There has been a lot of talk lately (and always, it seems) on this site about the gender messages that can be derived from popular children’s movies. Among these discussions there is a lot of focus on Disney movies in particular, and every time I read one of these discussions I can’t help thinking about Hayao Miyazaki’s films. For those of you who don’t know what I’m talking about, Hayao Miyazaki is a Japanese filmmaker who has created some of the most profound and beautiful animated films I think I have ever seen. He is best known in this country for his film "Spirited Away" and his more recent release, "Ponyo."
The reason I chose to mention him on this site is because every time I watch his movies all I can think is how positive his messages about gender are. In the films of his that I have seen so far (Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away, Ponyo, Howl’s Moving Castle, The Cat Returns, Kiki’s Delivery Service, and Castle in the Sky) many, if not most, of the main protagonists are strong young women who demonstrate bravery, kindness, compassion, generosity, and personal integrity. In addition to this the characters (regardless of age) are not sexualized the way we see in many many (way too many) children’s movies. This is just one of the many refreshing things about Hayao Miyazaki’s films.
Rather than getting into an analysis of the films (which I am tempted to do at another time) I first wanted to see if anyone else has seen these films/has thoughts about their gender messages. I’m surprised that I haven’t seen anyone mention them before (and perhaps I’ve simply missed it), and I am incredibly eager to know what everyone thinks.
If you know the films, tell me what you think, and if you haven’t I strongly urge you to check them out.
Disclaimer: This post was written by a Feministing Community user and does not necessarily reflect the views of any Feministing columnist, editor, or executive director.
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