Edited by Charlotte Lewis; written by Madison Challis
Studio Ghibli's latest masterpiece, "The Boy and the Heron," directed by the brilliant Hayao Miyazaki, stands out as a cinematic gem that intricately weaves themes of society, family, conflict, loss, and childhood. This coming-of-age film serves as a reflective mirror of Miyazaki's own life experiences and philosophies, resonating deeply with its audience with a depth and sincerity akin to many of Miyazaki's works.
The narrative follows Kenji, a young boy in a village undergoing industrial transformation, who forms a magical bond with a mystical heron from the nearby forest. This bond leads Kenji to become a defender of nature as he navigates the environmental impacts of industrial advancement and overpopulation. Through an old ruin near his house, Kenji and the Heron enter a fantastical world where people from the ‘real’ world appear to live at different ages, a realm for those who choose not to grow up or live in the real world. This setting becomes a backdrop for Kenji's journey, highlighting the contrast between the innocence of childhood and the complexities of the adult world.
Miyazaki's signature critique of consumerism and capitalism is elegantly interwoven into the narrative, portraying a society caught in the throes of rapid industrialisation. The relentless pursuit of material wealth overshadows the beauty of nature and the simplicity of life, a theme illustrated through Kenji’s father and his business.
Kenji's journey is marked by external and internal challenges, reflecting Miyazaki's critique of contemporary society's failings and his own struggles. The film adeptly navigates the themes of conflict and loss as Kenji grapples societal pressures, environmental destruction, and the harsh realities of growing up in post-war Japan. The portrayal of childhood through Kenji's eyes captures the wonder, imagination, and purity of youth. The film's portrayal of childhood is perhaps its most striking aspect. The ‘Wada Wada’, in the fantastical world, were a particular favourite of mine - and I thought we couldn’t get much cuter in the Ghibli universe! This is juxtaposed against the backdrop of an adult world that is often disconnected from these qualities. The narrative invites viewers to reflect on their own childhoods and the societal forces that shape our transition to adulthood.
"The Boy and the Heron" is a deeply personal reflection of Miyazaki's life, delving into themes that mirror his experiences and beliefs. The depiction of Kenji's journey resonates with Miyazaki's own childhood in post-war Japan, reflecting societal transformation and the loss of traditional values. The film emphasises the importance of family and maintaining a connection with nature, echoing Miyazaki's upbringing, his dedication to environmental activism, and his complex relationship with his family. Miyazaki intertwines his personal history, dreams, and fears more intimately than in any of his previous films, offering a window into the soul of one of the most influential animators of our time.
In conclusion, "The Boy and the Heron" is a masterful tapestry of both timeless and timely themes. Miyazaki's ability to draw from his life experiences to create a story that is both personal and universal is remarkable. This film is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates the art of storytelling and the power of animation to convey profound truths about the human experience.
Image - Vox