I had the opportunity to attend a SeedTalk event at Exeter Phoenix led by Dr. Rayna Denison. As she delved into the history of Studio Ghibli, I found myself transported into a world where art isn't just about beauty but about storytelling.
Denison shed light on the creative minds behind Studio Ghibli, notably Isao Takahata and of course, Hayao Miyazaki. Takahata's influence, rooted in classical children's tales, served as a catalyst for Miyazaki's wonderous imagination.
A key takeaway was Miyazaki's approach to storytelling through storyboards, which he considered the essence of his animation. Unlike the conventional three-part structure, Miyazaki employed a five-part narrative, infusing each film with his personal interpretation of the story. Miyazaki's films were initially presented as double bills with other cartoons to ensure audience engagement but quickly surpassed the need for any such boost.
One cannot discuss Studio Ghibli without acknowledging the contributions of artists like Oga Kazuo, whose background art lent depth to Miyazaki's fantastical worlds. In the pre-digital era, cell animation was the norm, with intricate drawings layered to create visual masterpieces. One of the hallmarks of Studio Ghibli's films is their portrayal of "fantasy scapes" and pastoral landscapes. These settings, often on the cusp of modernisation and industrialisation, are meticulously crafted, with familiar technological elements integrated into the scenery.
Makiko Futaki's contributions, particularly in nature scene animation, reflect Studio Ghibli's environmentalist ethos. Through her work, Futaki encapsulates the studio's reverence for nature and its intricate beauty.
Denison also highlighted Studio Ghibli's commitment to realism, sending artists to real forests to ensure each depiction was unique. This attention to detail underscores Miyazaki's belief in infusing magic into everyday life.
Music also played a pivotal role in Miyazaki's films, with Joe Hisaishi composing soundtracks based on concept art. The process was collaborative, with music and visuals intertwining seamlessly to evoke emotions in the audience.
Denison observed that while making "Porco Rosso," a team comprising of seven women had to take charge because the men who usually led the project were occupied with other commitments. Consequently, this film can be considered as the most feminist film in the studio's history.
Beyond filmmaking, Studio Ghibli is a multifaceted entity in Japan, engaging in various ventures such as video games and advertisements. Miyazaki's further advocacy for gender equality is evident in initiatives like double-sized women's toilets and a creche for employees.
Dr. Rayna Denison's talk provided invaluable insights into the creative processes and philosophies that have made Studio Ghibli a beacon of artistic excellence. From storytelling and animation techniques to embracing equality, Studio Ghibli continues to captivate audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the realm of cinema.
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