New York Comic Con 2025 will host the highly anticipated U.S. premiere of the anime adaptation of Hiroshi Sakurazaka and Yoshitoshi ABe’s science fiction light novel, All You Need Is Kill, on October 10. The screening, presented by GKIDS, marks a significant event for fans of the source material, which famously inspired the Hollywood blockbuster Edge of Tomorrow starring Tom Cruise.
The premiere is part of New York Comic Con’s robust programming lineup, taking place from October 9-12, 2025, at the Javits Center. GKIDS, a prominent distributor of acclaimed animated films, confirmed the U.S. premiere status, noting it will be shown on October 10 from 6:30 PM to 8:10 PM.
Bringing a Sci-Fi Classic Back to the Screen
The All You Need Is Kill anime is a collaboration between Warner Bros. Japan and STUDIO4°C. The original light novel by Hiroshi Sakurazaka, published in 2004, is celebrated for its groundbreaking time-loop concept and powerful narrative of personal growth, making a significant impact on the sci-fi genre. The story centers on an alien plant invasion where the protagonist, Rita, finds herself caught in an endless time loop after dying, only to wake up and relive the same events. Her journey intertwines with Keiji, a young man trapped in the identical cycle, as they fight to escape the loop and find meaning amidst the chaos.
This new anime feature promises a fresh perspective on the beloved story. Directed by Kenichiro Akimoto, the project aims to delve into Rita’s inner journey, exploring her loneliness, struggles, and personal growth in detail. Akimoto, who made his directorial debut with 2021’s Fortune Favors Lady Nikuko, brings his experience as an art director on films like Poupelle of Chimney Town and Children of the Sea to this ambitious adaptation.
GKIDS’ Strategic Acquisition and Prior Screenings
GKIDS has secured the rights to the All You Need Is Kill anime in multiple territories, including North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. Following its U.S. premiere, the company plans to screen the film in theaters, broadening its accessibility to a wider audience.
Before its debut in New York, the film made its international premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France in June. It then had its North American premiere at the 29th annual Fantasia International Film Festival, held from July 16 to August 3 in Montreal. The New York Comic Con screening, however, marks its first official showing within the United States.
New York Comic Con: A Hub for Pop Culture and Anime
New York Comic Con remains a premier event for pop culture enthusiasts, attracting legions of fans to New York City for four days of comic book, film, and anime celebrations. The convention offers exclusive merchandise, panels, screenings, and opportunities to meet creators and guests.
The inclusion of the All You Need Is Kill U.S. premiere highlights the convention’s continued importance as a platform for major anime announcements and debuts. Alongside this, GKIDS is also set to premiere Jujutsu Kaisen content at NYCC 2025, further cementing the event’s status as a must-attend for anime fans.