After a triumphant win at this year’s Academy Awards, it appears that The Boy and the Heron is continuing to make history. GKIDS and Shout! Studios have just announced that the beloved Hayao Miyazaki film will be released in 4K UHD for the first time ever.
Scheduled for release on July 9, the animated classic will be available in three special editions: 4K UHD + Blu-ray, Blu-ray + DVD, and a Limited Edition Steelbook featuring the 4K + Blu-ray combo.
In addition to the special editions, GKIDS has revealed that The Boy and the Heron will debut in high definition on major streaming platforms on June 25, with 4K quality and Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support where available.
Fans can anticipate bonus materials, including feature-length storyboards showcasing the movie’s hand-drawn artistry at various stages.
The special editions also include in-depth interviews with key members of the production team, such as Composer Joe Hisaishi, Producer Toshio Suzuki, and Supervising Animator Takeshi Honda.
Honda is also featured in a special segment titled “Drawing with Takeshi Honda,” offering insights into the animation techniques employed in the film.
The Boy and the Heron’s Special Editions Continue Its Historic Journey
This milestone marks another achievement for The Boy and the Heron, which not only marks Miyazaki’s return to filmmaking after a decade but also shattered records during its theatrical release.
The film made history as the first anime and Miyazaki film to claim the top spot at the U.S. box office, earning nearly $300 million and boasting a 97% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Moreover, there’s a poignant significance to the film’s enhanced home release. Given Miyazaki’s previous announcements of retirement, coupled with the deeply personal nature of The Boy and the Heron and its exploration of themes like death and legacy, many speculate that this could be the esteemed director’s final masterpiece.
The Boy and the Heron special editions, including 4K UHD + Blu-ray + DVD and Steelbook options, will be available on July 9 and are now open for pre-order from GKIDS and Shout Factory.