The Boy and the Heron (2023)

The Boy and the Heron

• I swear, I’ll never understand anime. It’s just so odd, but yet still good in many ways. Let me clarify this: I absolutely hate stereotypical anime, but serious anime, like this, is actually really good. The animation is so impressive, with so many colors and designs that are just breathtaking. The style is pretty sweet for the most part. In this movie specifically, there were several bits that were a little questionable, but very humorous. I mean, the design of the Heron Man was so strange, but kind of hilarious. In fact, all the characters were great like that. Even though they were good, I never really cared for any of them. I really liked Lady Himi, but I didn’t feel a connection to anyone else. Well written and displayed, but no connection. That goes the same for the story. It was extremely original and fun, but also random and a little too…quirky for me. The cross from reality to fantasy was cool, but the actual fantasy was very silly. Not that it was bad, just not always my cup of tea. That actually sums up the movie nicely for me. It was fun, unique, and definitely different, but there were a few moments where I found myself getting a little bit bored. But it’s still one I’d probably revisit, and I would love to see the dubbed version. The main Japanese cast did a fantastic job, but I would love to hear the main English cast because of how stacked it is. I’d recommend this to most animation fans, and especially anime fans (obviously). This film is officially Berry Approved, so go see it now!