Human Touch vs. Machine Magic: Miyazaki and the AI Ghibli Debate
- Fairy Gada
- Mar 31
- 3 min read
The internet is buzzing with Ghibli AI art, fueled by its GPT-style creations and the debates it sparks about authentic artistry.

AI-generated art in the style of Studio Ghibli is becoming increasingly popular. This trend is driven by advancements in AI image generation technology, making it easier for anyone to create visuals reminiscent of Hayao Miyazaki's iconic style.
Seeing the other side of the coin, recent news surrounding Hayao Miyazaki has largely centered on the resurgence of his strong opinions regarding AI-generated art, particularly in light of the current trend of AI generating "Ghibli-style" images.
This trend has, in turn, brought renewed attention to Miyazaki's previously expressed disdain for AI-generated animation. His criticism stems from his belief that AI cannot replicate the human emotion and experience that are essential to creating meaningful art.
Miyazaki has expressed that AI generated images do not show the pain that living things experience.
The video of Hayao Miyazaki expressing his strong criticism of AI-generated animation was originally recorded in 2016. The clip is part of the NHK documentary series "NHK Special: Hayao Miyazaki — The One Who Never Ends.
It's important to note that while the video is from 2016, it has recently resurfaced and gained renewed attention due to the current surge in AI-generated art, particularly images created in the style of Studio Ghibli.
About Hayao Miyazaki:
Hayao Miyazaki's legacy rests on his dedication to hand-drawn animation and the powerful human connection woven into his art.
His career took root at Toei Doga in 1963, where he began as an in-between artist, working on early films and television series. However, the constraints of in-between animation sparked a desire for greater artistic expression.
This drive led to his involvement in labor activism, where he met future collaborator Isao Takahata.
A pivotal moment came in 1964, when 'The Snow Queen' reignited his passion for animation during a period of self-doubt.
Yasuo Ōtsuka's mentorship proved invaluable, and on 'The Great Adventure of Horus, Prince of the Sun,' Miyazaki's talent shone through in his roles as chief animator, concept artist, and scene designer. Ōtsuka's influence shaped Miyazaki's artistic approach. His work at Toei laid the foundation for his future success, culminating in his departure from the studio in 1971."
Following his time at Toei and other studios, Miyazaki, along with Isao Takahata and producer Toshio Suzuki, co-founded Studio Ghibli in 1985. This marked a pivotal moment, allowing him greater creative control over his projects
Studio Ghibli became synonymous with Miyazaki's distinctive style: lush, hand-drawn animation, captivating storytelling, and themes that often explore environmentalism, pacifism, and the complexities of human nature.


More facts about Hayao Miyazaki:
His father worked in aviation, which heavily influenced his films, many of which feature themes of flight.
"Ghibli" comes from an Italian word meaning "hot desert wind," and was also the name of an Italian aircraft.
He began his career at Toei Doga, where he met his long-time collaborator, Isao Takahata.
Early in his career at Toei Doga, he was involved in labor disputes, showing his strong sense of social justice.
Miyazaki is renowned for his dedication to hand-drawn animation, even in the age of computer-generated imagery.
His films often explore themes of environmentalism, pacifism, and the strength of female protagonists.
Miyazaki has announced his retirement multiple times, only to return to create more films.
Beyond films, he has also created manga, most notably "Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind", which then became a movie.
His most recent film "The Boy and The Heron" has gained very high critical acclaim, and shows that even late in his life, he is still producing master works.
"At 83, Hayao Miyazaki made history as the oldest director to receive an Oscar nomination in the animated feature category.
Has won 2 Oscars- Hayao Miyazaki has won two Academy Awards.
"Spirited Away" (2003):for Best Animated Feature.
"The Boy and the Heron" (2024): for best animated feature film
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