Porco Rosso:

"During the beginning years of the Great Depression, life in the Mediterranean has become difficult. Aerial pirate raids are gaining in frequency, thus requiring the need for capable "bodyguards". One of the best is a pig known as Porco Rosso. Once a human and an ace pilot during World War I, he now freelances his services to those in distress. The fascist regime that has taken over the Italian Air Force has grown tiresome of his exploits and places a bounty on his head. On top of that, a hotshot flyer from the United States arrives and not only wants to steal Porco Rosso's glory, but also the woman he loves so dearly."

It's actually an old Anime (from 1992) but only recently I have seen it. It was a truly wonderfull anime movie, especially since I am an aircraft fan. The aeronautics of the planes and the sky battles were impressive, the scenery of the idylic landscapes are captivating. Combined with Miyazaki's expertise of story development and story philosophy, it nourishes your fantasy and is highly recommendable for all ages.



Howl's Moving Castle:

"A plain young hatter named Sophie has her life changed when an evil witch transforms her into an old woman. Unable to face her family in such a condition, Sophie runs away in search of a way to become young again. Along the way, Sophie helps a turnip headed scarecrow, who repays her by leading her to the moving castle owned by the dreaded wizard Howl. There she befriends Howl's apprentice Markl, Howl's fire demon Calcifer, and eventually, Howl himself. Sophie then becomes the castle's cleaning lady in an effort to not only find the solution to her problem but to save Howl from his own terrible secrets as well."

Another great anime, involving an industrial era interwoven with magic and socerers. Very beautiful sceneries and a wonderful story with a beautiful message.


I am looking forward for the next project of his son called Gedo senki (Earthsea) on which Hayao Miyazaki will also contribute.

I think the Sprited Away is his best movie. Howl's moving castle was also very good. His imagination is always beyond my reach. You can see his movies changing as the times go by. Kiki's delivery service and the Castle in the sky are good too. You should see how much Pixar's John Lasseter is respecting this man. Especially in Howl's Moving Castle, DVD has a suprise visit of Miyazaki to Pixar with a gift (catbus?). I'm really looking forward for his other films.

He is the sensei.

He is working on the Anime work of his son, but that aside I think he is retired. But so was he before making Spirited Away and Howl's. Lets just hope he will come out of retirement yet again.