In a move that will delight fans of Studio Ghibli’s enchanting storytelling, Warner Bros. Discovery has announced a multiyear agreement with independent distributor GKids, extending Max’s exclusive U.S. film streaming rights for the legendary Japanese animation house. This deal renewal not only ensures that Max remains the stateside streaming home for nearly two dozen beloved Studio Ghibli films, but it also paves the way for Hayao Miyazaki’s latest masterpiece, “The Boy and the Heron,” to grace the platform in the near future.
Fresh off its triumph at the Academy Awards, where it claimed the coveted Best Animated Feature Oscar, “The Boy and the Heron” will soon be available for streaming on Max in the U.S. This semi-autobiographical gem, hand-drawn by the master himself, marks Miyazaki’s long-awaited return to feature filmmaking after a decade-long hiatus, and its streaming debut on Max is sure to be a eagerly anticipated event for animation enthusiasts and cinephiles alike.
Produced by Studio Ghibli co-founder Toshio Suzuki and featuring a whimsical score from Miyazaki’s longtime collaborator Joe Hisaishi, “The Boy and the Heron” weaves a poignant tale of loss, healing, and the magical bonds that transcend time and space. After losing his mother during the war, young Mahito finds himself drawn into a secluded tower, where a mischievous gray heron serves as his guide to a fantastical world shared by the living and the dead. As Mahito embarks on an epic journey, he must uncover the secrets of this realm and the truth about himself, all while navigating the complexities of grief and self-discovery.
While an exact streaming premiere date has yet to be announced, the addition of “The Boy and the Heron” to Max’s already impressive Studio Ghibli collection is a testament to the streamer’s commitment to showcasing exceptional animation from around the globe. From the beloved classics like “My Neighbor Totoro,” “Kiki’s Delivery Service,” and “Spirited Away” to more recent offerings like “Earwig and the Witch,” Max has become a veritable treasure trove for Ghibli fans seeking immersive storytelling and breathtaking visuals.
“Our subscribers are always looking for unique stories, and we are happy to continue to offer these award-winning, critically acclaimed films and to add ‘The Boy and the Heron’ to our deep and rich Max content offering,” said Elizabeth Bannan Atcheson, VP of content acquisitions at Warner Bros. Discovery.
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With “The Boy and the Heron” setting new box office records and earning widespread critical acclaim, its arrival on Max promises to introduce Miyazaki’s latest magical world to a wider audience. As the film continues its theatrical run, anticipation builds for the streaming premiere, where audiences can once again lose themselves in the master storyteller’s captivating vision.
