Saturday, May 14, 2016

RIP Makiko Futaki (1957 - 2006)

Miss Makiko Futaki.
Born June 19, 1957. Died May 13, 2016

Studio Ghibli animator Makiko Futaki passed away on Friday, May 13th of this year while being treated for an unspecified illness. She was 58 and buried in a private funeral service. 

Born in June 19, 1957, Futaki dreamed of being an animator. For over three decades Futaki would serve as the animator for an incredible list of unforgettable animated films working alongside the iconic screenwriters and directors Isao Takahata and Hayao Miyazaki.

Her first job in the animation industry came in 1979 as an in-between animator for the series Lupin The Third. Her first major work as head of animation came in 1981 with the anime film Jarinko Chie directed by Takahata, followed by Nausicaa Of The Valley Of The Wind (1984) directed by Miyazaki. She is also noted for her work on the landmark science fiction animated film Akira (1988) directed by Katsuhiro Otomo.

Futaki brought to life the characters of many Studio Ghibli films, most notably the academy award winning Spirited Away (2001), Princess Mononoke (1997), My Neighbor Totoro (1988), Castle In The Sky (1986), Howl's Moving Castle (2004), and The Wind Rises (2013) just to name a few great titles from her illustrious career. 

Futaki's dedication and love for animation was seen in the work she produced. She brought to life the characters in the films, and her amazing attention to detail contributing greatly to their success. 

This blogger for one -- as well as millions worldwide -- are grateful to have been able to experience the journey that these stories beautifully animated by her inspired the imagination time and time again. 

Arigatou gozaimasu, Makiko Futaki. Thank you very much for your dedication and the heart you put into your work You touched all of us anime fans and dreamers in a very special way. You will never be forgotten. 

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