By Jayden Nguyen
After a decades-long hiatus from directing films, Studio Ghibli’s Hayao Miyazaki reintroduces himself to fans through the 2023 film release “The Boy And the Heron.”
The animated movie follows Mahito, a 12-year-old boy, who tries to settle down but has a difficult time finding a home after the passing of his mother. Until one day a heron tells him that his mother is still alive in a tower. To save his mother in an attempt to attain the life that he once had, he enters the tower, only to find himself transported to another world.
“The Boy and the Heron” is reminiscent of classic Studio Ghibli films like “Spirited Away” and “Princess Mononoke.” The color scheme always keeps the viewer engaged, ranging schemes from the grim “Grave of Fireflies” to the playfulness “Howl’s Moving Castle.” The classic style of Studio Ghibli is seen through its fluid and beautiful animation, bringing us back to a time when everything was simpler.
Miyazaki’s magical essence extends beyond animation. Besides the visuals, his films also include some of the most memorable soundtracks that perfectly harmonize with the flow of his films. “The Boy and the Heron” serves as a reminder of how Miyazaki’s creations has all the glimpses that rekindle the nostalgia of watching his films when we were younger.
Miyazaki masterfully combines the orchestral music to the fluid animation of the studio.
The global release of “The Boy and the Heron” is Dec. 8. Will you be there to watch it?
