Japanese director and artist Hayao Miyazaki has reportedly begun work on a new project, according to officials within Studio Ghibli. In an interview, the studio’s lead producer indicated that Miyazaki remains deeply attached to the creative process and is pursuing fresh ideas for his next film. The producer emphasized that Miyazaki’s commitment to creating remains unwavering, suggesting that retirement is not on the horizon for the 82-year-old filmmaker. The stance conveyed was clear: as long as Miyazaki feels the urge to create, the studio will support his efforts and continue to pursue new cinematic visions.
Prior reporting had suggested that Miyazaki’s upcoming project would be titled The Boy and the Bird and that it might mark the end of his directing career. However, recent statements from Studio Ghibli executives indicated a shift in that narrative, signaling that an exit from filmmaking is not imminent. The studio has hinted at a stream of new ideas and experimental approaches that Miyazaki plans to bring to the studio, reinforcing the sense that this era may be defined by renewal and artistic exploration rather than a finale.
The script for The Boy and the Bird was reportedly inspired by a 1937 work by Japanese author Yoshino Genzaburo. The adaptation is said to explore the emotional and philosophical growth of a young child set against a backdrop of family tragedy, with an emphasis on inner life, resilience, and the narrative complexity that fans of Miyazaki have come to expect. The project is described as a character-driven piece that blends introspective storytelling with the studio’s characteristic attention to atmosphere and visual storytelling.
In a broader context, industry observers have noted how Miyazaki’s creative choices continue to shape contemporary animation. The artist’s willingness to reassess retirement and to pursue ambitious ideas reflects a philosophy of ongoing experimentation, curiosity, and a deep commitment to storytelling that resonates across generations. This ongoing activity has sparked renewed anticipation among audiences and critics alike, who are watching closely for signals about the studio’s evolving direction and the kinds of worlds Miyazaki may choose to depict next.