Studio Ghibli on the AI filter trend and profits

The age of artificial intelligence has spilled over into every corner of creative life, from the prompts entered into ChatGPT to sophisticated tools capable of generating photorealistic images and complex video scenes. This relentless proliferation has sparked a fascinating collision between the world of digital creation and the sanctity of classic artistic vision.

One particularly potent visual trend has emerged in this new landscape: the imitation of the Studio Ghibli aesthetic. AI tools are now capable of producing images that mimic the signature, dreamy quality of the studio’s legendary works, complete with that distinctive yellow hue that evokes the magic of films like Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro.

This ability to mimic iconic styles has quickly ignited a debate. As the trend exploded in 2025, some observers expressed strong derision toward those who used AI to copy Ghibli’s distinctive visual language, especially given the long-held philosophy of its co-founder, Hayao Miyazaki, which championed the triumph of human artistry.

Yet, in a surprisingly candid admission from some of the studio’s leaders, the conversation about AI’s role took an unexpected turn. Far from outright condemnation, some figures at Studio Ghibli revealed a surprisingly neutral perspective on the technology itself.

Director Goro Miyazaki, son of Hayao, offered a commentary that shifted the focus from artistic ownership to economic reality. He noted that the primary concern should not be the technology, but its potential impact on commerce: “We didn’t think much of it, to be honest. If someone started making a lot of money out of it, then it would be a problem.”

This perspective suggests that the immediate concern is not the method of creation, but the financial implications of its widespread use. Furthermore, Goro Miyazaki pointed toward the historical context, suggesting that the late director Isao Takahata, known for classics like From Up on Poppy Hill, may have explored similar technological ideas during his time, given his known interest in the latest advancements.

Ultimately, the Studio Ghibli leadership’s position on the AI revolution is one of measured neutrality. They stated clearly that they are neither denying nor feeling negative about the technology itself, choosing instead to observe the evolving landscape with a focus on the future rather than dwelling on the past.