Movies - TV
Hayao Miyazaki's Pre-Studio Ghibli Movies Are Worth A Closer Look
By RAFAEL MOTAMAYOR
Isao Takahata
Arguably, Hayao Miyazaki's most important collaboration is his partnership with Isao Takahata, whom he long considered a mentor.
Miyazaki contributed to Takahata's titles, such as "Heidi, Girl of the Alps," "Anne of Green Gables," and "3000 Leagues in Search of Mother," cementing their partnership.
Future Boy Conan
Miyazaki debuted as a director in 1978 with "Future Boy Conan," an anime series based on Alexander Key's 1970 novel "The Incredible Tide."
"Future Boy Conan" wasn't as big as Takahata's shows, but there are hints in it of the work Miyazaki would do with Ghibli, such as his quintessential character designs.
Lending A Hand
"Sherlock Hound" and "Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water" are titles that Miyazaki worked on, though he wasn't heavily involved and left the work for others to finish.
"Nadia" was directed by Hideaki Anno, whom Miyazaki mentored for a while. It features several Miyazaki staples, such as a plucky female hero with a close connection to nature.