Hayao Miyazaki, the renowned Japanese director and master of animation, was not present at the Toronto Film Festival for the international premiere of his latest movie, “The Boy and the Heron.” However, his absence did not diminish the excitement surrounding the film, as three-time Oscar winner Guillermo del Toro made a surprise appearance at the gala presentation. The audience at Roy Thomson Hall greeted del Toro with rapturous applause, highlighting his status as one of Miyazaki’s most passionate fans.
As the crowd eagerly anticipated the screening of “The Boy and the Heron,” del Toro took the stage to introduce the film. Acknowledging Miyazaki’s influence on his own work, del Toro playfully commented, “He knows what makes my fat butt move!” The excitement in the room was palpable as del Toro revealed that this was the first time the movie would be shown outside of Japan, making it a world premiere event. Del Toro emphasized the importance of recognizing animation as a significant form of filmmaking and praised Miyazaki as a true master in the field.
Miyazaki: A Revolutionary Director
Del Toro continued to express his admiration for Miyazaki, proclaiming him the greatest director of animation ever. Miyazaki’s films, according to del Toro, transcend traditional animation and delve into profound dialogues and philosophical questions. While acknowledging the complexity of Miyazaki’s work, del Toro spoke of his ability to create films that intimately connect with the audience, as if engaging in a conversation with the director himself. The paradoxical nature of Miyazaki’s films, blending beauty with horror and delicacy with brutality, further adds to their enduring impact.
The Artistry of Miyazaki
Miyazaki’s films are known for their recurring motifs, such as flying, hope, despair, and the power of innocence. Each parable he creates is filled with deep belief in humanity, as well as the accompanying heartache that comes with it. Del Toro expressed his confidence that “The Boy and the Heron” would be no exception to this pattern of thought-provoking storytelling. In Miyazaki’s absence, this premiere offered audiences a unique opportunity to witness the latest masterpiece from a director who has revolutionized the medium of animation.
While being a passionate advocate for animation, del Toro is no stranger to the medium himself. His involvement in various animated projects, including directing and executive producing Netflix’s “Pinocchio” and serving as an executive producer on DreamWorks Animation features, further highlights his appreciation for the art form. Del Toro will also take the stage at the Toronto Film Festival to discuss the liberating potential of fantastical worlds and the magic found within intricate details. His career, filled with cinematic love letters, exemplifies the enduring impact of animation on storytelling.
“The Boy and the Heron” marks Miyazaki’s return to the big screen after a decade-long hiatus. The film follows a teenage boy as he navigates the challenges of adolescence, embarking on a psychological journey through encounters with friends and his uncle. Ultimately, he enters a magical world after discovering an abandoned tower in his new town. As audiences eagerly await the release of this highly anticipated film, it is evident that Miyazaki’s impact on the animation industry remains unparalleled.
The Toronto Film Festival’s decision to open with a Japanese title and an animated movie is a testament to Miyazaki’s global influence. Previous Studio Ghibli titles, including “Spirited Away” and “Princess Mononoke,” have also been showcased at the festival, further solidifying Miyazaki’s status as an iconic director. Despite the challenges posed by Hollywood strikes and star absences, the festival continues to celebrate filmmaking in all its forms. From the international premiere of “The Boy and the Heron” to the insightful conversation with Guillermo del Toro, the Toronto Film Festival is an unrivaled platform for showcasing the power of animation and its impact on storytelling.
Leave a Reply