At the Cinema: The Boy and the Heron

Hey there! I recently went to see "The Boy and the Heron" at the Cinema, and I just had to talk about it. This film really got to me, and I want to share why. From the story to the visuals, let's chat about what makes Hayao Miyazaki's latest movie so special. Join me in unpacking the magic of "The Boy and the Heron"!

But first, WHO IS MIYAZAKI?

Hayao Miyazaki, a renowned Japanese director, animator, producer, and screenwriter, co-founded Studio Ghibli, one of the world's most prestigious animation studios. Born on January 5, 1941, Miyazaki is celebrated for imaginative stories, vibrant characters, and profound themes in films such as "My Neighbor Totoro", "Princess Mononoke", "Spirited Away" and "Howl's Moving Castle" (which by the way is one of my favorite films). Despite retirement announcements, Miyazaki continued working on new projects, maintaining his influence in the animation world.

Hayao Miyazaki

The Plot

The Boy and the Heron narrates the story of Mahito, a young man who, following the tragic loss of his mother in a Tokyo hospital fire, relocates with his father to the Japanese countryside to embark on a new life with his aunt Natsuko, now his stepmother. Upon arriving at Natsuko's estate, Mahito begins noticing peculiar elements in the landscape, including a mysterious tower erected by a long-lost great-uncle and a gray heron that, circling him, seems intent on capturing his attention. The complexity deepens as Mahito, searching for his missing stepmother in the woods, enters the tower with the elderly Kiriko, discovering truths about the tower and the heron that propel him into a new world in pursuit of Natsuko.

Mahito and the Heron

Kiriko

Immersed in a Dreamy and Surreal Atmosphere

"The Boy and the Heron" stands out as a technically impeccable work, with Miyazaki's skill evident in the opening sequence depicting a hospital fire. The film's animations, created using traditional techniques, seamlessly blend with dynamic and skillful direction, guiding the viewer into a world beyond logic and rationality. While the beginning has a realistic basis, the film's surrealist spirit gradually envelops the protagonist and the surrounding setting.

Miyazaki's brilliance extends beyond storytelling. The visual and musical components of "The Boy and the Heron" elevate the viewing experience. The animation sequences showcase a meticulous attention to detail, from the ethereal landscapes to the fluidity of character movements. The film's musical score, composed by frequent collaborator Joe Hisaishi, complements the narrative with haunting melodies and uplifting motifs, creating an emotional resonance that lingers long after the credits roll. The synergy between Miyazaki's visuals and Hisaishi's music further solidifies the film's status as a masterful piece of cinematic art.

A New, Articulated, and Complex Universe

Similar to Mahito's great-uncle hidden inside the tower, Miyazaki crafts a completely new, articulated, and complex universe in "The Boy and the Heron." Symbolic aesthetics and philosophy converge, forming the essence of the film. Viewers, like Mahito, explore this world, uncovering its details, from disturbing dangers to the more spectacular aspects of Miyazaki's extraordinary creation Miyazaki's influence on the animation industry is undeniable, and "The Boy and the Heron" cements his legacy as a visionary storyteller. The film challenges conventional boundaries, blending genres and themes in a way that captivates audiences of all ages. Its nuanced storytelling and rich symbolism contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the potential and power of animated films to convey complex narratives and evoke deep emotions.

Mahito

The Profound Meaning

The profound meaning of "The Boy and the Heron" is complex, requiring multiple viewings to grasp its various interpretative keys. Initially, an autobiographical approach emerges, with elements such as war nightmares, a family business producing aircraft components, and complex relationships with father figures reflecting Miyazaki's childhood. Mahito's journey, marked by self-harm, symbolizes Miyazaki's own act of reopening himself to creativity, a painful yet necessary gesture for creative rebirth. Mahito's journey is not just a physical quest but also a metaphorical exploration of personal transformation and growth. The tower, a mysterious and imposing structure, serves as a metaphor for life's challenges and the unknown. As Mahito navigates its intricate passages, facing both external and internal obstacles, he undergoes a profound metamorphosis. The film invites viewers to reflect on their own journeys, emphasizing the inevitability of change and the resilience required for personal evolution.

  

Internal Bipolarity and Symbolic Dimensions

The film delves into temporal and symbolic dimensions, intertwining death and life, leading to the revelation of creation personified by Mahito's great-uncle. An internal bipolarity in Miyazaki's soul is revealed through the conflicting dualism of the tired man and the child, representing the director's personality. While the elder seeks balance, the child yearns for freedom. The final escape into the real world, seemingly reinforcing Mahito's childish component, reveals a more complex reality as he carries an indelible scar symbolizing the violent but inevitable creative act.

The Inexplicable Magic

"The Boy and the Heron" is a work layered with hidden meanings, challenging to explain fully. This enigmatic quality is one of the most wonderful aspects of Miyazaki's magic – a particular magic that can't be explained or told but must be learned to live. As with many of Miyazaki's works, nature plays a crucial role in "The Boy and the Heron." The film not only portrays the beauty of the Japanese countryside but also addresses environmental themes. The heron, a creature deeply connected to nature, becomes a symbolic representation of the delicate balance between humanity and the environment. Through Mahito's journey, viewers witness Miyazaki's subtle yet powerful commentary on the importance of preserving nature and understanding our interconnectedness with the natural world.

Mahito's Journey and Literary References

Mahito's journey to recover his aunt/mother draws parallels to Dante's descent into Hell, with explicit references to the writing "Fecemi la Divina Potestate" on the door of the tower and Dante's Inferno. The heron, symbolizing the Japanese passage to the afterlife, acts as Mahito's personal Virgil, guiding him. Additionally, it may also allude to Orpheus' descent into the underworld in search of Eurydice.Miyazaki's ability to seamlessly weave these influences into a unique narrative showcases his deep appreciation for storytelling across cultures and time periods. Viewers with a keen eye will find joy in deciphering the layers of inspiration that enrich the film's.

In Conclusion...

"The Boy and the Heron" not only marks another triumph in Miyazaki's illustrious career but also stands as a testament to the limitless possibilities of animated storytelling when guided by a masterful hand. As viewers embark on Mahito's mesmerizing journey, they are invited to explore the depths of imagination, symbolism, and the inexplicable magic that defines Miyazaki's cinematic artistry.

And what are you waiting for? Go see the trailer! 

https://youtu.be/IVHsUddTmK0?si=ag1wjF9BRJwMG-kr

Today's Blogger

Hello there! I'm Sophia Corsini from third year of liceo scientifico, and my distinct feature is my red hair. I find joy in playing the piano, a skill I've honed over the years. When I'm not immersed in the world of music, you can often find me flipping through manga pages, engrossed in captivating stories.