Meaning:
Hayao Miyazaki, a renowned Japanese film director, has made a profound statement about his creative process in this quote. Miyazaki is known for his work in animation, particularly his involvement with Studio Ghibli and his masterful storytelling in films such as "Spirited Away," "My Neighbor Totoro," and "Princess Mononoke." His approach to filmmaking, as expressed in this quote, provides insight into his method of working and the mindset he adopts when creating his cinematic masterpieces.
In this quote, Miyazaki emphasizes his need for autonomy and decisiveness in the filmmaking process. He asserts that he cannot engage in prolonged debates or discussions about a film before embarking on its creation. This sentiment reflects his strong conviction and confidence in his own vision as a director. Miyazaki's approach is characterized by a sense of authority and decisiveness, as he states, "I issue directives. I do not achieve it otherwise." This assertion underscores his belief in the importance of maintaining creative control and the necessity of adhering to his own artistic instincts.
Miyazaki's stance on avoiding extensive debate and discussion aligns with the notion of auteur theory, which emphasizes the director as the primary creative force behind a film. According to this theory, the director is considered the "author" of the film and is responsible for shaping its artistic vision and thematic content. Miyazaki's assertion that he issues directives and does not engage in extensive discussion with his team reflects his commitment to maintaining authorial control and ensuring that his creative vision remains undiluted by external influences.
Furthermore, Miyazaki's approach highlights the importance of decisiveness in the creative process. By issuing directives and adhering to his own vision without prolonged debate, he maintains a clear and unwavering direction for his films. This decisiveness allows him to channel his creative energy into the execution of his ideas, fostering a sense of clarity and purpose in his filmmaking.
Miyazaki's approach to filmmaking also speaks to the significance of individual creativity and intuition in the artistic process. His assertion that he is unable to do a film while discussing it with his team underscores the solitary nature of his creative inspiration. For Miyazaki, the act of issuing directives and pursuing his vision without extensive debate suggests a deep trust in his own artistic sensibilities and a belief in the power of individual intuition as a guiding force in the creation of his films.
It is important to note that while Miyazaki's approach to filmmaking prioritizes autonomy and decisiveness, it does not diminish the collaborative nature of the filmmaking process. Miyazaki has worked closely with a team of talented animators, writers, and artists at Studio Ghibli, and their contributions have played a crucial role in bringing his cinematic visions to life. However, Miyazaki's assertion in this quote reflects his personal approach to initiating the creative process and setting the tone for the realization of his artistic vision.
In conclusion, Hayao Miyazaki's quote provides valuable insight into his approach to filmmaking and the mindset he adopts as a director. His emphasis on autonomy, decisiveness, and the importance of individual creativity and intuition sheds light on the principles that guide his artistic process. Miyazaki's unwavering commitment to maintaining his creative vision and issuing directives underscores his status as a visionary director with a profound dedication to his craft.