Interview with Genius Japanese Animator Miyazaki

Hayao Miyazaki--creator of Spirited Away and Howl's Moving Castle which are two of my favorite animated films--in a recent interview about his new hit Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea explains why he favors the traditional pencil over computers:

I think animation is something that needs the pencil, needs man's drawing hand, and that is why I decided to do this work in this way. Currently computer graphics are of course used a great deal and, as I've said before, this use can at times be excessive. I will continue to use my pencil as long as I can.

Not to argue with a master, but Pixar has demonstrably proven that animation doesn't need the pencil, but Miyazaki's drawings are unquestionably infused with something magical that no computer could produce on its own. Tools aside, Pixar and Miyazaki share a commonality in that what makes their films so successful is ultimately great and compelling stories for all ages.

[Thanks Moye!]

FILM SHOOT

Today was very tiring as I woke up ass early to meet at 9 am in Soho with my co-cinematographers, actors and stills photographer to shoot the bellwether film, conceived and written by yours truly, from MRod Productions. This was such an amazing experience and suffice to say I have fully caught the bug, tossed back the kool-aid, and signed on the film-making dotted line. I'm hoping to get the final cut distributed by the end of the week! No, it's not a Gap ad from 1999. Marvin (Ben), Hector (Anthony), Mike (Andy), Ian (Ted), Karynne (photographer!).

Jason and Patrick--Thanks guys. This obviously could NOT have been possible without the help of you guys!

This cabbie was interested in what we were shooting.

Last but not least: Thanks to RANMAN for the financing!!!