How Do You Live?: Studio Ghibli’s New Film Is So Secretive, They’re Not Even Releasing Pamphlets Until the FiIm Is Out

Studio Ghibli’s highly anticipated film How Do You Live? is going to extreme lengths to prevent spoilers from leaking out. The film, which is based on a novel of the same name, will not have any trailers, promotional materials, or even a theatrical/movie pamphlet for moviegoers to purchase.

This is a departure from the norm for Japanese films, which typically have a pamphlet that includes information about the film, as well as merchandise. However, Studio Ghibli is so determined to keep How Do You Live? under wraps that they are willing to forego this tradition.

“The theatre pamphlet for the film How Do You Live? will be available for purchase at the screening venues and through online sales at a later date. The release date will be announced later through this account and other channels,” read a new announcement on Twitter by the film’s distributors, Toho.

How Do You Live? is scheduled to be released in Japan on July 14, 2023. There has been no word yet on when it will be released in other regions.

Why is Hayao Miyazaki so secretive about How Do You Live?

The decision to go spoiler-free is likely due to the fact that How Do You Live? is the final film by Hayao Miyazaki, one of the most acclaimed animation directors in the world. Miyazaki is known for his meticulous attention to detail, and he has an ardent fan-following even among non-anime fans.

Toshiio Suzuki, the producer of Studio Ghibli, revealed that the studio is at such a position that it doesn’t have to promote its films as much as it used to. He said that people are “drowning in information” nowadays, and that they are not able to enjoy the films as much if they know too much about them beforehand. The studio wants people to be able to experience the film fresh and new.

Therefore, the only marketing material available for How Do You Live? is a poster featuring a bird-like creature. Suzuki revealed that this poster received high praise from Miyazaki, leading them to choose it as the sole piece of promotion for the film.

The new feature film from director Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli has been announced! HOW DO YOU LIVE (tentative title) opens in theaters in Japan on July 14, 2023. https://t.co/fHnLM6epTS

— Studio Ghibli (@GhibliUSA) December 13, 2022

What can we expect from How Do You Live?

Based on Miyazaki’s previous films from Studio Ghibli, we can expect a beautiful and heartwarming story about the importance of family, friendship, and finding one’s way in the world.

The 1937 novel How Do You Live? by Genzaburo Yoshino is a coming-of-age story that will be adapted into a film by Studio Ghibli. This gives us some insight into the story and concept of the film.

In the novel, the protagonist, Junichi Honda, is a 15-year-old boy nicknamed Koperu, who lives with his mother and uncle after his father passes away. His uncle is a diary writer who documents Koperu’s ethical and emotional trials.

The overall plot of the story follows Koperu as he grows up and faces the challenges of adolescence. The diary entries provide insight into his thoughts and feelings, and help him to come to terms with the challenges he faces.

The story of How Do You Live? is a coming-of-age tale that delves into themes of family, friendship, and the meaning of life. We can expect Studio Ghibli’s adaptation of this novel to be a thoughtful and insightful film that will captivate audiences of all ages, much like their previous works.