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The highly anticipated English voice cast for the latest cinematic masterpiece from the renowned director Hayao Miyazaki, titled “The Boy and the Heron,” has just been unveiled.
This hand-drawn, semi-autobiographical film marks Miyazaki’s return to the director’s chair after nearly a decade. Set against the backdrop of the Second World War, it draws loose inspiration from the work of Irish author John Connolly, particularly “The Book of Lost Things.” While initial reports suggested that this might serve as 82-year-old Miyazaki’s cinematic swan song, he has hinted that there may still be one more project brewing within him.
For those planning to experience Miyazaki’s latest animated creation in its English dubbed version, here’s a glimpse of what you can expect from the star-studded ensemble.
Taking on the role of the film’s young 12-year-old protagonist, Mahito Maki, is the talented 20-year-old Luca Padovan, whose acting credits are still in their infancy. Voicing his father, Shoichi Maki, is the accomplished Christian Bale, who has previously lent his voice to another beloved Studio Ghibli character, Howl, from “Howl’s Moving Castle.”
The roster of known cast members includes:
– Dave Bautista as The Parakeet King
– Gemma Chan as Natsuko
– Willem Dafoe as the Noble Pelican
– Karen Fukuhara as Lady Himi
– Mark Hamill as Granduncle
– Robert Pattinson as the Gray Heron
– Florence Pugh as Kiriko
– Mamoudou Athie, Tony Revolori, and Dan Stevens as the Parakeets
“The Boy and the Heron” premiered in Japanese theaters in July, and in September, it was showcased at the Toronto Film Festival. It will be available for viewing in IMAX at the TCL Chinese Theatre on Oct. 18. The eagerly awaited official theatrical release, which most fans will be anticipating, is scheduled for Dec. 8.