Studio Ghibli is “not feeling negative” about the AI Ghibli filter trend, as long as no one makes “a lot” of money from it
Studio Ghibli has struck a relatively relaxed tone about the wave of AI-generated images mimicking its distinctive art style, which went viral after OpenAI updated ChatGPT's image tool. Rather than condemning the trend outright, the studio has indicated it is "not feeling negative" about fans using the filter for personal, non-commercial fun, marking a softer stance than the fierce criticism AI art has previously drawn from co-founder Hayao Miyazaki.
The caveat, according to the studio, is money: Ghibli's tolerance reportedly extends only as far as the trend remaining a casual, non-profit-driven phenomenon, with concern reserved for anyone attempting to make substantial commercial gains from replicating its look via AI. This distinction reflects a broader industry tension over AI tools trained on copyrighted artistic styles, balancing goodwill towards fans against protecting the studio's creative and commercial interests.
- Studio Ghibli is relatively relaxed about AI "Ghibli-style" image filters.
- Its concern is limited to people profiting significantly from the trend.
- Stance is notably softer than Miyazaki's past criticism of AI art.