Studio Ghibli: A Foreigners Perspective (Part 2)
Spoilers ahead!
The Wind Rises (Hayao Miyazaki 2013) is a storybook style depiction of the life of Jiro Horikoshi, the man who designed Japanese fighter planes during World War II. Originally declared as Miyazaki’s last film following a long and prosperous career, this portrayal of pre-war Japan offers insight into Japanese culture in a manner that is, concurrently, unique for a Studio Ghibli picture, as well as strikingly familiar.
It’s arguably Miyazaki’s most Westernised film. The drawn-out portrayal of a historical, cultural figure (whether famous or otherwise) is a familiar concept out here. On this occasion, we find a narrative that fittingly flirts with fiction and fantasy on a variable scale.
Likewise, we’re offered a colour palette that is characteristically stunning. Richly exuberant tones contrast the often-dire tone of the corresponding story and ultimately do wonders to lessen its impact. The end result is a beautifully playful, very human, slow-burning tragedy, and that is but another endearing quality we have come to recognise with Studio Ghibli.
Credit: Studio Ghibli
The film is, however, laced with controversy. Miyazaki’s portrayal of Japan in the time of World War II is somewhat sympathetic, alluding to but largely downplaying the atrocities inflicted by his country in that time period. But it’s worth questioning whether we should ask for more.
Miyazaki is a declared pacifist, opposed to recent efforts to reevaluate the Japanese constitution, in favour of reestablishing an active military. Can we honestly say that, in his position, we would lean heavily in the favour of upfront, unflinching honesty, in the face of potential adversity? Are our own countries accounts of World War II that unbiased? For the most part, the story isn’t inherently concerned with this subject matter, and, really, it need not be.
For our story is centred on Jiro, a fascinatingly complex character with who we find sympathy and favour, despite the brutal imperialism of Japan at the time of his life. The passion for his craft is synonymous with Japan. Likewise, as is the dedication he has towards the care of his sickly wife. Though it ends in heartache, it’s truly beautiful to behold.
Credit: Studio Ghibli
During the film, Jiro states “all I wanted to do was make something beautiful." This striking quote offers us clues as to the inner workings of the man, surely one of the most gifted of his generation. Larger than that, curious reader, can one not argue this film came to be a result of similar intentions?