Introduction

In an enchanting twist of fate, Singapore has become a canvas for anime enthusiasts as ChatGPT's latest feature allows users to convert their photographs into characters resembling those from the legendary Studio Ghibli. The surge in creativity has resulted in a vibrant stream of Ghibli-inspired images filling social media platforms, captivating both locals and tourists alike.

The Trend Begins

Since March 26, when OpenAI launched its AI-powered image generation tool, residents in Singapore have eagerly transformed themselves into whimsical characters resembling those from iconic films such as *My Neighbour Totoro* (1988), *Spirited Away* (2001), and the recently released *The Boy And The Heron* (2023). The trend is not confined to personal portraits; even Singapore’s famous landmarks like the Singapore Flyer and ArtScience Museum have been reimagined in the Ghibli style by both residents and visitors.

Meme Culture and Political Engagement

Local meme creators, particularly SGAG, have further contributed to the phenomenon by reinterpreting recent Singapore news stories as scenes reminiscent of Studio Ghibli films. From featuring former Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong with a 'magic cup' to capturing emotional moments at national events, these memes resonate deeply with the populace, making everyday events feel magical.

As the general election looms, politicians have also joined the Ghibli fun, using this delightful trend to connect with younger voters.

The Ghibli Charm

What draws people to become Ghibli characters? According to caricature artist Kent Lau, there’s an undeniable charm in being depicted as a Miyazaki protagonist. He playfully highlights the appeal, stating that while Miyazaki 'friendly-fies' faces, his art may 'uglify' them.

Global Response

The International response to this viral trend has been astounding, with even major institutions like the White House getting involved. A recent post showed a whimsically animated image of an emotional moment involving an alleged felon being deported. This particular trend has transcended the realm of anime, leading users globally to associate this enchanting visual style even without having watched the actual films.

Ethical Concerns

However, as excitement grows, so do concerns regarding the ethical implications of using generative AI. Supporters of Studio Ghibli, led by a dedicated fan base, have raised issues regarding the potential mass replication of Ghibli’s unique art style. The legendary director Hayao Miyazaki, now 84, has been vocal against the use of AI in creative works, expressing his distaste in a 2016 interview, where he stated, “I am utterly disgusted… It’s an awful insult to life itself.”

The stark contrast between the labor-intensive process of traditional animation and the instant results offered by AI is not lost on many. For instance, animator Eiji Yamamori famously dedicated over a year to animate just four seconds of footage—a process that artificial intelligence can reproduce in mere seconds.

OpenAI's Response

Due to the overwhelming demand for this AI feature, OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman publicly requested users to temper their enthusiasm, humorously noting that 'our team needs sleep' and that the current usage levels are 'insane'.

ChatGPT Usage in Singapore

While exact data for Singapore's user base remains to be disclosed, it has been highlighted that Singaporeans have ranked among the highest per capita users of ChatGPT globally, reflecting their enthusiasm for such digital innovations. A report from Reuters indicates that the recent Ghibli-inspired art craze led to a remarkable spike in ChatGPT users, pushing the service’s capabilities to their limits and sparking a surge in average weekly active users exceeding 150 million for the first time in two years.

Conclusion

With the continuous blending of technology, art, and culture, Singapore has certainly embraced this Ghibli magic as it whirls into the future, showcasing the power of creativity in the digital age.