Japanese animation powerhouse Studio Ghibli is set to receive an Honorary Palme d’Or award at the prestigious 2024 Cannes Film Festival. This historic decision marks the first time the award will be bestowed upon a group, reflecting the significant impact Studio Ghibli has had on the world of animated film.
The Honorary Palme d’Or is typically awarded to individuals who have made notable contributions to the industry but have not won a competitive Palme d’Or. Past recipients have included renowned figures such as Ingmar Bergman, Clint Eastwood, Tom Cruise, and George Lucas.
Studio Ghibli, founded by Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata in the 1980s, revolutionized animated storytelling with their enchanting narratives and beloved characters. Toshio Suzuki, co-founder of Studio Ghibli, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, highlighting the studio’s commitment to producing high-quality animation for audiences of all ages.
Over the years, Studio Ghibli has become a global phenomenon, attracting fans from around the world to experience the magic of their films at the Ghibli Museum and Ghibli Park. Despite their success, Suzuki emphasized that the journey has been a continuous evolution, with the team eager to embrace new challenges.
Festival de Cannes president Iris Knobloch praised Studio Ghibli for their pioneering spirit, noting that the recognition of an institution rather than an individual is a testament to their enduring legacy. General Delegate Thierry Frémaux lauded Japanese animation as a blend of tradition and modernity, with Studio Ghibli at the forefront of this cinematic adventure.
Established in 1985 by Miyazaki and Takahata, Studio Ghibli has produced a string of critically acclaimed films, including “Grave of Fireflies,” “My Neighbour Totoro,” “Princess Mononoke,” and “Spirited Away.” The latter, along with Miyazaki’s latest work “The Boy and the Heron,” have both secured Best Animated Feature wins at the Academy Awards, solidifying Studio Ghibli’s place as a titan in the world of animation.
