How Do You Live? | A Japanese animated historical fantasy film

How Do You Live? | A Japanese animated historical fantasy film

Hayao Miyazaki's latest masterpiece, "How Do You Live?", is a Japanese animated historical fantasy film released in 2023. Miyazaki, the renowned director and writer, brings this captivating story to life with the support of Studio Ghibli.

The film has garnered widespread acclaim for its breathtaking animation, profound storytelling, and its exploration of profound themes such as life, death, and the essence of existence. Audiences have been captivated by its visual splendor and thought-provoking narrative, making it a commercial success with a global box office gross of over $100 million.

👉 "How Do You Live?": Introduction of the film

While the film draws inspiration from Genzaburo Yoshino's 1937 novel of the same name, it introduces an original narrative that stands on its own. Set in Japan during World War II, the movie revolves around the young protagonist Mahito Maki (voiced by Soma Santoki), whose life is forever altered when his mother tragically perishes in a fire.

👉 "How Do You Live?": An Impressive Cast

In "How Do You Live?", the film boasts an exceptional voice cast including Soma Santoki, Masaki Suda, Ko Shibasaki, Aimyon, Yoshino Kimura, Takuya Kimura, Karou Kobayashi, and Shinobu Otake, all of whom bring their talent and skill to breathe life into the characters. Described as an awe-inspiring epic, the story follows Mahito Maki as he embarks on a journey of discovery after stumbling upon an abandoned tower in his new town, leading him into a fantastical world inhabited by a wise grey heron with the gift of speech.

👉 "How Do You Live?": Unveiling the Story-line

Throughout the film, Mahito grapples with the existential question of how one truly lives and searches for his purpose in the world. His path is fraught with numerous challenges, including poverty, loss, and the quest for meaning. Through his remarkable experiences, Mahito learns invaluable lessons about the significance of compassion, courage, and the indomitable strength of the human spirit.

👉 "How Do You Live?": Exploring Themes

This extraordinary film delves into various compelling themes, including friendship, family, the profound connection to nature, and the importance of forging one's own path in life. Here are some of the central themes that "How Do You Live?" explores:

(i) The elusive meaning of life

(ii) The transformative power of compassion

(iii) The resilience of the human spirit

(iv) The awe-inspiring beauty of the natural world

(v) The enduring significance of family and friends

(vi) The trials and triumphs of personal growth

👉 "How Do You Live?": Critical Acclaim

Following its release in Japan on July 14, 2023, "How Do You Live?" has garnered critical acclaim from reviewers. Critics have lavished praise upon the film for its stunning animation, poignant narrative, and profound thematic exploration. Serving as Miyazaki's final feature film, "How Do You Live?" is widely regarded as a fitting conclusion to his illustrious career, leaving an indelible mark on the world of animation.

Here is a glimpse of what critics are saying about "How Do You Live?":

"A mesmerizing and thought-provoking film that resonates long after the credits roll." - The Hollywood Reporter

"A masterpiece crafted by one of the most exceptional animators in history." - The New York Times

"A must-see for both Hayao Miyazaki enthusiasts and lovers of exceptional animated cinema." - IGN

However, the film's title, "How Do You Live?", presents a question that has confounded philosophers and theologians for centuries. It remains an inquiry that each individual must ultimately answer for themselves. While the film does not offer a definitive solution, it provides profound insights into the essence of leading a meaningful life.

👉 "How Do You Live?": A Remarkable Conclusion

However, the film's title, "How Do You Live?", signifies Miyazaki's triumphant comeback to the world of filmmaking after a five-year hiatus, igniting immense enthusiasm among his devoted fan base. Serving as a meditation on life's purpose, this beautifully animated and thought-provoking film is certain to resonate with audiences of all ages.

Despite this, "How Do You Live?" is commonly regarded as Miyazaki's magnum opus and is poised to transcend time, solidifying its status as a timeless masterpiece in the realm of Japanese animation.

*****

👉 Killers of the Flower Moon, an American crime drama film, 2023

👉 Insidious: The Red Door (2023), an American supernatural horror film

👉 22nd SCO Summit, 2023 | July 4, 2023

👉 Tour de France 2023, a renowned cycling race in France

👉 ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 | Teams, Schedule and Stadiums