“It’s a cartoon, bro” – Netizens react hilariously to Hayao Miyazaki’s disgusted reaction to AI-generated animation in 2016

Academy Of Motion Picture Arts And Sciences
Academy Of Motion Picture Arts And Sciences' 2014 Governors Awards - Arrivals - Source: Getty

AI has become the talk of the town, with everyone adopting it in their daily lives, and its influence is only growing. From phones and cars to robots that may soon handle all household chores, AI is set to replace much of human effort. What’s more? It’s even being used in filmmaking, especially animation, drastically reducing production time. While many creators are thrilled with how AI has made their work easier, some remain highly critical, one of them being renowned animator and filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki.

The legendary creator of Oscar-winning animated films like Spirited Away and The Boy & the Heron has been going viral recently for a comment he made about AI-generated animation back in 2016. This comes after AI-generated versions of popular movies in Studio Ghibli’s signature style have been making the rounds online. Miyazaki’s remarks, where he said he was “utterly disgusted” by it and called it “an insult to life itself,” have sparked quite a debate on social media.

Hilarious Internet Reactions

Netizens had plenty to say about Hayao Miyazaki’s comments and the use of AI in animation, quickly taking to the internet to share their hilarious thoughts.

"It’s a cartoon bro," a user said.

Who would’ve thought Hayao Miyazaki would get the “It’s just a cartoon, bro Chill.” treatment from an internet user for criticizing AI in animation? We may have officially seen everything!

"2016 what does he think of it now tho," wondered another.

As this fan points out, if Miyazaki was “utterly disgusted” by AI-generated animation in 2016, one can only imagine how much his blood must be boiling seeing it everywhere today.

Uh-oh! (via @EatMyPotat0 / X)

Looks like this user is rubbing salt in Miyazaki’s wounds by sharing an AI-generated photo of him in his own art style. But hey, maybe it could also be the greatest compliment!

"A world-renowned art style reduced to snapchat filter status lol," a user joked.

A world-renowned art style reduced to Snapchat filter status—or at least that’s what this user believes. Hayao Miyazaki might be better off never downloading Snapchat!

"Forgive me Miyazaki 🙏. But can someone make AI of Elon and him fighting in a parking lot?" asked another.

What do you get when you pit someone who hates AI against someone creating it? A highly entertaining fight! No wonder this user wants an AI-generated video of Elon Musk and Miyazaki fighting in a parking lot.

Hayao Miyazaki’s resurfaced 2016 comments on AI-generated animation have certainly ignited quite the debate online, especially since his own painstakingly crafted art styles are now being replicated by AI. So, what’s your take on it?

Edited by Ritika Pal
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