“The Boy and the Heron” (Japanese: 君たちはどう生きるか; lit. How do you live?) is the latest animated masterpiece from the renowned director Hayao Miyazaki, is a testament to the enduring creativity of one of the most celebrated filmmakers in the world. Released in Japan in July 2023, the film defied expectations, considering Miyazaki’s announced retirement in September 2013 and despite minimal marketing, by garnering critical acclaim and achieving significant global success, grossing over US$136 million worldwide.
What sets this film apart is its profound exploration of themes drawn from Miyazaki’s own childhood. “The Boy and the Heron” delves into the complexities of coming of age and the challenge of navigating a world marked by conflict and loss. Due to the minimal marketing, the lack of prior knowledge about the plot, characters, and themes only heightened the impact of the storytelling, allowing audiences to embark on a mesmerising journey of discovery at every key moment in the ever unfolding story.
A notable aspect of the film is its musical composition, with the legendary Joe Hisaishi creating a soul-stirring score. Adding to the emotional resonance is the theme song, “Spinning Globe,” written and performed by Kenshi Yonezu. The collaboration between these talented artists enhances the overall cinematic experience.
Set against the backdrop of World War II’s Pacific War, the narrative follows Mahito Maki, a young boy who loses his mother, Hosako, to a tragic firebombing. Left in the care of his father, a munitions factory manager, and his new stepmother, who also happens to be his aunt, Mahito grapples with the profound sense of loss. The story takes an enchanting turn when Mahito is lured by a heron to a mysterious tower, transporting him into a fantastical world where he unravels the mysteries of his destiny and family history.
As “The Boy and the Heron” unfolds, it becomes a poignant coming-of-age tale. Mahito must confront his own selfishness and learn to live for others. The film is a tapestry of touching and riveting moments, punctuated by spectacular scenes that showcase Miyazaki’s unparalleled skill in blending the mundane and the magical.
The depth of emotion and the resonance of the narrative make “The Boy and the Heron” a captivating cinematic experience. Miyazaki’s ability to craft a tale that simultaneously embraces the personal and the fantastical reaffirms his status as a storytelling maestro. The film not only pays homage to his own experiences but also invites audiences to reflect on universal themes of growth, loss, and the enduring power of empathy.
I highly recommend watching the film, whether in Japanese or English. Both seem to offer standout voice casts. I watched it with Japanese with subtitles and found it to be an enchanting experience from start to finish.
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