Ahead of its upcoming premiere in Japan on July 14, The World of Reel brings word that GKIDS has acquired North American theatrical distribution rights to Studio Ghibli’s forthcoming animated movie How Do You Live. The film is set to be the final work from acclaimed filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki. GKIDS has not yet revealed the date for its U.S. release.
Before this announcement, it was revealed Studio Ghibli has decided not to release any trailers or images of the upcoming movie. This is an attempt to surprise moviegoers and long-time Miyazaki fans with the project’s story.
What to Expect in How Do You Live?
Producer Suzuki Toshio also confirmed that Miyazaki’s How Do You Live won’t be based on the 1937 Japanese coming-of-age story by Genzaburō Yoshino, despite sharing the same title. The novel is one of Miyazaki’s favorite books, which was why it was initially thought to be the source material for the movie. However, Suzuki confirmed the film will instead feature an original story. In a previous interview, Studio Ghibli executive Toshio Suzuki described the project as a “big fantastical film” being worked on by 60 animators.
Miyazaki is best known for directing moving and classic animated films including My Neighbor, Kiki’s Delivery Service, Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, and Ponyo. Fans are now able to celebrate his films through Studio Ghibli’s recently-opened theme park, which features attractions and rides inspired by Miyazaki’s work.
