Hayao Miyazaki's latest work, "How Do You Live," will make its terrestrial television debut on May 2, 2025, during the Kin'yo Road Show. This marks a significant moment for fans as it is the first time the film will be aired without cuts. Following this, the beloved classic "Porco Rosso" will be shown on May 9, 2025.
Director Miyazaki's "How Do You Live" is a long-awaited project that comes a decade after his last feature, "The Wind Rises." Originally released in July 2023, the film was promoted with minimal exposure, featuring only a poster visual. This approach was intended to encourage audiences to enjoy the movie without preconceived notions. Upon its release, it sparked conversation and quickly became a box office hit.
When "How Do You Live" was released in the United States in December 2023, it topped the weekend box office charts, further solidifying its success. The film has since received critical acclaim, winning the 81st Golden Globe Award for Best Animated Feature Film and the 96th Academy Award in the same category, marking a significant achievement as it earned Miyazaki his second Oscar. Additionally, it has set a record as the highest-grossing film among Studio Ghibli's offerings worldwide.
Set against the backdrop of World War II in Japan, the story follows Mahito, an 11-year-old boy who faces profound challenges after losing his beloved mother in a fire. Relocating with his father, Shoichi, portrayed by Takuya Kimura, to a large mansion in the countryside, Mahito grapples with a host of complex emotions as he struggles to adapt to his new environment.
As Mahito navigates his grief and confusion regarding his new stepmother, Natsuko, voiced by Yoshino Kimura, he encounters a mysterious heron that leads him to an ancient tower built by his great-uncle. This sets the stage for Mahito to get lost in another world, where he meets a cast of intriguing characters, including Kiriko, a female fisherman, and Himi, a girl with the ability to control fire. Throughout his journey, Mahito discovers the secrets of this fantastical realm, ultimately learning more about himself and the nature of life and death.
The film's unique protagonist challenges the traditional portrayals often seen in Ghibli films, where characters are typically bright and optimistic. Instead, Mahito embodies a more complex emotional landscape, reflecting Miyazaki's own childhood memories and experiences. This depth adds a layer of relatability that resonates with audiences of all ages.
In celebration of the film's first broadcast, a special Ghibli program will air on April 29, 2025, at 3:55 PM. This special will delve into the story and character of Mahito, showcasing scenes from the film while also reflecting on Miyazaki's illustrious career. Viewers can expect to see insights into the making of the film and the creative process behind it.
The special will also feature Soma Santoki, the voice of Mahito, visiting Ghibli Park in Nagakute City, Aichi Prefecture. This park allows fans to immerse themselves in the world of Studio Ghibli, with exhibitions and rare materials that celebrate the studio's iconic works.
Following the premiere of "How Do You Live," the classic film "Porco Rosso" will air the following week on May 9, 2025. This film, known for its famous line, "A pig that doesn't fly is just a pig," tells the story of Porco Rosso, a bounty hunter who is transformed into a pig and navigates the skies of the Adriatic Sea after World War I. The film features thrilling aerial adventures and the charming character dynamics that Ghibli is renowned for.
As fans eagerly await the return of Miyazaki's storytelling to the small screen, these broadcasts promise to be a nostalgic journey through the imaginative worlds that have captivated audiences for decades. With a mix of new and classic Ghibli offerings, viewers are in for an enchanting experience that showcases the artistry and emotional depth that defines Miyazaki's films.
In summary, the upcoming broadcasts of "How Do You Live" and "Porco Rosso" on the Kin'yo Road Show highlight the enduring legacy of Studio Ghibli and the timeless nature of Miyazaki's storytelling. As audiences prepare to revisit these beloved films, they can expect not only to be entertained but also to reflect on the complexities of life, love, and loss that are woven throughout these narratives.
