When discussing anime, one name that comes up almost immediately is Hayao Miyazaki. The legendary anime creator has been producing some of the most beloved and critically acclaimed anime for decades now. He is considered to be one of the greatest anime creators of all time, with his works often exploring themes of childhood innocence, environmentalism, and the power of friendship.
His works have also been praised for their unique and often philosophical messages. If you haven’t watched Miyazaki’s pieces of art, here are 10 of Hayao Miyazaki’s greatest anime, and the philosophical meanings behind them.
1. My Neighbor Totoro
My Neighbor Totoro is a classic Japanese anime about two sisters who move to a rural area and discover the forest spirits living there. The anime is a celebration of childhood innocence, and teaches viewers to be more aware of their environment and to appreciate the small joys of life. It also emphasizes the importance of friendship and family, and reminds viewers to stay connected to their childhood roots.
The film is both a coming-of-age story and a celebration of the beauty of nature and the bond between children and nature.
The film conveys Miyazaki’s belief that humanity is part of a larger natural world, and that we should strive to protect and nurture it. Totoro is a representation of the natural world, and his presence in the film is a reminder of the importance of preserving and cherishing the environment. Miyazaki has said that the film is about believing in the unseen and that it is a story about hope and courage in the face of adversity. He also said that he wanted to create a film that would make children laugh and cry, and that it should be something that parents and children could watch together. My Neighbour Totoro is a reminder that we are all connected to the natural world, and that it is up to us to protect and nurture it.
2. Kiki’s Delivery Service
Kiki’s Delivery Service is about a young witch who moves to a new city and must learn to use her magical abilities to help people. The anime teaches viewers to be brave and take risks, and to use their talents to help others. It also explores the power of friendship and how it can help people overcome their fears.
3. Spirited Away
Spirited Away is a fantasy adventure about a young girl who is transported to a spirit world and must find a way to return home.
The main theme of the film is that of transformation and growth. Chihiro goes through a massive transformation as she learns to adapt to her new environment while also growing in maturity and understanding. She discovers the importance of respect, courage, and selflessness and learns that she can be strong when faced with difficult situations. The film also conveys the importance of respecting the environment, with the main characters learning that their actions can have an effect on the world around them. Ultimately, Spirited Away is a powerful reminder of the importance of growth, understanding, and respect.
4. Princess Mononoke
Princess Mononoke is a fantasy epic about a young prince who must save his kingdom from a cursed forest.
The film is an exploration of the relationship between nature and humanity, and how humans must learn to live in harmony with the environment. It also serves as a warning against the dangers of human greed, and how unchecked development can have disastrous consequences for the environment and its inhabitants.
The movie also serves as a reminder that all life is connected, and that any disruption of the balance between nature and humanity can have devastating consequences. Princess Mononoke serves as a thought-provoking reminder of the importance of respecting and protecting the environment.
5. Howl’s Moving Castle
Howl’s Moving Castle is a fantasy adventure about a young girl who is cursed and must find a way to break the spell. The anime explores the power of love and how it can be a source of strength and courage. It also emphasizes the importance of believing in yourself and never giving up. Join the canadian online casino and enter a new world of entertainment.
6. Ponyo
Ponyo is a fantasy adventure about a young boy who befriends a magical fish and must help her return to the sea. The story is a celebration of childhood innocence, and teaches viewers to be more aware of their environment and to appreciate the small joys of life. It also emphasizes the importance of friendship and how it can help us through difficult times.
7. The Wind Rises
The Wind Rises is a historical drama about a young engineer who dreams of building airplanes. The story is a thoughtful exploration of ambition and the pursuit of one’s dreams. It also encourages viewers to never give up and to always strive to achieve their goals.
8. Castle in the Sky
Castle in the Sky is a fantasy adventure about two children who must save a mysterious castle from destruction. The story is an exploration of courage and the power of friendship. It also teaches viewers to believe in themselves and to never give up.
9. Porco Rosso
Porco Rosso is a fantasy adventure about an ex-WWI pilot who is cursed to look like a pig. The story is a celebration of individuality and encourages viewers to embrace their uniqueness. It also explores the power of friendship and how it can help us through difficult times.
10. The Secret World of Arrietty
The Secret World of Arrietty is a fantasy adventure about a family of tiny people who must protect their home from danger. The story is an exploration of courage and the power of friendship. It also emphasizes the importance of respecting nature and living in harmony with the environment.
Hayao Miyazaki’s works are filled with philosophical messages, and undoubtedly leave viewers with plenty to think about. With his unique style and inspiring storytelling, Miyazaki is sure to remain one of the most beloved anime creators for years to come.
