The genius combination of Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli has produced some of the most iconic anime movies of all time. People from every region enjoy his movies and feel an uncanny connection to them. His movies are a getaway from all the worldly chaos and go into the world of fantasy. Hayao Miyazaki’s magic hands have never fallen short.
But there is a strong possibility that these magic hands will stop working shortly. If this happens, this will be a huge shock for Studio Ghibli and the millions of fans all over the world. Recently, Hayao Miyazaki made an appearance during the San Sebastian Film Festival through a video. His iconic look is no longer with him. It gave rise to the possibility of him leaving Studio Ghibli much stronger.
Hayao Miyazaki’s Acceptance Speech At The San Sebastian Film Festival
The San Sebastian Film Festival takes place every year at Donostia-San Sebastian, Basque Country, Spain. In 2023, it happened from 22nd September to 30th September. During that time, Hayao Miyazaki made a special appearance through a video. He said, “Thank you to the San Sebastian Festival for this prestigious award. Right now, I am in the studio every day creating exhibitions for the Studio Ghibli Park. I hope you enjoy the film. Thank you very much.”
At first, the fans could not recognize him. For decades, Hayao Miyazaki had kept his iconic facial hair. But to everyone’s astonishment, he had shaved it all. Fans could recognize him through his white apron that he prefers to wear. Hayao Miyazaki has given several hit movies in his career, including Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, The Wind Rises, My Neighbor Totoro, etc. After working for several years, fans think that this could have been his last acceptance speech.
Is Hayao Miyazaki Retiring?
The latest movie of Miyazaki is The Boy and the Heron. It was released on 14th July in Japan and is yet to be released in Western countries. Hayao Miyazaki had previously mentioned that this would be his last film, and then he would retire after that. Fans think his beardless look is a sign that he will finally leave behind his studio days.
On the other hand, a faction of people believe that Hayao Miyazaki might return yet again because this is nothing new for him. In the past, he has planned for his retirement several times, yet he always returned with another iconic movie. Many speculations claim that he has already started to visit the studios for another project.
The majority of Studio Ghibli’s rights have been acquired by Nippon Television, so there is a doubt whether fans can see the iconic duo together or not. But for the moment, Miyazaki’s has returned to his plain look and is enjoying his free time.
Source: Comicbook