According to the latest update, Hayao Miyazaki's latest film, "The Boy and the Heron" (also known as "How Do You Live?") has sold over 4.95 million tickets and generated approximately 7.41 billion yen (around US$50.6 million). During its first three days, the film sold 1.003 million tickets and earned about US$13.2 million, and on the long weekend, it sold 1.353 million tickets and earned 2.149 billion yen (about US$15.53 million). In addition, the film premiered in IMAX alongside its general release on July 14, outperforming Hayao Miyazaki's 2013 film "The Wind Rises" by 50%. A new record was also set at this IMAX opening.
The film will be released simultaneously in IMAX as well as Dolby Atmos, Dolby Cinema, and DTS:X. Mahito, who lost his mother in the Tokyo firebombings, moves to the country with his father after losing his mother in the war. His mother is nowhere to be found, so he embarks on a journey to another world in hopes of finding her.
The cast includes voices from notable figures like Soma Santoki and Takuya Kimura, with the story being derived from Genzaburō Yoshino's 1937 novel "How Do You Live?". The film has garnered attention for its unique marketing approach, foregoing trailers, TV spots, newspaper ads, and even withholding much of the plot and staff information until its release.
The film is set for international premieres, including at the Toronto International Film Festival and the San Sebastian Film Festival, showcasing Miyazaki's work to a global audience. The movie's exploration of a poignant story against the backdrop of war, coupled with Studio Ghibli's distinctive animation style, has contributed to its success and anticipation in the international film community.
