The Incredible Legacy of Hayao Miyazaki

Director Hayao Miyazaki is one of my personal favorite directors. His work is unique, inspiring, and will forever be impactful. It is hard to find filmmakers with such consistent quality among their work. Every film Miyazaki has worked on feels wholly unique and special. Despite some cultural attitudes that animation is for younger audiences, Miyazaki has proven time and again that animated films can have as much depth, meaning, and maturity as live-action. In fact, I would argue that his films nail the complexities of the human spirit better than any live-action film I’ve seen. Truly, his work in cinema is remarkably significant.

I recently completed a rewatch of Miyazaki’s films (all except for Lupin the Third) and I was quickly reminded why I love his films so much. Every one of his films feels significant. Even if I like some more than others, I still respect the work he did and the story he was trying to tell. Castle in the Sky is one of my lower-tier Miyazaki films, but even a lower film from him is still great. If anything, his first two films show just how skilled he was early in his directing career.

My rewatch also confirmed for me that Kiki’s Delivery Service, one of Miyazaki’s most underrated works, is in my top five films of all time. The way this film portrays independence and the insecurities and struggles one faces as they grow older is astonishing. It is amazing that a film marketed towards kids actually has more significance and meaning for the adults in the audience. Even something like Ponyo tackles themes that would fly right over kids’ heads.

I fully believe that everyone can get something different out of a Miyazaki film. His films cover a wide range of themes and emotions. There is something relatable in each of his stories. The characters and worlds he brings to life will live on forever. One of the best parts of hand-drawn animation is the timeless quality of the medium. Miyazaki’s early films look better than some CG animated films from recent years. My Neighbor Totoro from 1988 still looks incredible today. The level of detail in these films is amazing. They’re an absolute treat for the eyes.

The greatest aspect of Miyazaki’s films is his characters. Each of his protagonists feels real. They deal with real emotions and actually feel like layered, complex people. Even the children in his films act and feel like real kids. Miyazaki captures the spirit of people and the struggles they deal with, something other animation studios and filmmakers can’t seem to nail. A great example of this lies within The Wind Rises. The film’s protagonist, Jiro Horikoshi, isn’t the typical lead character. He is very reserved and subtle. Everything he does in the film feels completely in character. When Miyazaki sends characters through a journey, whether emotional or physical, he makes sure to reflect it through character. This makes it much easier for audiences to connect with his stories.

I really hope that Hayao Miyazaki is able to finish his last film. He is a gifted storyteller with a powerful body of work. Until then, I will continue to revisit his films and encourage others to do the same.

Be sure to follow us on Twitter @TheCinemaSpot and on Instagram @thecinemaspot_