff who support him, whether they are inside or outside the company.
Miyazaki’s secretive working style reflects a long-standing rivalry with animators both inside and outside Ghibli. He approaches every artistic choice as a strategic move in a broader, continuous competition with industry titans, making each project a highly confidential venture.
While Miyazaki never addressed series likeOne Piecedirectly, He is well aware of the world’s most beloved anime series and its impacts. Despite hisoutspoken disapprovalof much of contemporary anime and “Otaku” culture, he would never dismiss the cultural influence of the creators and the animators of the major anime franchises.
Hayao Miyazaki’s Rivalries with Other Creators in the Industry
It’s not just Hayao Miyazaki, the entire anime industry is involved in fierce competition with one another; but not out of animosity, but rather respect. In 2001,Yoshiyuki Tomino, creator ofMobile Suit Gundam, publicly encouraged the next generation of animators to surpass Miyazaki’s legacyby stating,
Everyone, please work hard to crush Miyazaki! I can’t do it anymore…Young creators shouldn’t take this lightly. You can’t surpass Miyazaki or One Piece without truly dedicating yourselves.
Miyazaki also implicitly encourages this competitive spirit by continuously polishing his craft, unbothered by his age or legacy. His rivalry is rooted in respect as he recognizes that for anime to evolve, it requires a push from creators with ambitious, larger-than-life visions.
On the other hand, this confidential approach of Hayao Miyazaki also reflects a legitimate concern about plagiarism within the industry. He views originality as crucial and expects the same standard from other creators, which drives his respectful rivalry with heavyweights of the industry.
“He isn’t a bad guy”: Hayao Miyazaki Proved Americans Aren’t Dumb as Hollywood Likes to Believe That Made Studio Ghibli Global
Hayao Miyazaki‘s love-hate relationship with anime is rooted in a desire to see the medium flourish. While he may be critical of certain anime trends and unrealistic stereotypes in the anime medium, his cautiousness of the industry and respectful rivalry with popular franchises reflect an understanding of the creative dedication required to leave a lasting impact. He holds every creator to the same high standard, creating an environment where respect and rivalry coexist.
Studio Ghibli movies are currently available to watch on Netflix.
Moumita Chakraborty
Articles Published :930
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.
