The Boy and The Beast Set for 4K UHD Release: A Cinematic Milestone by GKIDS
Mamoru Hosoda’s celebrated film, The Boy and The Beast, is making a grand reentry into the market with a 4K UHD release by GKIDS, marking a significant event for anime enthusiasts worldwide. Known for its captivating narrative and stunning animation, this new release promises to bring the magic of Hosoda’s work to life in unprecedented detail and clarity.
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The Anticipated 4K UHD and Blu-ray Release
GKIDS has officially announced that The Boy and The Beast will be available on 4K UHD and Blu-ray Disc, with distribution managed by Shout! Studios. The much-awaited release is scheduled for March 17. Anime collectors and enthusiasts can look forward to a Limited Edition 4K UHD SteelBook, which will be exclusively available on Amazon.
This release isn’t just an ordinary upgrade; it comes packed with special features including a "Making Of The Boy and The Beast" video, a collection of promotional videos, cast commentary, insights from key staff, as well as teasers and trailers.
A Part of GKIDS’ Visionary 4K UHD Series
This release is a continuation of GKIDS’ initiative to bring Hosoda’s earlier films to 4K UHD format. Their vision is to provide fans with an immersive viewing experience that stays true to the filmmaker’s original artistic intent. With this, viewers can explore new dimensions of detail and depth in Hosoda’s storytelling and animation.
Rediscovering a Masterpiece
The Boy and The Beast first took the Japanese box office by storm in July 2015, debuting at #1. It outperformed Hosoda’s previous acclaimed film, Wolf Children, becoming the second-highest grossing domestic film in Japan that year.
In the U.S., the film was initially introduced by Funimation in March 2016, garnering significant attention among audiences for its heartfelt narrative and dynamic animation style.
The Enchanting Tale of The Boy and The Beast
The story unravels around Kyuta, a young orphan from Shibuya, who inadvertently finds himself in a world inhabited by beasts. Here, he meets Kumatetsu, a tough warrior beast seeking an apprentice. Despite frequent clashes, a powerful bond forms between them, resembling that of a father and son. Their journey takes a dramatic turn when they face a common threat, testing the strength of their unique relationship.
The Creative Genius of Hosoda
Directed and scripted by Mamoru Hosoda, known for his works such as Summer Wars and Wolf Children, this film marked an evolution in his storytelling prowess and artistic expression. Scored by Masakatsu Takagi, who also composed for Wolf Children, the film’s soundtrack adds an emotional depth that complements the visual spectacle.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming release of The Boy and The Beast in 4K UHD is more than just a format upgrade; it is a celebration of a timeless story that continues to resonate with audiences. This milestone not only allows fans to experience the film in stunning quality but also ensures that Hosoda’s legacy as a master storyteller and visionary filmmaker endures for future generations.
By embracing cutting-edge technology and honoring classic storytelling, GKIDS and Shout! Studios are bridging the past and the present, rekindling the magic of The Boy and The Beast for all to enjoy.
