[Animated Fantasy Film] The Boy and the Heron

Watched on: 04/13/2024

Reviewed on: 04/13/2024

Director: Hayao Miyazaki

This film is considered to be the magnum opus of director Hayao Miyazaki, marking a remarkable end to his illustrious career!

The narrative centers on Makoto, a young boy who moves to a rural mansion with his father after the tragic loss of his mother in a wartime fire. The storyline weaves through the complexities of Makoto's interactions with his new stepmother and his encounters in a mystical world accessed through a mysterious tower. This otherworld is not only a place of wonder but also serves as a metaphoric battleground for Makoto's inner conflicts and the historical echoes of Japan's imperial past.

One of the film’s most compelling characters is a heron, symbolizing Makoto's unprocessed id—the raw and untamed part of his psyche. The heron is pivotal in linking the narrative's real and surreal elements, guiding Makoto through experiences that challenge his perceptions of reality and morality.

Miyazaki uses the film’s lush visuals and nuanced storytelling to delve into heavy themes such as environmentalism, the repercussions of war, and the moral questions surrounding technological advancement. The heron, both a guide and a provocateur, forces Makoto to confront uncomfortable truths about his desires and the realities of his world.

On a personal note, because I have a deep impression of Yubaba from "Spirited Away," I also really like the old women in this film.

Although I enjoyed the movie itself, I noticed that the number of memorable characters, dialogues, and lines in this film seemed to be relatively few compared with "Spirited Away."