OpenAI’s new AI tool turns photos into Ghibli art—but is it creative revolution or theft? | Internet reacts

This week, OpenAI made waves with the launch of its latest GPT-4o update, introducing native image generation—a feature that allows users to create detailed images based solely on text prompts.

From infographics and memes to user interfaces, the tool unlocks new creative possibilities. But one specific function has taken social media by storm: the ability to transform photos into Studio Ghibli-style artwork.

For decades, Studio Ghibli—founded by Hayao Miyazaki, Isao Takahata, and Toshio Suzuki—has been synonymous with hand-crafted, visually rich animation. From the Oscar-winning film ‘Spirited Away’ to the subtler ‘My Neighbor Totoro’ and ‘The Wind Rises’, the studio’s films are celebrated for their dreamlike landscapes, soft colour palettes, and deeply human storytelling. The labour-intensive, hand-drawn approach of Ghibli animators has long been regarded as a gold standard in traditional animation.

Now, with a simple text prompt, GPT-4o can replicate this aesthetic, allowing users to turn their vacation photos, portraits, or even viral memes into Ghibli-style illustrations. This feature has quickly gone viral, with users sharing AI-generated creations that mimic the studio’s signature artistry.

Internet explodes with Ghibli-style AI creations

Social media has been flooded with Ghibli-inspired images, showcasing everything from scenic landscapes to classic internet memes reimagined through the AI tool. One user compiled 14 of the most impressive AI-generated Ghibli artworks and captioned it:

“It’s been 24 hours since OpenAI unexpectedly shook the AI image world with 4o image generation. Here are the 14 most mind-blowing examples so far (100% AI-generated):”

Even OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman joined the fun, swapping his X profile picture for a Ghibli-style AI version of himself. He shared a humorous take on the situation, posting:

“Be me. Grind for a decade trying to make superintelligence to cure cancer or whatever. Mostly no one cares for the first 7.5 years. Then for 2.5 years, everyone hates you for everything. Wake up one day to hundreds of messages: ‘Look, I made you into a twink Ghibli style haha.’”

Backlash: Is this disrespect to Studio Ghibli’s legacy?

However, not everyone is on board with the AI-driven trend. Many fans and artists argue that the feature cheapens Ghibli’s unique artistry, which relies on hand-drawn animation rather than algorithmic automation. Some have accused OpenAI of exploiting Ghibli’s aesthetic without proper acknowledgement.

One user voiced their frustration, writing:

“Miyazaki spent his entire life building one of the most expansive and imaginative bodies of work, all so you could rip it off and use it as a filter for your vacation photos. Not into this one bit. Protect artists.”

Another user chipped in their disapproval and said:

“They could’ve just implemented or improved the usual AI art… but this one just feels like a direct rip-off of Ghibli. And the fact that it’s not even mentioned anywhere officially in the sites is a disrespect to all those hardworking artists out there.”

This controversy raises deeper questions about AI-generated art and its ethical implications. Is AI expanding creativity by making iconic art styles more accessible, or is it diluting the hard work of traditional artists?

For now, GPT-4o’s "Ghibli-style" transformation feature remains a viral sensation, captivating users while simultaneously sparking a fierce debate. As AI continues to evolve, the battle between technological innovation and artistic integrity is far from over.