The first Japanese film ever nominated in the category!
Fresh off its double victory at the 51st Annie Awards, Hayao Miyazaki’s latest masterpiece, ‘The Boy and the Heron,’ has secured yet another prestigious accolade, this time at the 77th British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA).
Taking centre stage at the Royal Festival Hall in London on February 18, ‘The Boy and the Heron’ clinched the highly coveted Best Animated Film award, solidifying its status as a global phenomenon. This triumph marks Miyazaki’s triumphant return to the spotlight after a decade-long hiatus from feature film production.
Competing against formidable contenders like ‘Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget,’ ‘Elemental,’ and ‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ (which clinched the Best Feature award at the Annie Awards), ‘The Boy and the Heron’ made history as the first-ever Japanese film to be nominated in this category.
With each accolade, Miyazaki’s enchanting tale continues to captivate audiences worldwide, reaffirming his unrivalled legacy in the realm of animation.
After a highly anticipated debut in Japanese theaters on July 14, 2023, ‘The Boy and the Heron’ spread its wings internationally, premiering at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival on September 7. Audiences in the United States were treated to an initial glimpse at the New York Film Festival on October 29, followed by special preview screenings in New York City and Los Angeles starting November 22. The excitement peaked with the nationwide premiere on December 8, marking a remarkable journey for Hayao Miyazaki’s latest cinematic gem.
Crunchyroll released the film in Australia and New Zealand on December 7, 2023, and describes The Boy and the Heron as:
“Mahito, a young 12-year-old boy, struggles to settle in a new town after his mother’s death. However, when a talking heron informs Mahito that his mother is still alive, he enters an abandoned tower in search of her, which takes him to another world”
As ‘The Boy and the Heron’ continues to make waves across the globe, captivating audiences with its enchanting tale and stunning animation, we want to hear from you! Have you had the chance to experience Miyazaki’s latest masterpiece? What are your thoughts on its journey from Japanese theatres to international acclaim? Share your opinions and comments below—we’re eager to hear your take on this unforgettable cinematic adventure!
Sources: BAFTA official website, “The Boy and the Heron” official UK Twitter
Consider checking out my YouTube channel for more Pop-Culture news!
https://www.youtube.com/@reviewflicks
Comic Flick News 
Leave a comment