Ali Arsalan
Exciting news! Elysian Film Group, Anonymous Content, and Bleecker Street have snagged the UK rights to Hayao Miyazaki’s new animated film, “The Boy and the Heron.” This celebrated Japanese filmmaker’s creation premiered at the Toronto Film Festival and is headed to UK cinemas soon, courtesy of Elysian. Plus, it’ll have a special showing at the London Film Festival.
Miyazaki’s Decade-Long Return: ‘The Boy and the Heron’ – A Tale of Enchantment
Hayao Miyazaki’s triumphant return to filmmaking after a ten-year hiatus, ‘The Boy and the Heron,’ features a musical score by longtime collaborator Joe Hisaishi. The story centers on a teenage boy’s psychological growth through encounters with friends and an intriguing uncle. His world takes a mesmerizing turn when he stumbles upon an abandoned tower in his new town, leading him into a magical realm where a talking gray heron awaits.
Studio Ghibli’s Unconventional Release Strategy and UK Distribution Deal for ‘The Boy and the Heron’
Studio Ghibli’s unorthodox release in Japan led to a $48 million box office hit. UK distribution was secured through Nick Shumaker (Anonymous Content), Danny Perkins (Elysian Film Group), Kent Sanderson, Avy Eschenasy (Bleecker Street), and Vincent Maraval with Eva Diederix (filmmakers).
Bleecker Street’s UK debut includes acquiring U.S. rights for ‘Fackham Hall,’ a British comedy starring Hero Fiennes-Tiffin, Thomasin McKenzie, Katherine Waterston, and Emma Laird, with production starting in early 2024, continuing their partnership with Elysian Film Group and Anonymous Content.