Member-only story
The Art That Inspires Studio Ghibli and Vice Versa
Ecology, magic, and stunning landscapes. What inspired Studio Ghibli?
The beauty of Japanese Animation and the art of Miyazaki
For generations, Japan has captivated millions with its rich culture, history, aesthetics, and cinematic marvels. As a Singaporean, thoughts may veer to the haunting memories of Japan’s invasion and occupation of Singapore, but that’s a tale for another time.
Movies hold a special place in my heart, although I largely deal with literature and the fine arts in my daily life. Nonetheless, one cannot ignore the brilliance of Japanese cinema and its diverse offerings.
While Asterion might lean towards discussing the entirety of the Gojira series, my focus lies elsewhere, steering towards a magical journey through Japanese cozy animation. Specifically, let’s delve into the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli and Hayao Miyazaki.
Studio Ghibli, the renowned Japanese animation powerhouse, has captured hearts worldwide with its captivating tales blending reality with the fantastical. At the core of Ghibli films lies their adept use of magical realism, seamlessly infusing ordinary settings and characters with extraordinary elements. From flying witches to enchanted forests, Ghibli’s creations transport viewers to mesmerising worlds where the line between the mundane and the magical blurs.
In Ghibli films, magical realism takes on various forms, often rooted in Japanese folklore and mythology. For example, in “Spirited Away,” a young girl embarks on a surreal journey through a bathhouse for spirits to rescue her parents. This realm, bustling with supernatural beings, exists parallel to our own, hidden yet intricately connected.
Similarly, “My Neighbor Totoro” introduces us to friendly forest spirits in the idyllic countryside, blurring fantasy and reality as they interact with human characters in…
