Isao Takahata (1935-2018) was a Japanese director, screenwriter, and producer, a key figure in world animation. He began his career at Toei Animation, where he formed a long-lasting professional partnership with Hayao Miyazaki. In 1985, along with Hayao Miyazaki and Toshio Suzuki, he co-founded Studio Ghibli, becoming one of its creative pillars. His directorial style is characterized by a profound realism and a focus on social and everyday themes, often in contrast to Miyazaki's fantastical imagery. His most celebrated works include the war drama *Grave of the Fireflies* (1988), considered a masterpiece, *Only Yesterday* (1991), *Pom Poko* (1994), and *My Neighbors the Yamadas* (1999). His last feature film, *The Tale of the Princess Kaguya* (2013), characterized by its unique visual style, received an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature Film. Throughout his career, he received numerous accolades, including the Leopard of Honor at the Locarno Film Festival and the French honor of Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters.