Anime fans and cinema lovers eagerly await the release of The Boy and the Heron, the newest masterpiece from legendary filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki. Despite his previous announcements of retirement, Miyazaki continues to surprise us with his creative projects. This upcoming film, written and directed by Miyazaki himself, is a must-watch for any Studio Ghibli fan and further solidifies his reputation for delivering exceptional cinematic experiences.
The Boy and the Heron Release Date
The Boy and the Heron, also known as Kimitachi wa Do Ikiru ka or How Do You Live?, premiered in Japan on July 14, 2023, distributed by TOHO. Following its success in Japan, GKIDS acquired the North American rights, and the international release is set for December 8, 2023.
The Boy and the Heron Story
Set during World War II in 1943, the film follows the journey of Mahito Maki, a 12-year-old boy grappling with the loss of his mother, Hisako, in a tragic fire. Forced to adapt to a new life, Mahito faces even more challenges when his father remarries and moves the family to his late wife’s countryside estate. In this unfamiliar environment, Mahito must navigate grief, alienation at school, and a tense relationship with his soon-to-be stepmother, Natsuko, who is expecting a baby.
Amidst these trials, Mahito encounters a mysterious grey heron that frequently crosses his path. A turning point occurs when Mahito discovers a copy of the novel How Do You Live? with a handwritten message from his late mother. This discovery sets him on an extraordinary journey as he learns that the heron holds more significance than meets the eye.
The Boy and the Heron Characters and Voice Actors
| Character | Japanese Voice Actor/Seiyuu |
|---|---|
| Mahito Maki | Soma Santoki |
| The grey heron | Masaki Suda |
| Himi | Aimyon |
| Izumi | Keiko Takeshita |
| Natsuko | Yoshino Kimura |
| Shoichi Maki (Mahito’s father) | Takuya Kimura |
| Old Pelican | Kaoru Kobayashi |
| The Parakeet King | Jun Kunimura |
The Boy and the Heron Trailer
Studio Ghibli took a unique approach with the release of The Boy and the Heron in Japan, deliberately keeping traditional promotional materials under wraps. Trailers, images, and casting information were withheld prior to its Japanese premiere, with only a single poster giving fans a glimpse. This strategy generated immense intrigue and curiosity, resulting in critical acclaim and impressive box office success, grossing over $54 million in Japan. The first official teaser trailer was released on September 7 by GKIDS Films.
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Source: ONEESPORTS
