Studio Ghibli: A Foreigners Perspective (Part 2)
Spoilers ahead!
The Wind Rises 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 both familiar and somewhat unique for a Studio Ghibli picture.
It’s arguably Miyazaki’s most Westernised film. The drawn-out portrayal of a historical and cultural figure as a biopic is a familiar sub-genre. Yet the studio’s co-founder offers here a variable mélange of fiction and fantasy, alongside a characteristically stunning colour palette. Richly exuberant tones contrast with the often-dire tone of the corresponding story, yet in no way softening its emotional impact.
Studio Ghibli
It’s worth noting that 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 home country in that period. Yet, it’s worth questioning whether we should ask for more when the result is such a beautifully playful, very human, slow-burning tragedy.
Miyazaki is also 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 country’s accounts of World War II that transparent? For the most part, the story isn’t inherently concerned with this subject matter, and, ultimately, it need not be.
Our story is centred on Jiro, a fascinatingly complex character with whom we find sympathy and favour, despite the brutal imperialism of Japan at the time of his life. The passion and ability for his craft are synonymous with Japan, as is the dedication he shows towards caring for his ailing wife. While it ends in heartache, it’s beautiful to behold.
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.
Such aspirations, curious reader, surely exist fundamentally in every Studio Ghibli picture.
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