"The Boy and the Heron" is a 2023 animated fantasy film directed by Hayao Miyazaki. The story follows a young boy named Mahito who, after the loss of his mother during World War II, moves to the countryside with his father. There, he encounters a mysterious talking heron that leads him on a journey through a fantastical world filled with magic and wonder. The film explores themes of grief, healing, and the passage of time, characteristic of Miyazaki's storytelling. As a highly anticipated release from Studio Ghibli, it has been lauded for its breathtaking animation and emotional depth.