Explore the Magic of a Master Storyteller in 'The Worlds of Hayao Miyazaki'
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- 5 hours ago
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September 24, 2025
THE WORLDS OF HAYAO MIYAZAKI – AVAILABLE NOW
Discover the stories, inspirations, and artistry of one of cinema’s most celebrated visionaries in The Worlds of Hayao Miyazaki.
A Journey Through Ghibli’s Magic
From My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away to Princess Mononoke, Howl’s Moving Castle and Ponyo, Hayao Miyazaki’s films have enchanted audiences across the globe. His worlds are filled with unforgettable characters, deeply felt emotion, and breathtaking artistry that transcend cultural boundaries.
Often referred to as the godfather of animation, Miyazaki is the co-founder of Studio Ghibli and the creative mind behind some of the most beloved films of all time. Spirited Away remains the highest-grossing film in Japanese cinema history and stands as the only hand-drawn film to win the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.
The Worlds of Hayao Miyazaki takes readers inside the cultural, historical, and artistic influences that shaped his visionary storytelling, offering a deeper appreciation of the master’s work.
What’s Inside the Book
Author Nicolas Rapold, former editor-in-chief of Film Comment and host of The Last Thing I Saw podcast, guides readers through Miyazaki’s layered creative world. With insight into his process, themes, and recurring motifs, the book uncovers:
The impact of Japanese folklore and childhood memories on his narratives
European architecture, classic cinema, and artistic traditions woven into his visual language
Themes of nature, flight, girlhood, resistance, and renewal that define his storytelling
How political commentary and personal vision shaped fantastical yet grounded worlds
This is more than a study of animation – it is a celebration of creative freedom, storytelling without limits, and the enduring power of imagination.
About the Author
Nicolas Rapold is a writer and editor whose work has appeared in The New York Times, Artforum, the Criterion Collection Daily, and Sight & Sound. He served as editor-in-chief of Film Comment at Film at Lincoln Center, where he curated film series, hosted podcasts, and led editorial projects. His deep knowledge of cinema and unique perspective bring new clarity to Miyazaki’s creative universe.
Should You Pick It Up?
If you’ve ever been moved by the spirit of Totoro, the courage of Chihiro, or the breath-taking flight of Howl’s castle, The Worlds of Hayao Miyazaki is essential reading. Part critical study, part celebration, it provides fans and film lovers alike with a richer understanding of the imagination that shaped Studio Ghibli’s masterpieces. Whether you’re a lifelong admirer or just beginning your journey into Miyazaki’s films, this book is a beautiful companion to revisit his magical worlds.
