Hayao Miyazaki Reveals His Favorite ’90s Anime with Perfect 100% Rotten Tomatoes Score

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As an ardent admirer, I’ve always found Hayao Miyazaki to be a challenging enigma. His vitality is reminiscent of a triumphant father, tinged with deep-seated disillusionment that seems to linger even in his public discourse. It can feel like searching for hidden treasures when trying to find things he appreciates, particularly when the conversation veers towards anime or other creative works. Miyazaki’s keen gaze and reserved demeanor often suggest a reluctance to engage with such properties. Therefore, it takes an extraordinary franchise to shatter his well-established pattern of what could generously be described as quiet skepticism.

In my observation, I find myself captivated by a particular anime series that seems to resonate deeply with the legendary animator Miyazaki. Though it belongs to the classical realm of anime, it’s not your everyday beginner’s show. In fact, its complexity might be slightly overwhelming for newcomers to the medium, but it undeniably holds a special place in the hearts of seasoned fans. This iconic series from the ’90s is one of the few animes that carries Miyazaki’s seal of approval, making it an enticing prospect even for those who might perceive its entrance as challenging.

Miyazaki Demanded That Hideaki Anno Finish Neon Genesis Evangelion

It’s Incredibly Relatable to Want an Anime You Love to Be Completed

Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to witness and appreciate the unique bond between Hayao Miyazaki and Hideaki Anno, the genius behind Neon Genesis Evangelion. In the captivating documentary titled “Hideaki Anno: The Final Challenge of Evangelion,” Miyazaki shares insights about their creative collaboration. Incredibly, Anno had the chance to participate in my film, The Wind Rises, though his performance was later dubbed by Joseph Gordon-Levitt for the English version. The documentary offers a glimpse into the intriguing relationship between these two legendary animators, including footage of Anno’s audition and hints at their behind-the-scenes camaraderie. Reminiscing about their conversations, Miyazaki even urged Anno to complete Evangelion as Rebuild of Evangelion, emphasizing the importance of his work.

In this discussion, the exact timing of the talk isn’t clear, and the documentary doesn’t provide context, but it certainly highlights Miyazaki’s admiration for the series known as Evangelion. Notably, this anime boasts a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, an impressive feat, yet it seems to fall short in comparison to Miyazaki’s praise. Given that Miyazaki has been highly critical of the anime industry, his criticism even inspiring the popular “anime was a mistake” quote and meme, it adds significant weight when he insists on something being completed. Moreover, Anno appears to have tapped into something unique with this series, as even he claims it meets his own high standards.

It’s understandable why Miyazaki might be drawn to the Evangelion franchise, given their friendship notwithstanding. Miyazaki is renowned for his storytelling prowess in the coming-of-age genre, and many of his works revolve around this theme. Evangelion, in turn, delves deeply into the emotional turmoil of characters like Shinji, Asuka, and Rei, as they navigate their lives while losing their innocence amidst a chaotic universe. Given Miyazaki’s acknowledged influences such as Lewis Carroll and Roald Dahl, it’s not surprising that he finds resonance in Anno’s work.

In simpler terms, the creative processes of Miyazaki, Anno, Carroll, and Dahl are spontaneous, with a strong emphasis on emotions and symbolism that feels organic rather than forced. The meanings in their works often reveal themselves gradually, which can be more challenging than it appears. Miyazaki’s work is particularly intriguing because each frame seems to hold multiple interpretations. Although Anno and Miyazaki appear quite distinct, they share common ground in their storytelling styles. Moreover, their friendship predates the creation of “The Wind Rises.

Hayao Miyazaki & Hideaki Anno Hayao Have a Deep Bond

Miyazaki & Anno Went to the Sahara Together

I, an observer, note that among the rare few, Anno stands out as one who openly voices his criticisms towards Miyazaki’s works, such as “Porco Rosso.” He expresses that at times, Miyazaki seems to be exhibiting more of a show-off side. Furthermore, Anno suggests that Miyazaki maintains an image he prefers and this might not entirely represent the true story behind the esteemed director. Such sentiments may appear almost sacrilegious to many fans, yet they underscore the unique bond between these two artists. They feel unrestricted in their discussions, a testament to their mutual respect and affection. Notably, Anno started his career under Miyazaki and had the opportunity to contribute to a project close to his heart.

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind wasn’t merely adapted by Miyazaki; he was also the author and illustrator for the initial manga. Anno was one of the animators on this project, and though Miyazaki initially claimed not to be fond of Anno, he eventually took him under his wing. Despite Anno’s unconventional fashion choices and less-than-ideal personal hygiene habits that didn’t meet Miyazaki’s preferences, they continued working together. Anno eventually provided the voice for the main character in The Wind Rises, while Studio Ghibli contributed to animating parts of Neon Genesis Evangelion, particularly Episode 11. It’s also evident that Miyazaki holds Anno in high regard, given he was instrumental in giving him his first major opportunity. Since Evangelion is a deeply personal work of Anno’s, it’s touching to consider the intimate projects they have collaborated on over the years.

In their unique artistic endeavors, Anno and Miyazaki infuse a powerful individuality that significantly enhances the connection among creatives. During the ’90s, they embarked on an adventurous journey across the Sahara desert in an old aircraft, mirroring the path taken by Antoine de Saint-Exupery, author of The Little Prince. Miyazaki delivered a speech at Anno’s wedding, while Anno produced a short film exclusively for the Ghibli Museum. Recognizing Anno’s potential beyond just storyboarding, Miyazaki guided him through the entire production process. Their friendship appears to be deeply cherished by Miyazaki, and during one of Anno’s most challenging times – severe depression – he received a call from Miyazaki, offering him the support needed to persevere in those difficult circumstances.

The film is cherished just as deeply as many Studio Ghibli movies themselves, being a labor of passion and love much like them. Miyazaki was an ideal mentor for someone like Anno, a figure who may appear off-putting but embodies the pure joy of creation. These two creators serve as a beacon of what can be achieved when exceptionally talented individuals come together, collaborate, and learn from one another. Over time, Anno has earned legendary status, mirroring Miyazaki’s path towards greatness, standing side by side like towering figures.

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2025-05-18 05:58