Hayao Miyazaki’s much-anticipated final film, The Boy and the Heron, will be the curtain-raiser at this year’s Toronto Film Festival slated for September 7. The premiere will likely be a subdued affair due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike which has drastically limited the presence of celebrities.
This latest offering from Studio Ghibli, co-founded by Miyazaki, is shrouded in mystery and showcases Miyazaki’s own hand-drawn animation. Initially unveiled in Japan on July 14 under the title Kimitachi wa Do Ikiruka or How Do You Live?, the film has already been hailed as a masterpiece in its home country. It will make its North American debut later in the year.
Studio Ghibli, renowned for classics like My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away, brings to the fore another piece of art from the legendary animator Miyazaki. The Boy and the Heron will be the first Japanese film or animation to inaugurate the festival, despite the downbeat mood set by the concurrent SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes.
On the decision to commence the festival with Miyazaki’s last work, TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey expressed his honor, stating, “[w]e are privileged to launch the 48th Toronto International Film Festival with the creation of one of cinema’s greatest visionaries. Already lauded as a magnum opus in Japan, Hayao Miyazaki’s final film commences as a straightforward tale of loss and affection, escalating to a monumental feat of imagination.”
The film, a brainchild of Miyazaki himself, is produced by Toshio Suzuki, co-founder of Studio Ghibli, and an Academy Award winner. Music for the film was created by Joe Hisaishi, a long-time ally of Miyazaki. The Boy and the Heron is all set for its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hayao Miyazaki’s The Boy and the Heron
What is Hayao Miyazaki’s final film?
Hayao Miyazaki’s final film is titled The Boy and the Heron.
When and where will The Boy and the Heron premiere?
The Boy and the Heron will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, 2023.
What studio produced The Boy and the Heron?
The Boy and the Heron was produced by the legendary animation studio, Studio Ghibli.
How has the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike affected the premiere of The Boy and the Heron?
Due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike, there will be a diminished celebrity presence at the premiere, leading to a more subdued atmosphere.
Who are the other significant contributors to The Boy and the Heron?
Apart from Miyazaki, the film is produced by the Oscar-winning Studio Ghibli co-founder Toshio Suzuki, with a musical score from Joe Hisaishi, a long-time collaborator of Miyazaki.
Is The Boy and the Heron the first Japanese film or animated title to kick off the TIFF?
Yes, The Boy and the Heron is the first Japanese film or animated title to open the Toronto International Film Festival.
More about Hayao Miyazaki’s The Boy and the Heron
- Hayao Miyazaki’s Career
- Studio Ghibli’s History
- Toronto International Film Festival
- SAG-AFTRA strike
- Joe Hisaishi’s Collaboration with Miyazaki
