Studio Ghibli was founded in 1985 by directors and animators Hayao Miyazaki, Isao Takahata, and producer Toshio Suzuki.
The first official Studio Ghibli release was Laputa: Castle in the Sky (1986) which established the start of the studio’s 35-year career. Most of the films produced by Studio Ghibli are written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki, with other directors such as Hiromasa Yonebashi (Arietty, When Marnie was there) and Yoshifumi Kondo (Whisper of the Heart).
The name Ghibli was chosen by Miyazaki, the word has roots from Italian and is based on the Libyan word meaning ‘hot desert wind’ with the idea behind it being the studio would “blow a new wind through the animation industry”(linearity, 2022).
The three founders
Hayao Miyazaki
Hayao Miyazaki, an iconic figure in Japanese animation, is celebrated for his imaginative storytelling and artistic vision. His films enchant audience worldwide with their magical worlds, compelling characters, and profound themes. Miyazaki’s dedication to hand-drawn animation has earned him international acclaim and admiration.
Isao Takahata
Isao Takahata is known for his poignant storytelling and profound narratives. His films, like Grave of the Fireflies and Only Yesterday, explore themes of humanity, love, and loss with sensitivity and depth. Takahata’s artistic legacy continues to inspire generations of animators and storytellers around the world.
Toshio Suzuki
Despite the lack of director credit in Studio Ghibli films, Suzuki is a key figure in the studio’s success, and renowned for his role as a producer and co-founder. His leadership and vision have played a vital role in bringing Ghibli’s enchanting films to global audiences. Suzuki’s passion for storytelling and dedication to artistic excellence have shaped the studio’s enduring legacy.
Honorary mention – Joe Hisaichi
Although not a director, producer or founder. Joe Hisaichi is another monumental figure who plays a key role in creating the studio’s legacy as the composer. He started working with Miyazaki in 1984 for Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, and from then has created some of the most well known signature soundtracks of the studio, such as Merry-Go-Round of life from Howl’s Moving Castle, and One Summer’s Day from Spirited Away.
References
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Studio-Ghibli
https://www.linearity.io/blog/studio-ghibli/
https://mymodernmet.com/history-of-studio-ghibli/
https://www.classicfm.com/composers/hisaishi/best-pieces-music-soundtracks/