The Boy And The Heron – Movie Review

The Boy and the Heron is a Miyazaki fantasy that misses the mark.

Hayao Miyazaki is known for his ability to blend fantastical elements with deep emotional resonance in his animated films. However, “The Boy and the Heron” falls short of the magic expected from the maestro. While the film explores the intertwining of life and death, it comes across as slightly disjointed and lacks the emotional impact that Miyazaki’s other works are known for.

The narrative follows Mahito, a young boy searching for his mother, as he embarks on a journey that traverses the boundary between the living and the dead. While touching, the plot takes unexpected and often absurd turns, introducing imagery that sometimes feels disconnected from the overarching story. Miyazaki’s penchant for the fantastical is evident, but in this instance, it risks overshadowing the emotional core that usually defines his work.

The film has a notable animation style that follows a traditional approach.

Although Miyazaki’s dedication to tradition is admirable, innovation and boldness could have improved the film. While undoubtedly precise, the visuals lack the extra flair that could have taken the viewing experience to new heights. One point of disagreement among viewers is whether to watch a movie’s subtitled or dubbed version. In the case of a movie like this, which features a talented cast including Christian Bale, Dave Bautista, Willem Dafoe, Mark Hamill – Granduncle, Robert Pattinson, and Florence Pugh, some viewers may prefer the dubbed version for a more immersive experience. However, the choice between dubbed and subtitled content is subjective, and viewers should consider their preferences when deciding which version to watch.

Studio Ghibli Announces Next Film, “The Boy And The Heron”

The Boy and the Heron’s heart lies in Mahito’s journey, guided by a mysterious figure that is part-heron and part-man. The interplay of lies and truth adds complexity to the narrative. As Mahito makes new friends, reunites with his mother, and encounters the enigmatic Granduncle, the film explores life, death, and creation themes. Miyazaki weaves a semi-autobiographical fantasy that pays homage to the power of friendship. However, the execution leaves a lingering sense of unfulfilled potential.

Verdict

I give “The Boy and the Heron” 3 out of 5 stars. It showcases Miyazaki’s ability to create a fantastic world rich in imagination. However, it falls short of the high expectations set by his previous works. The traditional animation style and unexpected narrative detours may leave some viewers yearning for the boldness and emotional resonance that have defined Miyazaki’s most memorable films.

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