THE WORLDS OF HAYAO MIYAZAKI: The Influences and Inspiration Behind the Iconic Films

THE WORLDS OF HAYAO MIYAZAKI: The Influences and Inspiration Behind the Iconic Films
NICOLAS RAPOLD
Frances Lincoln Ltd (non-affiliate Bookshop.org link)
$35.00 all editions, available now

Rating: 5* of five

The Publisher Says: An in-depth collection of the rich influences and sources of inspiration behind one of animated cinema’s all-time greats, and Japanese cinema’s most popular cultural export. Explore the inspirations behind the work of the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, one of animated cinema’s all-time great creators.

Often called the godfather of animation, Miyazaki is able to imagine and populate worlds like no other director or animator. His films, from My Neighbour Totoro to the Oscar-winning Spirited Away and The Boy and The Heron, are deeply original, each conjuring up their own complete and entrancing version of reality.

This book journeys through the rich mix of cultural, historical and artistic influences that shape Miyazaki’s storytelling. From Japanese folklore and childhood memories to architecture, classic cinema, literature and political commentary, it reveals how Miyazaki’s deeply personal vision creates layered worlds that somehow feel both fantastical and grounded in truth.

With insight into his process, visual language and recurring themes—including nature, flight, girlhood, resistance and renewal —The Worlds of Hayao Miyazaki offers fans and film lovers a deeper understanding of the imagination behind the magic.

A celebration of creative freedom, storytelling without limits, and the enduring power of animation.

I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.

My Review: If you are not a Miyazaki fan already, this book could make you one. (But seriously, how can anyone not be a fan after seeing Spirited Away?) I'm willing to bet most all of us have at least one film fan, animation fan, Japanese-culture maven, in our gifting circle. Any of them will appreciate this beauty.

what we'll see on the journey

I'm sure we're all aware of animation's tremendous popularity. A safe bet to give a teen giftee is this lovely, immersive story of how the art of Miyazaki sprang from th art Miyazaki has seen and spoken lovingly about.

The publisher doesn't offer lots of spreads for publicity, understandably, but there are some lovely ones to take a look at:

It's great value for money spent, assuming you opt for the tree book version; the ebookmis a bit cranky and not as fluidly designed.

A very exciting gift to get, and one you'll be thanked for in longer terms than most gifts.