If you’ve been scrolling through social media recently, you might have noticed a sudden flood of images resembling scenes from a Studio Ghibli film. This surge in AI-generated images, thanks to OpenAI’s latest update on ChatGPT, has taken over online spaces, making it feel like we’ve stepped into a Ghibli film.

People are using AI to transform their regular photos into dreamy, hand-drawn Ghibli-style illustrations and the trend has gained massive popularity, especially among fans of the beloved animation studio. Many see it as a creative way to blend modern AI with the timeless charm of Ghibli’s art. Even OpenAI CEO Sam Altman joined in, changing his profile picture to an AI-generated Ghibli-style version.

However, while social media is flooded with these AI-generated creations, an old video of Studio Ghibli’s co-founder, Hayao Miyazaki, criticising AI animation has resurfaced.

Miyazaki’s harsh take on AI animation

In the resurfaced clip, the legendary filmmaker, known for masterpieces like Spirited Away and My Neighbour Totoro, shares his disapproval of AI-generated animation. He argues that AI lacks an understanding of real human emotions, making it incapable of producing meaningful art.

The video shows Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli producer Toshio Suzuki being presented with an AI-generated animation. The designers explain that AI can create movements beyond human imagination, demonstrating a grotesque zombie-like figure that moves in unnatural ways. They suggest that such technology could be useful for horror or zombie-themed video games.

One of the presenters explains, "It looks like it's dancing. It moves by using its head. It doesn't feel any pain and has no concept of protecting its head. It uses its head like a leg. This movement is so creepy and could be applied to a zombie video game. Artificial intelligence could present us with grotesque movements that we humans can't imagine."

Miyazaki’s strong reaction

Miyazaki, visibly unimpressed, responds by sharing a personal story. He talks about a friend with a disability who struggles with simple movements due to stiff muscles. The AI-generated animation reminds him of his friend’s struggle, making it impossible for him to find the creation entertaining.

He states, "I can't watch this stuff and find it interesting. Whoever creates this stuff has no idea what pain is whatsoever. I am utterly disgusted. If you really want to make creepy stuff, you can go ahead and do it. I would never wish to incorporate this technology into my work at all."

Miyazaki doesn’t hold back, making it clear that he strongly opposes AI’s role in animation. He goes on to say, "I strongly feel that this is an insult to life itself."

The debate over AI in art

With AI-generated Ghibli-style images trending across social media, the resurfacing of Miyazaki’s old remarks has reignited the debate over AI’s place in creative industries. While some embrace AI as a tool for artistic expression, others, like Miyazaki, believe that true art must come from human experience and emotion.

Many Ghibli fans took to social media to voice their disapproval, urging others to respect Miyazaki’s views, as he has openly opposed AI in animation.

One user commented " I hate GPT for doing this."

While another said " Miyazaki was against AI and I am afraid this would have made him very upset."

"It's Hayao Miyazaki's worst nightmare," said a user.