Hayao Miyazaki’s final film, “The Boy and the Heron,” is generating a lot of buzz as it embarks on a busy schedule in September. This hand-drawn animated feature was already released in theaters in Japan on July 14th and will now make its international debut at the Toronto Film Festival on September 7th. Just two weeks later, it will kick off the 71st edition of the renowned San Sebastian Festival in Spain on September 22nd.
Although “The Boy and the Heron” will be screened out of competition at San Sebastian, it is still a significant honor for the film to open the festival. The movie will be shown at the Kursaal Auditorium following the opening gala, adding to the excitement and anticipation surrounding its premiere.
Producers Studio Ghibli have described the film as “a grand fantasy” loosely inspired by the 1937 novel “How Do You Live?” by Japanese author Genzaburo Yoshino. The story revolves around the emotional and philosophical development of a young boy after the death of his father, offering a coming-of-age narrative with a touch of magical realism. However, Ghibli has taken an uncharacteristically secretive approach to marketing the film. They have deliberately refrained from releasing any trailers or plot summaries, hoping that fans will go into the movie with no preconceived notions. This unique marketing tactic has only heightened the curiosity and anticipation surrounding the film’s premiere.
San Sebastian has long been a fervent supporter of Miyazaki’s work. “The Boy and the Heron” will mark the fourth Miyazaki film to be showcased at the festival, but the first time he has been included in the official selection. Miyazaki’s previous films, “Spirited Away” and “Ponyo,” were screened in the festival’s Velodrome section, while “The Wind Rises” was part of the Perlak sidebar. This year, two other Studio Ghibli films, “The Tale of The Princess Kaguya” (2013) by Isao Takahata and “Red Turtle” (2016) by Michael Dudok de Wit, have also been selected for the Perlak section.
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The inclusion of Miyazaki’s films at San Sebastian is a testament to the director’s worldwide acclaim and the festival’s dedication to showcasing the best of international cinema. His unique blend of breathtaking animation, compelling storytelling, and insightful themes has captivated audiences of all ages and garnered critical praise. As one of the most celebrated and influential figures in the history of animation, Miyazaki has left an indelible mark on the industry, and his final film is eagerly anticipated by fans and critics alike.
The Toronto Film Festival, known for its celebration of diverse and independent cinema, serves as an ideal platform for “The Boy and the Heron” to make its international debut. The festival attracts cinephiles, industry professionals, and media from around the world, providing a valuable opportunity for the film to gain global recognition and build momentum before its screening at San Sebastian.
Miyazaki’s films are renowned for their stunning visual aesthetics, evocative music, and profound storytelling. His ability to craft fantastical worlds that resonate with universal themes and emotions has made him an iconic figure in the animation industry. With each film, Miyazaki transports audiences into a captivating realm where whimsy and reality collide, inviting viewers to ponder deeper questions about life, nature, and the human condition.
“The Boy and the Heron” is expected to continue in this tradition, offering a heartfelt and thought-provoking cinematic experience. As fans eagerly await its international premieres, the film’s secrecy and limited marketing only add to the intrigue and excitement surrounding its release. It is a fitting final chapter for a director who has consistently pushed the boundaries of animation and storytelling, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.
