GKIDS, the renowned distributor of animation, has acquired the North American rights to Studio 4°C’s latest anime film, ChaO. This acquisition promises to bring the whimsical and visually stunning film to audiences across North America. The film is slated to premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France, running from June 8 to June 14, 2025.
What is ChaO About?
ChaO is an original anime film set in a near-future world where humans and mermaids coexist. The story revolves around Stefan, a mild-mannered office worker at a shipbuilding company in Shanghai. Stefan’s ordinary life takes a turn when he is suddenly proposed to by ChaO, a princess from the mermaid kingdom. Without fully understanding the situation, Stefan finds himself living with ChaO, whose pure and honest love gradually breaks down his emotional barriers, leading to an unexpected and touching romance. However, their cultural differences and a tragic accident create strain on their relationship.
The film explores themes of love, cultural differences, and the challenges of coexistence in a vibrant and imaginative world.
Studio 4°C: A Legacy of Innovation
Studio 4°C, founded in 1986 by Eiko Tanaka and Kōji Morimoto, is known for its innovative and artistic approach to animation. The studio’s name is derived from the temperature at which water reaches its maximum density, symbolizing their pursuit of depth and substance in their work. Over the years, Studio 4°C has produced numerous critically acclaimed and visually stunning anime films, including:
- Memories (1995)
- Mind Game (2004)
- Tekkonkinkreet (2006)
- Children of the Sea (2019)
- Poupelle of Chimney Town (2020)
Their works often feature unique visual styles, imaginative storytelling, and a willingness to experiment with different animation techniques. ChaO continues this tradition, with Studio 4°C reportedly working on the film for seven years and creating over 100,000 hand-drawn drawings.
The Creative Team Behind ChaO
ChaO boasts a talented team of creators:
- Director: Yasuhiro Aoki (Batman: Gotham Knight, Kimagure Robot, Tweeny Witches)
- Character Designer and Chief Animation Director: Hirokazu Kojima (Deadman Wonderland, Coyote Ragtime Show)
- Art Director: Hiroshi Takiguchi (Weathering With You, The Garden of Words)
- Music Composer: Takatsugu Muramatsu (Mary and The Witch’s Flower, Phoenix: Eden17)
The film stars Ouji Suzuka (The Tunnel to Summer, the Exit of Goodbyes) as Stefan and Anna Yamada (Golden Kamuy) as ChaO.
GKIDS: Bringing Animation to North America
GKIDS is an American film distributor based in New York City, specializing in international animated films and television series. Founded in 2008, GKIDS has become a major force in the North American animation scene, bringing acclaimed films from around the world to a wider audience. The company is known for its focus on “sophisticated, indie” animation and has distributed works from renowned studios like Studio Ghibli.
GKIDS’s impressive catalog includes:
- Spirited Away
- My Neighbor Totoro
- The Secret of Kells
- Wolfwalkers
- Mirai
GKIDS has also earned numerous Academy Award nominations for Best Animated Feature, including a win for Hayao Miyazaki’s The Boy and the Heron in 2024.
A 100% Pure Love Story
The synopsis of ChaO hints at a “100% pure love story.” This suggests a focus on the emotional connection between Stefan and ChaO, despite their different backgrounds and the challenges they face. The film aims to explore themes of acceptance, understanding, and the power of love to overcome cultural barriers.
Release Information
ChaO is set to premiere in Japanese theaters on August 15, 2025. GKIDS will distribute the film in North America, but the release date is yet to be announced.
Toho’s Acquisition of GKIDS
In a significant move for the animation industry, Japanese entertainment giant Toho acquired GKIDS in 2024. This acquisition aims to strengthen Toho’s position in the global market and expand its reach in North America. GKIDS operates as a subsidiary of Toho International, while maintaining its existing leadership and operations.
What to Expect From ChaO
With its unique premise, stunning visuals, and talented creative team, ChaO promises to be a memorable cinematic experience. The film’s themes of love, cultural exchange, and environmental consciousness resonate with contemporary audiences.
As Studio 4°C continues to push the boundaries of animation, ChaO exemplifies their commitment to artistic innovation and storytelling. The film’s nomination for the Annecy International Animation Film Festival further highlights its potential to captivate audiences and critics alike.
The Annecy International Animation Film Festival
The Annecy International Animation Film Festival is a prestigious event that showcases the best in animated films from around the world. ChaO‘s premiere at the festival provides an opportunity for the film to gain international recognition and critical acclaim. The festival is known for its celebration of artistic expression, technical innovation, and storytelling excellence in animation. ChaO will be competing against other notable films, including The Last Blossom, as well as animated films from Europe, Canada, and China.
