Studio Ghibli's latest film The Boy And The Heron is poised to make its North American debut next week following a successful theatrical run in Japan. Originally titled How Do You Live in Japan, the film has garnered significant acclaim and has just received recognition from the New York Film Critics Circle.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the New York Film Critics Circle's decision to rank The Boy And The Heron as the Best Animated Film of the Year highlights the movie's artistic and storytelling achievements. Studio Ghibli, known for its enchanting and imaginative animated films, continues to captivate audiences with each release. The accolade from the New York Film Critics Circle adds to the anticipation surrounding the film's North American premiere.
Here's the list of big winners at the New York Film Critics Circle:
Best Film: Killers of the Flower Moon
Best Director: Christopher Nolan, Oppenheimer
Best Actor: Franz Rogowski, Passages
Best Actress: Lily Gladstone, Killers of the Flower Moon
Best Screenplay: May December
Best Supporting Actor: Charles Melton, May December
Best Supporting Actress: Da'Vine Joy Randolph, The Holdovers
Best Animated Film: The Boy and the Heron
Best Cinematography: Oppenheimer
Best First Film: Past Lives
Best International Film: Anatomy of a Fall
Best Nonfiction Film: Menus-Plaisirs — Les Troisgros
Additionally, Karen Cooper received a Special Award for her five decades of creative leadership as director of the Film Forum.
Is The Boy and The Heron truly Hayao Miyazaki's final Ghibli film?
Initially, The Boy And The Heron was presented as the final film from the legendary director Hayao Miyazaki, who is 82 years old. However, after the movie's release in Japan, Miyazaki revealed that he was not retiring and had numerous new ideas for future projects. The revelation signaled the continuation of Miyazaki's contributions to Studio Ghibli, ensuring that audiences can look forward to more enchanting creations from the iconic director.
Ghibli's legacy extends beyond Hayao Miyazaki, as his son, Goro Miyazaki, has also contributed to the studio's impressive catalogue. With the father and son duo working together, the future of Studio Ghibli appears promising, with a continued commitment to delivering captivating and emotionally resonant storytelling.
The North American release of The Boy And The Heron on December 8, 2023, by GKIDS, marks an eagerly awaited moment for fans of Studio Ghibli. As audiences prepare to experience the magic of the latest Ghibli creation, the film's recognition by the New York Film Critics Circle further cements its status as a standout animated film of the year. The enchanting world of Studio Ghibli continues to thrive, captivating audiences with its timeless stories and unparalleled creativity.
