Der Junge und der Reiher (JP 2023)

12-year-old Mahito leaves Tokyo, his hometown, after his mother’s death when she falls victim to an airstrike in World War II. Together with his father and his new wife, he moves to their old home in the countryside. Cut off from the world, Mahito explores the enchanting landscapes of his surroundings and meets a grey heron that refuses to leave his side. The heron helps the young boy understand the world better and to figure out the mysteries of life. “Der Junge und der Reiher” is the celebrated new anime film from master filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki, based on autobiographical references. In 2024, the film was awarded the Oscar for the Best Animation Film.