Hayao Miyazaki, co-founder of Studio Ghibli, has once again emerged from retirement for the fourth time to bring audiences a captivating tale in “The Boy and the Heron.” Set against the backdrop of 1943, the film follows the journey of 12-year-old Mahito Maki (Soma Santoki and Luca Padovan) as he grapples with grief following his mother’s tragic death during the bombings in Tokyo.
Amidst the turmoil of war, Mahito’s father forges ahead with a new romance, marrying his late wife’s sister, Natsuko (Yoshino Kimura and Gemma Chan). The family relocates to the countryside in an attempt to find solace and safety, but for Mahito, it feels as though the memory of his mother is slipping away.
The narrative takes an enchanting turn when Mahito discovers that his mother’s family home holds secrets. A mysterious heron (Masaki Suda and Robert Pattinson) appears, revealing that Mahito’s stepmother has vanished into another world and seeks his help. The film unfolds into a poignant tale of loss, acceptance, and the discovery of a new family, all infused with the magical realism reminiscent of classic Ghibli films.
Miyazaki, known for his previous retirement following “The Wind Rises,” delivers a departure from the grounded historical drama with “The Boy and the Heron.” This time, audiences are treated to a fantastical world filled with creatures and realms, embodying a noble quest that resonates with profound messages about humanity and war.
Mahito’s journey, inspired by Miyazaki’s own childhood, adds a personal touch to the film, making it a deeply resonant and emotive experience. The animation, a hallmark of Studio Ghibli, is breathtaking, showcasing stunning visuals and delightful creatures, including a humorously power-hungry bird colony.
“The Boy and the Heron” subtly pays homage to Studio Ghibli’s rich history, featuring scenes reminiscent of iconic films like “Princess Mononoke,” “Ponyo,” and “My Neighbor Totoro.” The film’s opening, artistically drawn and depicting a war-torn landscape, evokes the spirit of works by the late Isao Takahata, co-founder of Ghibli.
While the narrative takes a somewhat perplexing turn towards the climax, Ghibli’s charm lies in its ability to move audiences even when the plot defies conventional understanding. The film invites viewers to let its magic settle in their minds, much like Mahito needs time to comprehend the events unfolding around him.
“The Boy and the Heron” stands as a triumphant return for Hayao Miyazaki to the animation industry. His unmatched talent for delivering visually stunning narratives that provoke thought remains unparalleled. As questions of retirement are once again put to rest, audiences eagerly anticipate Miyazaki’s next cinematic creation.
Release Date: Tuesday, 26 December
