About Studio Ghibli
The story behind one of the world's most beloved animation studios.
The Beginning of a Legacy
Studio Ghibli was founded in June 1985 by directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata and producer Toshio Suzuki following the success of Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind. The name "Ghibli" was chosen by Miyazaki from the Italian word for "hot desert wind" — the idea being that the studio would "blow a new wind through the anime industry."
Their first official film was Castle in the Sky (1986), which established many of the themes and visual elements that would become hallmarks of Ghibli productions. The studio gained significant recognition with My Neighbor Totoro and Grave of the Fireflies, both released in 1988, showcasing their range from whimsical fantasy to profound historical drama.
"The concept of portraying evil and then destroying it - I know this is considered mainstream, but I think it's rotten. This idea that whenever something evil happens someone particular can be blamed and punished for it, in life and in politics, is hopeless."
"I've become skeptical of the unwritten rule that just because a boy and girl appear in the same feature, a romance must ensue. Rather, I want to portray a slightly different relationship, one where the two mutually inspire each other to live - if I'm able to, then perhaps I'll be closer to portraying a true expression of love."
"The creation of a single world comes from a huge number of fragments and chaos."
"Always believe in yourself. Do this and no matter where you are, you will have nothing to fear."
"Life is suffering. It is hard. The world is cursed. But still, you find reasons to keep living."
Artistic Philosophy
Studio Ghibli's approach to animation is defined by meticulous attention to detail, hand-drawn animation, and stories that respect the intelligence of their audience.
Respect for Nature
Many Ghibli films explore the relationship between humans and the natural world, often advocating for environmental conservation and harmony with nature.
Complex Storytelling
Ghibli films often feature nuanced characters and morally ambiguous situations, avoiding simplistic good-versus-evil narratives in favor of more realistic complexity.
Strong Female Characters
The studio is known for its portrayal of independent, courageous female protagonists who drive the narrative and undergo meaningful character development.
The Art of Animation
Studio Ghibli is renowned for its commitment to traditional, hand-drawn animation in an era increasingly dominated by computer-generated imagery. While they do incorporate digital techniques, the foundation of their visual style remains rooted in meticulous hand-crafted artistry.
Miyazaki is known for being heavily involved in the animation process, often drawing thousands of frames himself. This hands-on approach extends to the entire studio, where attention to detail is paramount—from the subtle movements of characters to the intricate backgrounds that bring their worlds to life.
The studio's distinctive visual style is characterized by vibrant colors, detailed landscapes, and fluid movement that creates a sense of wonder and immersion. This commitment to quality over quantity explains why Ghibli produces films at a deliberate pace, often taking years to complete a single project.
Global Impact
From Japan to the world, Studio Ghibli's influence extends far beyond animation, touching art, culture, and environmental awareness globally.
Cultural Recognition
Studio Ghibli achieved international acclaim when "Spirited Away" won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2003, becoming the first (and to date, only) hand-drawn and non-English language animation to win this award.
Their films have been distributed worldwide by Disney, introducing Ghibli's unique storytelling to global audiences and influencing a generation of international animators and filmmakers.
Artistic Influence
The distinctive visual style and storytelling approach of Studio Ghibli has influenced countless artists, animators, and filmmakers around the world, from independent creators to major studios.
Beyond animation, Ghibli's aesthetic has inspired fashion, architecture, video games, and other art forms, demonstrating the studio's far-reaching cultural impact.
Memorial
Honoring the legacy and achievements of Studio Ghibli through the years.
A Journey Through Time
Explore the key moments in Studio Ghibli's history that shaped animation forever.
Studio Ghibli Founded
Hayao Miyazaki, Isao Takahata, and Toshio Suzuki founded Studio Ghibli after the success of Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind.
Totoro & Grave of the Fireflies
Two contrasting masterpieces were released in the same year, showcasing the studio's range.
Spirited Away Released
The film became the highest-grossing film in Japanese history and won an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.
Miyazaki's Retirement
Hayao Miyazaki announced his retirement from feature filmmaking after completing The Wind Rises.
Miyazaki Returns
Hayao Miyazaki came out of retirement to direct How Do You Live?, his final film.
Studio Ghibli Founded
Hayao Miyazaki, Isao Takahata, and Toshio Suzuki founded Studio Ghibli after the success of Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind.
Totoro & Grave of the Fireflies
Two contrasting masterpieces were released in the same year, showcasing the studio's range.
Spirited Away Released
The film became the highest-grossing film in Japanese history and won an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.
Miyazaki's Retirement
Hayao Miyazaki announced his retirement from feature filmmaking after completing The Wind Rises.
Miyazaki Returns
Hayao Miyazaki came out of retirement to direct How Do You Live?, his final film.
Continuing Legacy
Though Miyazaki has announced retirement multiple times, the studio continues to evolve while maintaining its commitment to quality storytelling and animation.
The Next Generation
Gorō Miyazaki, son of Hayao Miyazaki, has directed several films for the studio, including "Tales from Earthsea," "From Up on Poppy Hill," and "Earwig and the Witch," carrying forward the studio's legacy while developing his own directorial voice.
Ghibli Museum
The Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Tokyo, opened in 2001, serves as both a showcase for the studio's work and an interactive space that brings the magic of animation to life for visitors of all ages.
Digital Preservation
The studio has embraced digital distribution platforms, making their films more accessible to global audiences while ensuring their artistic legacy is preserved for future generations.