Hayao Miyazaki: The Simplistically Complex Creator

One of the great Japanese animators of all time, Hayao Miyazaki is well known for his animation movies, namely Spirited Away, Howl's Moving Castle, Princess Mononoke, and many more. Not only does he illustrate and animate his films, he is the author, screenwriter, director, and producer of his films. His works have a unique innocent or child like quality to them which is inlined with the magnificence and complexity of nature is truly refreshing to watch. With his classic animation techniques and, for some of his films, a touch of computer animation, it quite a surprise to see that he continues to survive in the age of advanced computer animated movies. What is also surprisingly interesting to watch is the process in how he created these masterpieces. In the documentary film, "The Kingdom of Dreams and Madness", we get a sneak peak on how the master animator works in Studio Ghibli. He reveals that he doesn't follow a script and makes up the scenes as he draws it. It is also a surprise to himself how will the film go about since he recognizes this as a separate living entity. He is inspired by his everyday experiences for the films and that gives the authenticity of the films despite of it's fantastical nature. He is a very private man and that he lives alone in his humble abode. He loves the simple things in life and that he finds that the actions of children the most timeresting themes. In his works, he presents this purity the most authentic way possible, through the tiny details. He shows even how the characters tie their shoes and other habits. But as his interns and artists talk about working with him, they mention that it is very difficult because they have to be intune with his ideas and perspectives. They must not just draw what is possible but Hayao's vision and fantastical ideas. The challenges of innovation also plays a big role in the Studio Ghibli. They face problems with the pressure of innovating at the same time mentioning their traditional style. Hayao dislikes using his creations for capitalistic gains, to which is problematic to the maintenance and longevity of the company. There is a tension between earning money and creating for art. This struggle is also revealed in his movies with the characters going against the negative effects of technology, innovation, and capitalism. The duality on the nature of his very work plays as both a trigger for creativity and a hindrance. He truly is an artist to be watched.