Hayao Miyazaki Wins Oscar: Hayao Miyazaki, the mastermind behind some of the best anime movies ever produced, has finally achieved his second Oscar, which he should have received a long time back. The first time he was rewarded with this prestigious award was in 2003 for the wildly successful Spirited Away.
But, we all know no amount of accolades are enough to praise the works of a storyteller of his calibre. Hence, let us appreciate some of his beloved works that will put you in a good mood to celebrate his win. I have tried to avoid the obvious choices like Howl’s Moving Castle or Princess Mononoke, which are already very famous, and picked some works that need more recognition.
Hayao Miyazaki Wins Oscar: 7 Films of Miyazaki That Will Win Your Heart
Spirited Away
Yes, I know, I said I would not select the obvious choices, but I just could not help adding this gem of a movie here. This is one of the most respected and loved films ever for all the right reasons. It also won countless awards, Oscar being one of them.
Here, we see the adventure of a hero for whom you want to root for her inner strength as she fights to save herself and her parents in an unnatural world. But other than all these, this is also a breathtaking piece of art where every frame bursts with colour and detail. From the towering bathhouse to scary monsters, it’s a feast for the eyes.
Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind
Do you want a strong independent princess who does not wait for the prince to be saved? Well, you are at the right place. Nausicaä is a warrior princess who can kick the butt of her enemies and protect her people.
The film takes place after an apocalypse, and the landscapes are a stunning mix of lush, green pockets of survival and toxic wastelands. But amidst all this, we get epic battles with airships and giant insects. And did I mention that it has some of the best background music that makes you transport to Nausicaä’s world?
Castle in the Sky
Castle in the Sky has a special place in my heart as a personal favourite since the first time I watched it.
Here, you will witness a bond form between Pazu, a boy full of dreams, and Sheeta, a mysterious girl with a connection to the heavens. It is a dangerous time, and their friendship blossoms amidst threats and an epic journey.
But do not be mistaken, it is not your simple adventure story. It’s a steampunk masterpiece with airships and robots straight out of a Victorian dream. You get flying cities, forgotten lands and a world that blends history with fantasy!
Porco Rosso
Porco Rosso does not get enough appreciation, and I am here to promote this movie for all the awesome reasons that it carries. Porco, our leading man, isn’t your average pilot. Nope, he is actually cursed with a pig’s head. But this does little to dampen his morals as he fights for what’s right with a gruff charm.
Sure, there are thrilling aerial battles, witnessing which you might want to become a pilot yourself. But Porco Rosso is also about honour, love, and finding your place in the world. Honestly, it just tugs at the heartstrings as much as it excites.
Kiki’s Delivery Service
This anime is the definition of a movie that can literally heal your heart. In a world of wholesome witches, Kiki is a young witch who sets out on a journey.
This is because all the witches must leave home and travel far as a part of tradition and build their own lives somewhere else. But can a girl who knows very little of the world, manage to live with just a cat as a company?
Kiki’s Delivery Service makes you hopeful about independence and self-growth. You feel the urge to leave everything behind and settle down in a peaceful town where you can just be happy and content.
The Castle of Cagliostro
We all heard about Lupin, but this is not the same gentle thief from Maurice Leblanc’s series. This character here is actually the grandson of the original Lupin created by Monkey Punch, a Japanese mangaka.
And in Cagliostro, we see Lupin III’s charming side, who falls for a damsel in distress. But it’s not just a romance escapade of the rogue. Along with romance, we get a satisfying blend of action, humour, and clever tricks, keeping you guessing until the very end.
So, if you’re looking for a thrilling heist with a dash of romance and a touch of Miyazaki magic, this one is for you.
The Wind Rises
Miyazaki normally does not dabble in romance, but when he does, no one can match him. Yes, this anime is obviously about a man with dreams in a war-trodden time, but he is not without love.
Jiro’s journey to design the best flying machines intertwines with a sweet romance. But their happiness is tinged by the tragic shadow of war and illness.
The animation is breathtaking, yes, but it doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of destruction.
Here, are some of my picks, which ones do you like, comment down below.
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