A discussion of the representation of non-mainstream love and companionship in Studio Ghibli films and the importance of this.
’I’ve become skeptical of the unwritten rule that just because a boy and a girl appear in the same feature, a romance must ensue. Rather, I want to portray a slightly different relationship, one where the two mutually inspire each other to live - if I’m able to, then perhaps I’ll be closer to portraying a true expression of love.’ - Hayao Miyazaki, Studio Ghibli founder.
Love and romance have always been big, if not core, themes within most TV, film, or theatre productions. Usually, it’s the Romeo and Juliet format, a boy falls in love with a girl, there's a conflict and (unlike Romeo and Juliet) they end up together. However, after recently binging the films of Hayao Miyazaki I was reminded of a quote of his that spoke about how a relationship doesn’t have to be a romantic one, but rather a relationship where both members are inspired to live and grow. For example, in Princess Mononoke the two leads (Sen and Ashitaka) bond over the course of the film. Their relationship never feels like anything more than two people who are trying to do what they think is best for the other one; inspiring and encouraging one another. Their relationship really resonates with the above Miyazaki quote.
"Their relationship never feels like anything more than two people who are trying to do what they think is best for the other one."
Showing this kind of relationship to a wide range of people is more important than ever when we live in a society that privileges the representation of heterosexual, and indeed, sexual relationships. In an environment where openly discussing different sexualities and feelings is becoming more normal, having a film or show that breaks away from the norm of cinema romance and shows that there can be more than one type of relationship is vital. This could help someone realise that they feel the same way and are not alone. This can, and indeed will, help normalise relationships that a majority of society sees as abnormal.
"Having a film...that...shows that there can be more than one type of relationship is vital."
This theme of a ‘mutually inspiring’ relationship is present throughout most of Miyazaki’s films, there are differences in how they are shown, but thinking back I cannot think of any relationship in Ghibli that has a sexual nature, maybe barring Howl and Sophie (Howl’s Moving Castle 2005). There are a multitude of reasons for this, mainly Miyazaki really tries to focus on character building and not labelling them as ’the love interest’ or the ’heart throb’. Another reason is that the movies tend to involve children or young adults as the leads, and at that age romance isn’t really a thing, or appropriate to be portraying.
Now, don’t get me wrong, I don’t hate seeing a relationship in a film or TV show, only as long as it is portrayed in a way that makes me connect to the characters. The movie Moonlight is an incredible example of this. Although not gay myself, I am the son of two mothers and my brother is gay. And surprisingly, the themes of homosexuality weren't really discussed in my family. So it was incredibly eye opening for me. The themes of toxic masculinity and alienation from friends, family, community, and even themselves made for a very powerful viewing experience, one which I will revisit. I enjoy seeing a relationship that has a purpose to the plot, the characters. Not some cheap ‘shipping’ to please the fans. Because for me, that’s when the cliché becomes apparent and depending on how the relationship is portrayed, it could be damaging to someone watching. Someone who sees a cliché, TV relationship might expect that that’s what a normal relationship/marriage is supposed to be.
"I enjoy seeing a relationship that has a purpose to the plot, the characters."
I feel that this demonstration of a relationship and companionship should be explored more by filmmakers. It shows a clearly healthy relationship where there is not a constant thought of ’will they, won't they’. It’s important to break the norm, show the entire spectrum so that people who might be struggling to realise who they are or what they want can feel included and part of a community.
Article Written By Felix Sutherland-White
(He/Him)