Studio Ghibli and Gkids have teamed up to bring audiences another sensational animated film, The Boy and the Heron. With a strong Thursday opening of $2.39 million and early-access previews, the film is on track to make over $10 million in its debut weekend. Drawing a comparison to last weekend’s Japanese live-action title Godzilla Minus One, which grossed $11.4 million, The Boy and the Heron has the potential to dominate the box office. The film played at 1,774 theaters in the US and Canada, with showtimes starting at 5 p.m. on Thursday. As the first Studio Ghibli film to be presented in Imax, it has already created quite the buzz among fans. Furthermore, the film boasts an impressive voice cast, featuring renowned actors such as Christian Bale, Dave Bautista, and Willem Dafoe.
The Boy and the Heron follows the story of Mahito, a young boy who yearns for his mother and embarks on a journey through a world that blurs the line between the living and the dead. Directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, who came out of retirement to make this film, The Boy and the Heron delves into themes of life, death, and creation. Miyazaki’s last film, The Wind Rises, earned $5.2 million in the United States through Disney. The Boy and the Heron, however, is expected to surpass that figure and become the highest-grossing Studio Ghibli film in North America.
The Boy and the Heron is set to achieve a major milestone as it surpasses the opening footprint of 1,522 theaters set by 2012’s The Secret World of Arrietty. With a release in 2,205 theaters, including Imax and PLF, this film is not only the widest opening for a Studio Ghibli production but also for any Gkids release. The film is being screened in both subtitled and English-dubbed versions to cater to a wider audience. With its captivating story, beautiful animation, and the added allure of a star-studded cast, The Boy and the Heron has already garnered critical acclaim, boasting a 95% certified fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Prior to its release in the US, The Boy and the Heron enjoyed immense success overseas, grossing over $84 million worldwide. In Japan, it became Miyazaki’s highest-grossing opening ever, even without any significant promotional efforts. The film premiered as the Opening Night Gala Presentation at the Toronto International Film Festival, making it the first Japanese or animated film to receive such an honor. It has also been recognized by prestigious awards bodies, including the New York Film Critics Circle and the National Board of Review.
While The Boy and the Heron dominates the box office, other films are vying for a spot in the top three. Godzilla Minus One, the highest-grossing Japanese live-action title in the US, is expected to earn $5-$6 million in its second weekend. Meanwhile, Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé, a concert documentary by the 32-time Grammy winner, is also projected to make around $6 million. The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, Lionsgate’s prequel film, continues to perform well with a running total of $126.2 million.
In the midst of these box office battles, other independent films are making their mark. Waitress, the feature adaptation of the Broadway musical released by Bleecker Street, earned $672,000 in its opening weekend. Napoleon, an Apple Original Production distributed by Sony, has reached a running total of $48.9 million. Furthermore, Emma Stone’s bold and audacious film Poor Things, produced by Disney’s Searchlight, has garnered significant attention among awards bloggers and media. With a unique and provocative storyline, the film is anticipated to attract arthouse audiences.
The Boy and the Heron’s triumphant debut at the box office marks another success for Studio Ghibli and Gkids. With its enchanting story, breathtaking animation, and talented voice cast, the film has captivated audiences around the world. As it surpasses previous records and expands into new territories, The Boy and the Heron solidifies Studio Ghibli’s position as a powerhouse in the animated film industry. Amidst the fierce competition, independent films like Poor Things continue to make their mark, highlighting the diversity and creativity of the filmmaking landscape.