Hayao Miyazaki is a prominent Japanese director, animator, and manga artist, acknowledged for his globally acclaimed animated films, including Spirited Away (2001) and Princess Mononoke (1997).
Similar to numerous animators, Miyazaki holds a strong fascination with expressing motion in his creations. His extraordinary powers of observation, akin to those of a visual artist, empower him to scrutinize the surrounding environment, and this skill has garnered respect from his peers.
His expertise in illustrating human motion has unquestionably been instrumental in his exceptional accomplishments as a filmmaker and animator. Miyazaki’s movies are renowned for their captivating narratives, imaginative and immersive universes and intricately portrayed characters.
Hayao Miyazaki’s final Studio Ghibli production has now become the most expensive film ever made in the history of Japanese cinema.
Hayao Miyazaki’s The Boy and The Heron is the most expensive movie in Japanese Cinematic History
Producer Toshio Suzuki made an appearance on the YouTube channel, during which he disclosed that The Boy and The Heron (previously titled How Do You Live?) is probably the most expensive film ever produced in Japan. The former record-holder was The Tale of Princess Kaguya, which had a budget of $49 million.
While Suzuki didn’t disclose the exact production expenses, he did mention: “I think this film probably cost more to make than any other film ever made in Japan.” In response, the co-hosts expressed astonishment, exclaiming, “That Much?”
Suzuki went on to clarify that his intention was to create the film without being constrained by a deadline, which ultimately led to its seven-year production period.
When questioned about the less promotion for the film, Suzuki explained that it was a risk. After years of creating movies, he wanted to alter the traditional approach to film production and marketing. He desired to craft the movie without the constraints of a fixed release date. However, he also considered the impact this prolonged process might have on Hayao Miyazaki.
Toshio Suzuki has also shared that Miyazaki is creating this film for his grandson as a way to convey the message, “Grandpa is moving onto the next world soon, but he is leaving behind this film.”
All You Need to Know About The Boy and The Heron
The Boy and The Heron is an animated movie produced by Studio Ghibli and directed by Hayao Miyazaki. Over the span of about seven years, the film has garnered roughly $430 million in income in its initial month following its debut in Japan.
Adapted from a 1937 novel of the same title, the movie created a historic moment when it was launched in Japan devoid of any promotional material. Nevertheless, prior to the U.S. premiere, the studio unveiled a few official images, showcasing that, despite the passage of numerous years, Studio Ghibli has retained its distinctive animation style, which has become synonymous with its brand.
The story of The Boy and The Heron unfolds in England during the Second World War period. It chronicles the experiences of a young boy named Mahito, who, following the tragic loss of his mother in a fire, relocates to the countryside with his father and stepmother.
In this pastoral setting, he stumbles upon an enigmatic tower that teleports him away to a fantastical realm. Within this alternate world, he crosses paths with companions and adversaries, embarking on a voyage of self-discovery.
The Boy and The Heron will premiere in the international market with a screening during the Toronto International Film Festival this month.
Source: Anime Senpai
