Renowned Japanese filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki has once again gifted audiences with his latest masterpiece, "The Boy and the Heron". Released on July 14, 2023, in Japan and making its way to international screens, the film has captured the hearts of both young and old alike.

"The Boy and the Heron" is a visually stunning animated fantasy that takes viewers on a magical journey. Written and directed by Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli, the film introduces us to Mahito Maki, a young boy navigating the challenges of the Pacific War. Following the death of his mother, Mahito discovers an abandoned tower in his new town, unlocking the gateway to a fantastical world alongside a talking grey heron.

Contrary to expectations, the Japanese title pays homage to the 1937 novel by Genzaburō Yoshino but presents an original narrative unrelated to the source material. Miyazaki's storytelling prowess shines through as he weaves a tale that resonates with themes of adventure, resilience, and the power of imagination.

The film's theatrical release in Japan was met with great enthusiasm, with screenings in traditional theaters and premium formats such as IMAX. Its international release in Indonesia on December 13, 2023, has further expanded the reach of Miyazaki's enchanting creation.

To celebrate the return of the maestro of animation, here are 11 fascinating facts about Hayao Miyazaki:

1. Aviation Inspiration: Miyazaki's background in aviation, inherited from his father's involvement in building fighter plane parts during World War II, is a recurring theme in many of his films.

2. Studio Ghibli's Founding: In 1985, Miyazaki co-founded Studio Ghibli, named after the Caproni Ca.309 Ghibli military plane. The studio aimed to bring a fresh breeze to the anime industry.

3. Academy Awards Refusal: Despite winning the Oscar for Best Animated Film for "Spirited Away" in 2001, Miyazaki declined to attend the 75th Academy Awards in 2003 due to the outbreak of the Iraq War.

4. The Music Video Director: Miyazaki directed an animated music video for Chage and Aska's "On Your Mark" during the production of "Princess Mononoke."

5. Retirement and Return: Miyazaki has "retired" twice, first in 1997 after "Princess Mononoke" and again in 2013 after "The Wind Rises." However, he returned to direct "Boro the Caterpillar" and is actively working on "How Do You Live?"

6. A Worm Named Totoro: A velvet worm species discovered in Vietnam in 2007 was named "Eoperipatus totoro" after the Catbus in "My Neighbor Totoro."

7. Troma Entertainment Collaboration: Studio Ghibli collaborated with Troma Entertainment for the U.S. distribution of "My Neighbor Totoro" in 1993.

8. Miyazaki's Unique Approach: Miyazaki doesn't work from a script first; instead, he develops the story through creating storyboards.

9. Sword Protest: When Miramax considered cutting down "Princess Mononoke" for its North American release, Miyazaki sent executives a samurai sword with the message "No cuts."

10. "The Simpsons" Tribute: The Simpsons paid homage to Miyazaki in a season 25 episode, featuring references to almost all of his films.

11. Ramen Nights: Miyazaki, known for his love of ramen, would cook for his production team during the late-night sessions of making "Spirited Away."

"The Boy and the Heron" is a testament to Miyazaki's enduring creativity and the timeless magic he continues to bring to the world of animation. "The Boy and the Heron" is out now in Indonesia in select theatres.