Watching Hayao Miyazaki Make Ramen Is a Scene Straight Out of a Studio Ghibli Movie

The animated masterpieces from Studio Ghibli are just as famous for their quiet moments as they are for their epic fantasy scenes. In between riding a dragon or fighting a monster, characters (and viewers) might take a break to enjoy some beautifully animated food. The video below, which shows director Hayao Miyazaki making ramen for his crew, could easily fit into one of those scenes.

The clip shows the animation team at Studio Ghibli hard at work on Miyazaki's 2001 film Spirited Away. As production came down to the wire, it was typical for animators to keep working well into the night. One respite from these long days was their 11 p.m. staff meal.

Each night, a different employee would prepare dinner for the rest of the crew. Even director Hayao Miyazaki participated in the practice. In the clip, you can watch him make "Poor Man's Salt Flavored Ramen," which consists of instant noodles, eggs, and fresh vegetables. Like many of the meals featured in Miyazaki's movies, the dish is simple, but it becomes something greater than its parts when it brings the exhausted staff together.

Hayao Miyazaki is known for his stern—sometimes intimidating—attitude (which may explain one employee's surprise at learning he was the chef that night). Here are some straightforward quotes about life and art from the legendary filmmaker.