So, this week I finally watched “The Boy and the Heron“, Miyazaki’s latest movie. It is no news saying that Hayao Miyazaki’s name is synonymous with great storytelling, beautiful hand-drawn animation and deep themes. The Boy and the Heron, released last year (aka 2023), mixes all these qualities in a surreal and heartfelt tale. For Studio Ghibli fans (myself included), this is a much-awaited return, as Miyazaki had previously hinted at retirement. However, with The Boy and the Heron, he shows that his storytelling has only matured, offering a rich, deep narrative filled with mystery, introspection and great art.
WARNING: Be aware!!! Spoilers ahead! Read at your own risk!
If you like Miyazaki’s movies, check this post about Ghibli movies: Reflections on Studio Ghibli movies
More info about The Boy and The Heron here
The Tale of Getting Old
I would say that “The Boy and the Heron” is a coming-of-age story. It follows Mahito, a young boy in grief, struggling with the loss of his mother during World War II events. He moves to a big house in the countryside with his father, who has remarried. There he begins a magical adventure initiated by a mysterious heron. This journey echoes many themes from Miyazaki’s earlier works, particularly Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro, where children face life’s complexities and mysteries in familiar and fantastical worlds.
I guess that Mahito’s exploration of the magical realm, filled with creatures and strange characters, is Miyazaki’s metaphor for the internal process of dealing with grief and loneliness. The film beautifully mixes together the boy’s personal struggles with philosophical questions about life, death and the passage of time, appealing not only to young audiences but adults as well.
Beautiful Animation
As expected, one of the most striking elements of Miyazaki’s films is the visual style and The Boy and the Heron does not disappoint. Every frame is meticulously detailed, boiling with life and emotion. The animation is dense and intricate, with fluid movement and vibrant colors that bond the spectator to the story. The hand-drawn style, characteristic of Studio Ghibli, imbues the film with warmth and humanity (that CGI often lacks), making it a spectacle.
Another important aspect is how nature plays a central role in both the story and its visual identity. Big forests, towering trees and flowing rivers bring emotion to the protagonist’s journey. The heron, very well drawn (although scary), played the role of a “guide to the unknown” for Mahito, helping him to better understand the world around him.
Personal Loss and Growth
While Miyazaki’s previous films have often covered topics like environmentalism, anti-war sentiments and the innocence of childhood, The Boy and the Heron focused on personal loss and growth. Mahito’s journey is one of navigating his grief and coming to terms with his new family dynamic. The movie shows the sadness of loss but also gives a way to find hope and new beginnings through Mahito’s magical experiences.
The Japanese heron (ao-sagi), a symbol of wisdom and mystery, represents an entry point into a deeper understanding of life’s cycles. This mirrors the spiritual and philosophical themes Miyazaki explored in films like Princess Mononoke and Nausicaa, but here they are more intimate, tied directly to Mahito’s personal struggle.
That’s All Folks?
There has been much speculation about whether The Boy and the Heron will be Miyazaki’s last film. While he has mentioned retirement before, the themes of this movie (coming to terms with the past, the inevitability of change and the cycle of life) seem to suggest that it may be a sort of adieu. However, it would not be surprising if this film acts as Miyazaki’s new beginning (I hope so!), as it mixes much of what he has created throughout all his movies, while also opening the door for future narratives.
Conclusion
The Boy and the Heron is a great animation with very good storytelling! For sure in my top 5 Ghibli movies list. It’s a film that blends fantasy and reality to explore profound themes of grief, growth and self-understanding. It looks amazing and deeply touches the heart, this film is a reminder of why Miyazaki remains one of the greatest animators and storytellers of our time. Whether it is his final work or not, The Boy and the Heron stands as a masterpiece that will captivate and inspire audiences for generations to come.
So, if you’re a fan of Studio Ghibli or simply appreciate beautiful stories with deep emotional meanings, this is one movie you won’t want to miss.
Ja ne!
