Founded by directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata and producer Toshio Suzuki, Studio Ghibli quickly became one of the most globally renowned animation studios in history. The films animated under the banner of Studio Ghibli are known for rich storytelling, deep emotional impact, visually striking animation, and more. However, above all else, most of the films center around resilient and complex female heroines. This is especially prevalent in Miyazaki’s works, who always makes his female leads shine the brightest. Whether it’s the all-time classic Spirited Away or Howl’s Moving CastleMiyazaki’s protagonists are often young women who embody courage, empathy, and resilience in the face of overwhelming challenges.
While the male characters also have significant roles in his films, his way of representing female characters is second to none. In fact, there’s a beautiful yet heartbreaking reason behind it. The Observer shared a deep insight into Studio Ghibli, exploring its past, Miyazaki’s works, and the future of the studio. According to the article, Producer Suzuki shared that the reason Miyazaki is more interested in portraying women instead of men is because of his mother.
Hayao Miyazaki Drew Inspiration From His Mother in His Films
A Japanese-born psychologist, Dr Ryota Kishi, said, “Miyazaki felt very protective of his mother.” He continued. “And I see his films having an underlying self-hate, underlying repentance, guilt, shame; all those things that a nation that is not traditionally open to talking about healing is still dealing with. That’s why some of us really get into a sort of therapeutic space while watching these films.”
Producer Suzuki also mentioned that Miyazaki’s mother and her illness appeared regularly in his films. Regarding Satsuki and Mei’s mother in My Neighbor TotoroSuzuki said, “That’s his own mother.” Expanding on his statement, the Producer explained, “She is why he really wanted to portray women in film rather than men. He is more interested in women.
The sisters in My Neighbor Totoro move to the countryside with their father to spend more time with their mother, Yasuko, who was recuperating in a hospital. Since she spent all her time in the hospital away from the bustling city, the sisters spent most of their childhood without her. Despite the distance, Yasuko’s bond with her daughters remains unshakable, and she always tries to be there for the girls, even if it’s through letters or occasional meetings.
Miyazaki drew inspiration from his own mother, who suffered from spinal tuberculosis for years and was bedridden throughout the course of her illness. It’s not just My Neighbor Totorobut even in The Wind RisesNaoko Satomi suffered from tuberculosis, yet her endurance and acceptance of fate make her one of Ghibli’s most poignant heroines. The illness isn’t shown as some kind of tragic plot device, but as an essential human experience with heartbreaking realism.
Miyazaki’s heroines are the most defining hallmark of his storytelling. Which female character is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
