Studio Ghibli The OpenAI Studio Ghibli trend has taken the world by storm, with users from around the world using ChatGPT’s AI image generator to create ‘art’ inspired by legendary animator Hayao Miyazaki. However, a Studio Ghibli partner has called out the trend.
On March 26, following the release of ChatGPT’s latest AI image generator, users flocked to the site to make Ghibli-style images. It has become so popular that even OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, has urged fans to ease up on generating images.
With so many pictures being generated, OpenAI’s GPUs have been pushed to their limits, with celebrities and even politicians joining in. However, in contrast to the machine-made art, a 4K restoration of Studio Ghibli’s hand-drawn 1997 classic, Princess Mononoke, was also released on March 26.
Despite only being released in 330 cinemas, the film made $1.2 million in previews ahead of its opening.
Studio Ghibli partner calls out AI trend
The distributor of the film is GKids, and the company’s VP, Chance Huskey, made a subtle dig at the Studio Ghibli AI art trend. Speaking with Variety, Huskey gave the following statement:
“In a time when technology tries to replicate humanity, we are thrilled that audiences value a theatrical experience that respects and celebrates Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli’s masterpiece in all its cinematic hand-drawn glory.”
While Hayao Miyazaki, the legendary animator and face of Studio Ghibli, has yet to make any statement, a 2016 broadcast has begun to resurface once again. During the clip, Miyazaki was shown a demo of an AI-generated zombie.
The animator quickly expressed his distaste for the showcase, which reminded him of a friend with a disability. Miyazaki also famously criticized the technology used to create such a zombie, explaining how he:
“Would never wish to incorporate this technology into my work at all. I strongly feel that this is an insult to life itself.”
When the Ghibli animator was told that the animators hoped to create an AI that “draws pictures like humans do”, he responded: “I feel like we are nearing to the end of the times. We humans are losing faith in ourselves.”
Whether you’re a fan of Studio Ghibli films or looking for that next anime to add to your watchlist, check out our best anime movies of all time and find out more about Netflix’s biggest anime show releasing in April.
