The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has invited two of the founders of Studio Ghibli, director Hayao Miyazaki (pictured right) and producer Toshio Suzuki (below), into its ranks on Thursday. The Academy had honored the two's work on Spirited Away with an Oscar for Best Animated Film in 2003.

The Academy already invited Miyazaki at least three previous times, but he declined each time. When Miyazaki declined in 2006, Suzuki explained why, "He does not seem to be glad with it because [he thinks] it seems to mean his retirement is near. Miyazaki's thought, 'I want to be as active as possible,' seems to be strong."

Miyazaki retired from directing feature films last year. Suzuki stepped down from his producer role this year, although he is assuming the new title of "general manager."

Composer Joe Hisaishi ( Spirited Away, Departures ), a frequent collaborator on Miyazaki's films, was invited last year. Kunio Katō was invited in 2009 after becoming only the second Japanese animator to win an Oscar with his "La Maison en Petits Cubes" ("Tsumiki no Ie" or House of Blocks) short.

In addition to Miyazaki and Suzuki, Academy also invited actor Clancy Brown (Pom Poko), actor Josh Hutcherson (Howl's Moving Castle), producer Kevin Reher (Ponyo), composer Steve Jablonsky (Steamboy), director Jennifer Lee ( Frozen ), and producer Peter Del Vecho ( Frozen ) this year.

Thanks to Daniel Zelter for the news tip

Source: The Hollywood Reporter