It is important to stress that this is the last film of Hayao Miyazaki. Few contemporary film makers can rival the 73-year-old in terms of his creative output and his true skill. Though Studio Ghibli was co-founded by the equally talented Isao Takahata, the significance of Miyazaki's input must be acknowledged. With a Miyazaki film, viewers know they will get a sensational piece of cinema, such is his reputation. His ability to address current issues and troubling themes, whilst also entertaining and pleasing his audience, marks Miyazaki out as a master of film. His films have won critical praise and international accolades, whilst a huge fan base for Studio Ghibli has been roused by Miyazaki's skill in the field of animation. Hayao Miyazaki retired after producing The Wind Rises. He saw it achieve a nomination at this year's Academy Awards, and go on to become one of the most successful animations of all time. To say that Studio Ghibli won't be the same without him is an understatement, though the company is in safe hands for the future, in the form of Miyazaki's son. Watching The Wind Rises it is possible to see an inspirational man with great ideas being fulfilled. Whether it is Jiro Horikoshi being depicted at all times is debatable, as a certain Hayao Miyazaki is forever visible.
