Hayao Miyazaki's 'Boy And Heron' locks release date in India
What's the story
The long-awaited arrival of Hayao Miyazaki's Oscar-winning Best Animated Film, The Boy And The Heron, is on the horizon for Indian audiences.
The movie, which premiered in Japan on July 14, 2023, is set to enchant Indian cinema-goers starting May 10.
The announcement comes courtesy of Warner Bros. India, the film's distributor, who had previously teased the release plans without disclosing the exact date.
Context
Why does this story matter?
Adding to its accolades, the project secured the title of Best Animated Film at both the Golden Globes and BAFTA in addition to its Academy win.
This marked director Miyazaki's second Oscar win, following his 2001 success with Spirited Away.
Written and directed by Miyazaki, the film's Japanese title is inspired by Genzaburo Yoshino's 1937 novel How Do You Live? (Kimitachi wa dō ikiru ka).
Indian fans have been eagerly anticipating its theatrical release.
Distribution speculations
Warner Bros. India confirmed their involvement in April 2019
The distribution rights for The Boy And The Heron in India had been a subject of speculation for several months.
Contrary to rumors that PVR Cinemas would handle the film's distribution, the company publicly refuted this claim earlier this month.
However, Warner Bros. India has now quashed these rumors with a tweet on Friday, confirming their involvement.
To note, audiences will have the option to choose between versions with English subtitles or an English dub.
Twitter Post
Take a look at the announcement post here
Academy Award winning movie #TheBoyAndTheHeron is all set to walk you through its magic!
— Warner Bros. India (@WarnerBrosIndia) April 26, 2024
Releasing in Cinemas in India on May 10 in Japanese with English Subtitles and English Dubbed Versions.
Watch the English dubbed trailer now!#StudioGhibli#HayaoMiyazaki#Animepic.twitter.com/ikDJyZiPKD
Cast
Meet the English voice cast of 'Boy And Heron'
The English voice cast of the animated film boasts an array of prominent actors, including Christian Bale, Robert Pattinson, Florence Pugh, Dave Bautista, Willem Dafoe, Gemma Chan, Mark Hamill, and Karen Fukuhara.
The narrative follows the journey of a teenager named Mahito, who sets out on a magical adventure.
Devastated by the loss of his mother, Mahito discovers comfort in a talking heron.
As they traverse through a fantastical realm, Mahito encounters his loved ones in a transformed state.
Successful return
'Boy And Heron' marks Miyazaki's successful return
Previously, Joyce Lee—the Managing Director of Encore Films—expressed her excitement about the Indian release of the film.
According to Lee, the film has exceeded expectations in regions where it has already been released and is Miyazaki's most successful film to date.
Denzil Dias, VP & Managing Director, India Theatrical, Warner Bros. Discovery expressed delight at allowing Indian movie enthusiasts to experience this animated masterpiece on the big screen.