Exploring the Tale of “The Boy and the Heron”: Unveiling the Plot, Cast and Release Date

Culture

Spirited Away director Hayao Miyazaki’s first film in 10 years looks like an instant classic

By | October 18, 2023

Studio Ghibli fans rejoice! The legendary writer and director, Hayao Miyazaki, known for his enchanting films such as Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, Howl’s Moving Castle, and Ponyo, is back with a new movie after a ten-year hiatus. Titled “The Boy and the Heron,” the film premiered in Japan in July and has already grossed over $52 million, despite minimal promotion.

The Boy and the Heron will have its UK premiere on October 8 and 15 as part of the Special Presentations at the BFI London Film Festival. This highly anticipated release is rumored to be Miyazaki’s last film before retirement, although the director himself has previously described himself as “a retired old man picking up trash.”

An Enchanting Tale

Set in 1943, The Boy and the Heron follows the story of Mahito, a young boy who encounters a talking grey heron near his home. To his amazement, he discovers that the heron is actually a small man inhabiting the bird’s body. The heron leads Mahito to a mysterious tower in the woods, built by his great-uncle, a famous architect who vanished. As Mahito enters the tower, he is transported to a magical alternative universe inhabited by both the living and the dead. Here, he encounters peculiar characters and experiences unexpected occurrences.

True to Miyazaki’s signature style, the plot of The Boy and the Heron is difficult to summarize succinctly. The film promises to captivate audiences with its whimsical narrative and visually stunning animation.

A Star-Studded Cast

The original Japanese version of the film features a talented cast of voices, including Masaki Suda as the heron, Takuya Kimura as the protagonist Shoichi Maki, Aimyon as a character named Himi, and Yoshino Kimura as Natsuko. Young Japanese actor Soma Santoki plays the role of the little boy, Mahito.

For the English-language version, some familiar names have joined the cast. Christian Bale, known for his role as Howl in Miyazaki’s Howl’s Moving Castle, will voice the protagonist Shoichi Maki. Robert Pattinson takes on the role of the heron, providing a reunion of sorts for two actors who have both portrayed Batman. Other notable actors include Dave Bautista as the Parakeet King, Gemma Chan as Natsuko, Willem Dafoe as the Noble Pelican, Mark Hamill as Granduncle, Florence Pugh as Kiriko, and Karen Fukuhara as Himi.

A Love for Studio Ghibli

Studio Ghibli fans have been eagerly awaiting the release of The Boy and the Heron. The trailer, which is simultaneously beautiful, horrifying, and out of this world, has generated excitement and intrigue. Some fans have chosen to avoid the trailer, as the studio intended for audiences to experience the film without any prior knowledge.

The Boy and the Heron will be released in UK and Irish cinemas on December 26, giving audiences an enchanting end to the year. As expectations run high for this long-awaited film, fans and newcomers alike can look forward to Miyazaki’s unique storytelling and unparalleled animation.