The legendary Hayao Miyazaki is No. 1 at the North American box office for the first time in his decades-spanning career. Miyazaki’s latest and most anticipated work, “The Boy and the Heron,” debuted with $12.8 million, according to studio estimates. This makes it only the third anime to ever top the box office in U.S. and Canadian theaters and the first original anime to do so. This milestone emphasizes the longstanding influence and impact of Miyazaki’s works, and the power of animation films that transcend cultural boundaries.
Miyazaki, an Academy Award winner known as the master of anime, has given us some of the most iconic works of art in animation history. Films like “Spirited Away,” “My Neighbor Totoro” and “Kiki’s Delivery Service” have become instant classics and their influence can still be seen today. Fans of the director have been anticipating “The Boy and the Heron” since it was announced years ago.
The film, which is playing in both subtitled and dubbed versions, follows the story of a young boy and a mysterious heron. After his mother perishes in World War II bombing, the boy is taken to a fantastical realm by the heron. The English dub cast includes Robert Pattinson, Christian Bale, Dave Bautista and Mark Hamill.
“The Boy and the Heron,” has already achieved tremendous success before it’s North American debut. Last year it was the highest-grossing anime in Japan, taking in $56 million, and incredibly positive reviews from around the world. It’s even been hailed as one of the best films of the year.
Miyazaki might be 82-years-old, but that hasn’t stopped him from pushing the limits and doing what he loves. His passion for filmmaking has propelled him to reach this incredible milestone. As Studio Ghibli’s vice president Junichi Nishioka has said, the previously retired Miyazaki is still working towards another film.
The success of “The Boy and the Heron” cements Hayao Miyazaki’s legacy as one of the world’s most beloved anime directors. His influence and impact have been felt for decades and is sure to remain strong in the future. We can only hope to see more amazing works from Miyazaki in the years to come.
