The reasoning behind this unusual pairing was largely financial.
Audiences left theaters emotionally torn, being devastated by one film and uplifted by the other.
Miyazaki got the idea for the film while spending time with the daughter of a friend.
He wanted to create a protagonist that would resonate with that age group and thus, Chihiro was born.
The film was a massive success in Japan, breaking box office records and earning critical acclaim worldwide.
However, retirement did not stick for Miyazaki.
As a result, he shaped the film into a statement against violence and unnecessary conflict.
This thematic depth adds another layer to an already enchanting film.
Hayao Miyazaki cannot seem to stay away from retirement because of his passion for creating meaningful stories.
While he may eventually retire for good, Miyazakis influence on the world of animation is undeniable.
