Hayao Miyazaki's 'The Boy and the Heron' Tops North American Box Office

The film, led by veteran animator Takeshi Honda, is a deeply personal reflection on Miyazaki's life and legacy.

Hayao Miyazaki's latest film, 'The Boy and the Heron', is his most personal work, with the protagonist based on his younger self and the character of Shoichi based on his father.
The film is about a boy named Mahito who, after the loss of his mother, enters a magical world where he undergoes a psychological transformation.
The film is said to be a reflection on Miyazaki's life and legacy, emphasizing the importance of accepting the end and moving into the future.
Veteran animator Takeshi Honda led the animation team for the film, with Miyazaki giving him more freedom as the production progressed.
The Boy and the Heron opened at no. 1 at the North American box office, marking a first for Miyazaki's feature films.