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There are very few filmmakers who can openly discuss the negatives of their home country while also creating work that feels like a very personal love letter to its culture, history, and ethos. Hayao Miyazaki, the legendary Japanese animator and storyteller, represents this paradox.
In an interview about Princess Mononoke, Miyazaki openly discussed the reasons why he is “not interested in Japan as a state.” The comment drew eyebrows, especially considering Princess Mononoke is perhaps his most violent and politically charged film as the story tries to portray Japan’s past, present, and future.
A love letter from Hayao Miyazaki to Japan’s past and future
In a 1997theater program interviewabout Studio Ghibli’s most famous filmPrincess Mononoke (Mononoke-hime)Hayao Miyazaki discussed while talking about his country Japan, In the past, humans showed hesitation when taking lives, even those of non-human creatures.
This restraint was rooted in the sorrow of necessity, as people understood that life was fragile and precious. Over time, however, society has evolved. Humans, as they grew stronger and more capable, became more arrogant, losing that sorrow and instead embracing the idea that they could take lives without consequence.
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“I think that in the essence of human civilization, we have the desire to become rich without limit, by taking the lives of other creatures,”Miyazaki added. He then described, Historically, the Japanese held a special reverence for nature, particularly places untouched by human hands. However, Miyazaki feels that over time, Japan has lost touch with this profound relationship with nature. He said,
We have lost it. I’m not interested in Japan as a state. But I feel that we have lost our core as the people who live in this island nation. I think that it was the most important root for the people who have been living on this island.
In the end the solution, Miyazaki suggested, is to humble ourselves, recognize our destructive impact, and approachenvironmental issueswith the understanding that we must begin anew, acknowledging our responsibility to all life.
Ashitaka: The melancholic hero of modern Japan
Hayao Miyazakidefined Ashitaka as a“melancholy boy who has a fate.”Cursed by Tatari Gami, Ashitaka is forced to leave his peaceful village and face the outside world, where industrial expansion disrupts the harmony of nature.
Ashitaka embodies a duality that reflects Miyazaki’s perspective on modern Japan. While he shoulders a curse that symbolizes humanity’s exploitation of nature, he also seeks understanding and harmony. This duality mirrors Miyazaki’s own acknowledgment of Japan’s industrial achievements alongside the irreversible damage they have caused to the environment.
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Despite his disinterest in Japan as a state, Miyazaki’sPrincess Mononokeis a heartfelt exploration of the country’s cultural and ecological legacy. It examineshumanity’s impact on nature, the complexities of progress, and the value of coexistence.
Through its multifaceted characters and concepts, the picture goes beyond conventional tales of good versus evil, offering a timeless meditation on the issues confronting both Japan and the world. In doing so, Miyazaki delivers not only a cautionary tale but also a celebration of Japan’s enduring spirit.
You can streamPrincess Mononokeon Netflix.
Moumita Chakraborty
Articles Published :930
Moumita Chakraborty is a seasoned Anime Writer at FandomWire with over 900 published articles. Passionate about the vibrant world of Japanese anime, she brings sharp analytical skills and cultural insight to every piece. From dissecting intricate plotlines to spotlighting the latest trends and releases, Moumita’s work resonates with both casual fans and seasoned otakus. Her writing aims to connect with fellow anime enthusiasts while contributing meaningfully to the ever-growing anime community.
