Studio Ghibli has once again broken records and set new standards in the world of animation with the release of “How Do You Live?” Directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, this film has become the most expensive film in the history of Japanese cinema.
“How Do You Live?” is an animated film produced by Studio Ghibli and directed by Hayao Miyazaki. Taking about seven years to complete, the film made about $430 million in sales in its first month since its release in Japan.
Based on the 1937 novel of the same name, the film made history when it was released without any promotional material in Japan. However, before the US premiere, the studio has released some official images, showing that even though many years have passed, Studio Ghibli still retains the unique animation style that has become its identity.
The Story of “How Do You Live?” Set in England during the Second World War. The film tells the story of a boy named Mahito who, after losing his mother in a fire, moves to the countryside with his father and stepmother. There, he discovers a mysterious tower that transports him to a magical world. In this new kingdom, he meets friends and enemies and goes on a journey of self-discovery.
Highest-budget Japanese movie ever
Producer Suzuki Toshio appeared on the YouTube channel @yukisakimitei, where he revealed that “How do you live?” possibly the highest-budget film ever made in Japan. The previous record was “The Tale of Princess Kaguya,” with a budget of $49 million.
Although Suzuki did not disclose the total production cost, he told the host: “I think this movie probably costs more to make than any other film ever made in Japan,” causing the co-stars to respond in surprised voices, exclaiming, “So many?” He further explained that he wanted to make the film without a deadline, resulting in a completion time of 7 years.
When asked why there was no advertisement for the film, Suzuki said it was a gamble. That he’s been making movies for too long and that he wants to change the way films are made and promoted. He wanted to make the movie without a deadline, but then he thought about what would happen to Hayao Miyazaki if the movie lasted that long.
Studio director Toshio Suzuki mentioned that Miyazaki is working on the film for his purposes. grandson as he put it: “Grandpa is going to the afterlife, but he will leave this movie behind.”
US Launch details
The exact release date of “How Do You Live? ” in the US has yet to be revealed. However, the US premiere is slated to take place at the New York Film Festival (NYFF), with Studio Ghibli partnering with GKIDS to bring the film to theaters nationwide later this year.
The 61st edition of the NYFF film will be held from September 29 to October 15, but the film’s specific release date has yet to be revealed.
Do you think “How do you live?” will also surpass other Ghibli films in terms of revenue? Let us know your opinion in the comments section. Plus, read the top 5 manga recommendations for Ghibli movie fans.
Source: Yahoo Japan, YouTube