If you’ve been eagerly awaiting the return of the legendary Hayao Miyazaki and the magic of Studio Ghibli, you’re in for a treat. Ten years after his supposed retirement, Miyazaki is back with a brand-new animated masterpiece, The Boy and the Heron. Get ready for an enchanting journey into a world where life, death, and creation collide in a semi-autobiographical fantasy that pays tribute to the beauty of friendship. We’ve got the inside scoop on the release date, star-studded cast, plot details, and everything you need to know about this highly anticipated film.
The Boy and the Heron Release Date
The Boy and the Heron has graced the US theatres from December 8, 2023, followed by a UK release on December 26, 2023. Whether you’re a fan of the original Japanese with subtitles or prefer the English dubbing experience, there’ll be screening options to suit your preference. Scheduled to debut in 2100 theaters, the anime film is anticipated to generate $10.2 million at the domestic box office.
What’s the Miyazaki New Anime is About?
Curious about the storyline? Miyazaki, who also takes credit as the screenwriter, has crafted a poignant narrative that revolves around a young boy named Mahito. In his quest for connection with his late mother, Mahito ventures into a world where the boundaries between the living and the dead blur. Death takes on a new meaning, and life finds a fresh beginning in this semi-autobiographical fantasy.
The story, described as a heartfelt tribute to friendship, promises to tug at your heartstrings and leave you contemplating the profound themes of life, death, and the creative process. Miyazaki’s ability to blend whimsy with depth has always been a hallmark of his work, and The Boy and the Heron seems poised to continue this tradition.
Cast of The Boy and the Heron
One of the most exciting aspects of any Miyazaki film is the stellar cast, and The Boy and the Heron is no exception. Prepare to be mesmerized by the voices of both the Japanese and English-language stars.
The Japanese cast includes Santoki Soma as Mahito, Masaki Suda as the Grey Heron, Kou Shibasaki as Kiriko, Aimyon as Himi, Yoshino Kimura as Natsuko. The other cast member includes, Takuya Kimura, Shinobu Otake, Keiko Takeshita, Jun Fubuki, Sawako Agawa, Karen Takizawa, Jun Kunimura and Kaoru Kobayashi.
English-speaking audiences can look forward to hearing the talents of Christian Bale, Florence Pugh, Gemma Chan, Willem Dafoe, Robert Pattison, and Mark Hammil, among others.
This diverse and talented cast promises to bring the characters to life in a way that only Studio Ghibli can. With a mix of seasoned actors and fresh voices, The Boy and the Heron is set to deliver an immersive and unforgettable experience for audiences around the world.
The Boy and the Heron Trailer
Excitement builds with every glimpse into the enchanting world of The Boy and the Heron. Two trailers have been unveiled, each offering a unique perspective on the movie. The first teaser, featuring the Japanese voice cast and English subtitles, provides a sneak peek into the visual splendor and emotional depth of the film. Meanwhile, the official English-language trailer offers a captivating experience for audiences eagerly awaiting the dubbed version.
GKIDS, the distributor, has also treated us to a special trailer that not only showcases The Boy and the Heron but also celebrates the remarkable career of Hayao Miyazaki. It’s a nostalgic journey through the cinematic genius’s past works, serving as a reminder of the impact Studio Ghibli has had on the world of animation.
Critical Acclaim
If you’re still on the fence about whether to catch The Boy and the Heron in theaters, let the reviews convince you. As of November 30, the movie is “Certified Fresh” on Rotten Tomatoes, boasting an impressive 97% positive score. Critics and viewers alike are hailing it as another masterpiece from the visionary Miyazaki. The glowing reviews highlight the film’s ability to captivate audiences with its magical storytelling, breathtaking animation, and emotional resonance.
The Boy and the Heron, formerly known as How Do You Live?, raked in an impressive 1.83 billion yen (equivalent to $13.2 million) during its first weekend in Japanese cinemas. In terms of yen, this marks the most substantial opening in Ghibli history, surpassing the record set by Howl’s Moving Castle, which earned 1.48 billion yen.
Ending Notes
The Boy and the Heron emerges as a cinematic beacon, beckoning audiences to embark on a spellbinding adventure. Whether you’re a die-hard Studio Ghibli fan or a newcomer to Miyazaki’s magical worlds, this film promises to be a fitting finale to the director’s illustrious career. So, grab your tickets, immerse yourself in the captivating trailers, and get ready for a heartwarming and visually stunning experience at the movies. The Boy and the Heron is more than just a film; it’s a testament to the enduring legacy of one of animation’s greatest storytellers.
