Every generation has one or more artists whose works become fondly remembered long after they are dead and gone. One film can encapsulate so man emotions, ideas, visions and feeling that you’re left sitting in your chair, processing the display you had just seen. If you consider yourself an avid fan of cinema or an avid Netflix watcher, you may ask yourself this question frequently and often. You may also have your own opinions on what makes a film good or bad.

You may ask, “Why are some films considered masterpieces? Why do many call the timeless? Would I call the same film that others consider timeless? Why are some filmmakers and artists remembered while others are remembered by a small few or no one at all?”

The issue of timelessness in an artwork, a film or play is constantly defined and redefined; but at its core, one thing can be universally agreed upon: they’re relatable. We as the viewer can connect with the struggles of the main character or we can revel in their joy, feel their loss. It is for this reason we praise these artists and storytellers on almost a mythological level.

One person who’s achieved this glorified level of recognition is Japanese anime storyteller and director, Hayao Miyazaki. Miyazaki’s films have left such an impact on not just his Japanese audiences; they’ve impacted international audiences as far as the United States.

Part of the reason for his success is the impressive use of visual artistry and powerful themes. Several themes that are consistent through his film career are a fascination of the phenomenon of flight and humanity’s ability to capture it. He also puts an emphasis on humanity’s impact and relationship with environment and the earth.

Many of his most popular films, such as "Princess Mononoke and "Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind" focus directly on the lack of harmony with man and nature. In addition, Miyazaki also focuses on the role of women in his stories, with women taking on impactful heroic and central roles. Miyazaki’s films also provide a gray place in regards to morality. Those watching the film determine who is just and unjust, good and evil.

Miyazaki began his legendary career an animator working for a film corporation. He wouldn't start his career directing until 1979, when he directed his first animated feature film, "The Castle of Cagliostro." Since then, he has produced over eleven internationally praised cinematic works and has even won an Oscar for best animated feature film in 2001 for "Spirited Away," considered by many to be his masterpiece.

Since then, Miyazaki’s films have gained a huge following of fans in the United States by fans of anime and people, like me, who aren’t major fans of the genre but appreciate the art form of it.

I first came to know Miyazaki from an early age with one of his earlier films, "Kiki’s Delivery Service." Directly aimed at a younger audience, this film values the youthful spirit of adventure, self-determination and friendship. While the film had no villain or conflict, "Kiki’s Delivery Service" illustrated a society of characters that exhibited kindness, never talking down to any of the children in the film, which made it connectable to my younger self. While not one of his most famous works, this film left an impact within me about the important values that all of us should strive for.

One film that I watched with my younger brother that I believe is his true masterpiece is "Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind." Released in the mid 1980s, it is one of Miyazaki’s few science fiction films, focusing on a post apocalyptic world divided by the remnants of humanity fighting one another and the encroaching Toxic Jungle, a by product of the Old World’s industry polluting the Earth. Striking a balance with the youthful innocence and the sobering use of violence and warfare, this film has struck me as a power film and one of my favorites. Nausicaa, a fierce warrior, yet gentle naturalist and devoted, heroic leader, is the central figure that I think Miyazaki wishes us to strive to be.

Yet, enough of what I have to say. I leave you this: see for yourself and you decide Miyazaki’s role in cinema and storytelling history. Log out of your Netflix account and pick up one of his films in DVD format or digitally download them online. Decide for yourself if Miyazaki is a storyteller that comes once in a generation or just a phenomenon.