Social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), is buzzing with AI-generated images inspired by the signature style of Studio Ghibli. This sudden trend comes after OpenAI’s latest image-generation update on ChatGPT, allowing users to visualize themselves in the whimsical world of the iconic Japanese animation studio.

However, as people embrace AI-generated Ghibli-style art, an old video of legendary animator and Studio Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki has resurfaced. In the clip, Miyazaki strongly criticizes AI-generated animation, calling it an “insult to life itself.” The video, originally from a 2016 documentary, has reignited discussions on the role of artificial intelligence in creative fields.

While AI-generated art continues to gain popularity, the resurfacing of Miyazaki’s remarks about the ongoing debate between traditional artistry and AI-powered creativity. The video shows a group of animators and designers presenting an AI animation tool to Studio Ghibli producers Toshio Suzuki and Hayao Miyazaki.

The AI-generated animation featured a zombie-like figure moving strangely and unnaturally. The creators explained that AI could produce movements beyond human imagination, which could be useful for horror or zombie video games.

One of the presenters described the animation, saying, "It looks like it's dancing. It moves using its head instead of its legs. It doesn’t feel pain or understand the need to protect its head. This creepy movement could be used in a zombie game. AI can create bizarre movements that humans would never think of."

However, Miyazaki was not impressed. He shared that he had a disabled friend who struggled with simple movements like giving a high five due to stiff muscles. He said the unnatural AI-generated movements reminded him of his friend's struggles, making it uncomfortable rather than entertaining.

Hayao Miyazaki, in an interview with FarOut Magazine, strongly criticized AI-generated animation. He said, “I can’t watch this and find it interesting. The people creating this have no idea what pain is. I am disgusted. If you want to make creepy things, go ahead, but I will never use this technology in my work.” He also added, “I strongly feel this is an insult to life itself.”

One of the designers who presented the AI animation to Miyazaki explained that it was just an experiment and not something they planned to show to the world. Studio Ghibli producer Toshio Suzuki asked the team about their goal, and one of them said they wanted to create a machine that could draw like humans.

Meanwhile, OpenAI’s latest model, GPT-4o, which includes an AI image generator, has gone viral on social media. People are amazed by AI-generated Studio Ghibli-style artwork. The trend has become so popular that even OpenAI CEO Sam Altman changed his profile picture to an AI-generated Ghibli-style version.

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