After meeting on January 5, both studios have signed an agreement to co-develop involving ‘The Boy and the Heron,’ as well as an immersive exhibition of Hayao Miyazaki's numerous works.
On January 5, Alibaba Pictures Group Limited (Alibaba Pictures), a leading Internet film and television company in China, forged a strategic partnership with Studio Ghibli. The partnership encompasses various fields, such as animation and the development of immersive exhibitions. This auspicious occasion not only marked Studio Ghibli's first working day of the new year, but also celebrated the 83rd birthday of the legendary animation master Hayao Miyazaki.
During the event, Toshio Suzuki, director and producer at Studio Ghibli, and Mr. Jie Li, president of Alibaba Pictures, officially signed an agreement of intent for the co-development involving Miyazaki's new film, The Boy and the Heron. The film has garnered significant attention as the opening film at prestigious film festivals and has received numerous accolades, including being named one of the "Top 10 Films" at the National Board of Review Awards in 2023 and winning the "Best Animation" award at the 49th Los Angeles Film Critics Association Awards and "Best Motion Pictures - Animated" at the 81st Golden Globe Awards. It has also been nominated for an Oscar.
Alibaba Pictures and Studio Ghibli will also collaborate to develop an immersive exhibition of Miyazaki's numerous works. This groundbreaking venture represents Studio Ghibli's first foray into the realm of immersive exhibitions. Creative Corporation, acting as the authorized representative, will undertake the responsibility of executing the exhibition. As a gesture of gratitude, Suzuki presented Mr. Jie Li with a personally handwritten note entitled "The Story of Studio Ghibli" during the event. Expected to take place in Shanghai in 2024, this exhibition will provide audiences with an extraordinary experience centered around the worlds of Studio Ghibli.
Leveraging Alibaba Pictures' extensive experience in the live entertainment industry through its platform Damai, the exhibit will establish a fresh connection between classic masterpieces and the audience. Enthusiastic fans and viewers will relive the profound emotions and inspiring bravery brought by the master animator. By embracing innovative cultural activities, the collaborative effort represents a significant endeavor to deepen cultural exchanges and foster mutual learning.
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