The prestigious Cannes Film Festival is currently underway, and this year’s celebration is particularly special as it pays tribute to the unparalleled creativity and unique vision of Studio Ghibli. On Monday, May 20, the festival will bestow the Honorary Palme d’Or upon Studio Ghibli, a momentous occasion that recognizes the studio’s remarkable contributions to the world of animation. Accepting this esteemed award on behalf of Studio Ghibli, the Ghibli Museum (Mitaka), and Ghibli Park will be none other than Hayao Miyazaki’s son, Gorō Miyazaki.
The eve of this monumental event will be marked by the screening of a captivating documentary titled “Hayao Miyazaki and the Heron” as part of the Cannes Classics lineup. Directed by Kaku Arakawa, this documentary offers a rare glimpse into the creative genius of Hayao Miyazaki and his meticulous approach to filmmaking. Spanning a period of six years, the documentary delves into the making of Miyazaki’s latest masterpiece, “The Boy and the Heron,” providing audiences with an intimate look at the intricate process behind the creation of a Studio Ghibli film.
Prior to its premiere at Cannes, a condensed version of Kaku Arakawa’s documentary, titled “2399 Days with Hayao Miyazaki & Studio Ghibli,” was broadcast on Japanese television. Now, with the unveiling of the full-length version at Cannes, viewers can expect to gain deeper insights into Miyazaki’s artistic vision and the profound themes explored in his work.
“Hayao Miyazaki and the Heron” not only offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the production of “The Boy and the Heron” but also delves into Miyazaki’s personal life and his journey as a filmmaker. Through candid interviews and intimate moments captured on camera, Arakawa sheds light on Miyazaki’s brief retirement, struggles with memory loss, and the emotional impact of losing his close friend and collaborator, Isao Takahata.
Arakawa’s previous collaboration with Miyazaki, the documentary series “10 Years with Hayao Miyazaki” (2019), provided audiences with a deeper understanding of the renowned animator’s creative process and the profound themes that permeate his films. Over the course of four episodes, Miyazaki offered introspective reflections on his work, his relationship with his son, and his perspective on the passage of time.
As Studio Ghibli continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its enchanting storytelling and breathtaking animation, the Cannes Film Festival’s tribute serves as a fitting acknowledgment of the studio’s enduring legacy and its profound impact on the world of cinema. With “Hayao Miyazaki and the Heron,” audiences are invited to embark on a journey into the heart and soul of one of the greatest filmmakers of our time.