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Former Ghibli Producer Apologizes: 'Gender Has Nothing to Do With Making Movies'

posted on by Lynzee Loveridge

Former Ghibli producer Yoshiaki Nishimura (When Marnie Was There) has apologized for his comments published by British newspaper The Guardian last week, both for the possible association with Studio Ghibli and stating that they were sexist.

Nishimura issued the apology in tweets from the Studio Ponoc Twitter account on Sunday.

I apologize for comments made in an article published on June 6 in the British newspaper The Guardian. The article was based on an interview conducted in Britain on September 28, 2015. I actually made those statements at the time. First, I left Ghibli at the end of 2014, and I am no longer a Ghibli employee. I deeply apologize for causing the mistaken impression that my opinions represent Ghibli's and displeasing all who love Ghibli. Next, I definitely had the sexist belief that men had a strong tendency to be idealistic and that women were better at living reality. I am reflecting and learning. Gender has nothing to do with making movies. My deepest apologies.

Nishimura was originally asked if Ghibli would ever employ a female director. He responded, “It depends on what kind of a film it would be. Unlike live action, with animation we have to simplify the real world. Women tend to be more realistic and manage day-to-day lives very well. Men on the other hand tend to be more idealistic – and fantasy films need that idealistic approach. I don't think it's a coincidence men are picked.”

After The Guardian published his answer, Ghibli told BuzzFeed Japan that Nishimura is no longer associated with the studio and his comments should be taken as personal opinion.

Staff at The Independent, The Verge, and Fusion responded negatively to Nishimura's answer.

[Via Hachima Kikō]


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