Hayao Miyazaki is a Japanese animator, screenwriter and director. His movies also are the fascination of sophomore Kayla Eckardt. lhsimage.com looks into this obsession and asks Eckardt questions regarding Hayao Miyazaki movies.

Q: What is a simple explanation of what Hayao Miyazaki films are?

A: They are animated Japanese films that usually have a fantasy plot line. Technically, they are a form of Disney and they are also sponsored by Disney. The movies are really entertaining. Most of them are for kids but there are some mature ones. Princess Mononoke is much more dark and gory than say, My Neighbor Totoro which is much lighter and childish.

Q: How long have you liked these movies? What started the obsession?

A: I started becoming really obsessed after I saw Spirited Away on TV in sixth grade. My stepsister owned three Hayao Miyazaki movies and once I started watching them, I needed to have all of them. Now, I have seven. I also want to get The Secret World of Arrietty for Christmas since it just came out.

Q: Why do you like these films more than other animated movies?

A: They are really unique and I like the art style, which is mostly anime. Also, they always have a really deep plot; there’s always a big conflict and ends with a good resolution. They make me feel happy.

Q: What is your favorite Hayao Miyazaki movie and character?

A: My favorite movie is probably Spirited Away because it was the first Hayao Miyazaki movie I watched. I love all the characters and I love the story. It’s really unique and is also full of Japanese culture and Shintoism. I had never known anything about those until I watched it. My favorite character is easy: Totoro! He’s cute, fluffy and cuddly in My Neighbor Totoro.

Q: Should other people at Lafayette watch these movies?

A: I think people should know about them and watch them. I know a lot of people wont like them because they are so different and a lot of people don’t like different things. If you’re in to Japanese culture, anime or you just like to try new things and watch movies, then I think they are great. I think more people should appreciate them.