TOHO has begun streaming the first seven minutes and eight seconds of Mamoru Hosoda and Studio Chizu’s latest anime feature, Scarlet (Japanese title: Hateshinaki Scarlet), on YouTube starting Wednesday. This release offers international audiences an early glimpse into the highly anticipated film, which premiered in Japan on November 21 and is slated for a North American release in early 2026.
Early Look at “Scarlet” Now Available
The decision by TOHO to stream the opening sequence provides a significant opportunity for fans worldwide to experience the initial moments of Hosoda’s newest work. The segment, available on YouTube, allows viewers to delve into the film’s distinctive animation style and narrative tone ahead of its wider international release.
Japanese Theatrical Debut and Box Office Performance
Scarlet made its theatrical debut in Japan on November 21, opening in both standard cinemas and IMAX screens. The film quickly made an impact, ranking at number three during its opening weekend. Its strong start signals considerable interest from Japanese audiences in Hosoda’s latest cinematic endeavor.
A Modern Take on a Classic Tragedy
Inspired by William Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Scarlet presents a dark fantasy action narrative. The story centers on a medieval princess named Scarlet who embarks on a dangerous quest for vengeance after her father, the king, is murdered. After a failed attempt at revenge leaves her fatally injured, Scarlet awakens in a surreal afterlife inhabited by souls from across time and space. Here, she encounters Hijiri, a paramedic from modern-day Tokyo, and together they navigate this strange dimension as Scarlet seeks to confront her father’s killer. Hosoda has expressed a desire for this film to be a departure from his previous works, aiming for a unique visual and narrative style.
International Recognition and Upcoming Release
Prior to its general release, Scarlet had its premiere out of competition at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on September 4, 2025, garnering early international attention. While it has already captivated audiences in Japan, the film is set to reach North American cinemas in early 2026, with an awards-qualifying run also planned for the current year. Sony Pictures Classics will handle the North American distribution, with plans for an exclusive IMAX release on February 6, 2026. This staggered release strategy aims to build anticipation and position the film for critical acclaim globally.
From Studio Chizu and Mamoru Hosoda
Scarlet is a production of Studio Chizu, the animation studio co-founded by Mamoru Hosoda. Hosoda is widely celebrated for his critically acclaimed films, including Summer Wars, Wolf Children, The Boy and the Beast, Mirai, and Belle, with Mirai earning an Academy Award nomination. His consistent track record of delivering original and emotionally resonant animated features has established him as a prominent figure in the anime industry.
