The Future of Animation: Goro Miyazaki on the Impact of Artificial Intelligence

Japan’s Animation Industry at a Crossroads

The world of Japanese animation is at a crossroads, with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) threatening to replace traditional animators. Goro Miyazaki, son of legendary director Hayao Miyazaki, has spoken out about the potential impact of AI on the industry.

AI-Generated Images: A New Era for Animation

Thanks to ChatGPT’s new image generator, the internet is flooded with pictures imitating Studio Ghibli’s distinctive style, raising concerns about copyright infringement. Goro Miyazaki, 58, predicted that AI could one day replace animators, saying, “It wouldn’t be surprising if, in two years’ time, there was a film made completely through AI.”

The Risks and Opportunities of AI

While AI-generated images are becoming increasingly sophisticated, Goro noted that new technology also brings “great potential for unexpected talent to emerge”. However, the industry faces a shortage of skilled animators, partly due to the long and often low-paid training period required to become an animator.

Generational Differences

Goro’s father, Hayao, founded Studio Ghibli with Isao Takahata in 1985, and the studio has since become synonymous with beautiful, hand-drawn animation. However, Goro acknowledged that younger generations may be less enthusiastic about the manual labor involved in traditional animation, citing the abundance of entertainment options available to them.

Hayao’s Legacy

Hayao Miyazaki is the creative lifeblood of Studio Ghibli, and his influence cannot be replicated by AI. Despite his advanced age, he won his second Oscar last year with “The Boy and the Heron” – likely his last feature film. Goro noted that his father’s generation, which knew war, brought a unique perspective to their work, making it impossible for younger animators to replicate.

Copyright Concerns

As AI-generated images proliferate, copyright concerns are growing. OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT, has said that generating images in the style of individual living artists is banned, but “we do permit broader studio styles”. Goro’s comments on the issue are cautious, acknowledging the potential risks but also the opportunities presented by new technology.

The Future of Studio Ghibli

Studio Ghibli is facing an uncertain future, with Hayao and producer Toshio Suzuki still at the helm. Goro reflected on the impact of their absence, saying, “If those two can’t make anime or can’t move, then what happens? It’s not like they can be replaced.”

Conclusion

The future of Japanese animation is uncertain, with AI threatening to replace traditional animators and copyright concerns growing. However, Goro Miyazaki remains optimistic about the opportunities presented by new technology, and the potential for unexpected talent to emerge.

FAQs

Q: What is the impact of AI on the animation industry?
A: AI has the potential to replace traditional animators, but it also brings new opportunities for unexpected talent to emerge.

Q: What is Studio Ghibli’s stance on AI-generated images?
A: The studio has not commented directly on the issue, but Goro Miyazaki has expressed concerns about the potential risks and opportunities presented by AI.

Q: What is the status of Hayao Miyazaki’s health?
A: Hayao Miyazaki is 84 and a heavy smoker, and his health is a concern. He is likely to retire soon, and his absence will be deeply felt at Studio Ghibli.