Reader’s Question:
Have you ever wondered how many times Hayao Miyazaki has announced his retirement? It turns out he has declared his retirement five times, only to retract it each time. Let me summarize his history with retirement announcements. His first retirement declaration came after the release of “Princess Mononoke” in
1997, when he stated, “I will no longer make feature-length animations.” However, he quickly retracted this statement by producing “Spirited Away,” which became a massive hit. Then in 2001, after the release of “Spirited Away,” he mentioned that this might be his last work. But, of course, in 2004, he created “Howl’s Moving Castle,” and once again, retirement was off the table. In 2004, after “Howl’s Moving Castle” was released, he claimed, “This will be my last feature.” Yet, he went on to make “Ponyo” in 2008, retracting his retirement once more. After “Ponyo” in 2008, he said he would no longer make feature films. However, he produced “The Wind Rises” in 2013 and held a formal retirement press conference, stating, “This is my retirement.” The media buzzed about it, but ultimately, he retracted his retirement again in 2017 and began working on “How Do You Live?” which was released in 2023. He has even mentioned that he plans to create another work. In summary, it’s fair to say that Miyazaki’s retirement announcements have lost their significance. Fans commonly think, “He’ll just retract it again, right?” So why does he keep announcing his retirement and then taking it back? Does he genuinely intend to retire, or is it just a whim? What do you think?
The Curious Case of Miyazaki’s Retirements
You know, I’ve always found Hayao Miyazaki’s retirement announcements to be a fascinating blend of comedy and drama—like a plot twist straight out of one of his own films. Imagine this: a master storyteller, known for weaving intricate tales filled with heart and whimsy, repeatedly saying he’s done with the craft he loves. It’s like when your favorite comedian jokes about quitting stand-up, and you can’t help but chuckle because you know they’ll be back on stage before you can even finish your popcorn. I remember the first time I read about Miyazaki’s retirement saga. It was after “Princess Mononoke” hit the screens. I thought, “Wait, he’s not making any more feature films?!” I was devastated! But then, just a couple of years later, “Spirited Away” came out and swept the world off its feet. I couldn’t help but think, “This guy just can’t stay away!” It was as if he was playing a game of hide-and-seek with his own creativity. What’s amusing is that those close to him, like the people working on his films, have heard his “I’m retiring” line so many times that it’s practically a running joke. It’s like when a friend keeps saying they’ll quit a bad habit but keeps coming back, and you just shake your head and laugh. They all know deep down that as long as inspiration strikes, Miyazaki will keep creating. And let’s be honest, the media loves it. When someone like Miyazaki, who has created so many beloved classics, announces he’s stepping back, it’s like throwing a juicy steak to a pack of hungry wolves. They can’t resist sensationalizing it! I mean, who wouldn’t want to report on the possible end of an era? It’s almost poetic in a way. In his heart, I think he must feel the weight of his legacy. As he gets older, there’s probably this urge to leave behind something meaningful, something that resonates with both kids and adults. I can relate to that feeling of wanting to accomplish your dreams while you still can. It’s like when I try to squeeze in quality time with my child between work and everything else life throws at us. Now, about those early works of his—while I appreciate them, I can’t help but feel that even his recent creations hold a certain charm. There’s a sense of maturity, and perhaps a reflection of his own journey, which makes them special in their own right. It’s like watching a comedian evolve over time, trying new styles, but still keeping that spark that made you a fan in the first place. So, what do you think? Do you believe Miyazaki’s retirement announcements are genuine, or are they just part of his creative process? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Have you ever had a similar experience where you thought something was over, only to see it come back in a surprising way? Share your stories or any tips for navigating life’s little twists and turns in the comments!
