Fans of the visually stunning anime film Poupelle of Chimney Town can rejoice as the sequel, officially titled Entotsu-chō no Poupelle ~Yakusoku no Tokeidai~ (Poupelle of Chimney Town: The Promised Clocktower), has unveiled its first teaser video and a new illustration, confirming a spring 2026 debut in Japanese theaters. The announcement has generated significant buzz, promising a new adventure in the smoky world crafted by creator Akihiro Nishino.
The Return to Chimney Town: What the Teaser Reveals
The recently released teaser video provides a glimpse into the eagerly anticipated continuation of the Poupelle of Chimney Town saga. While specific plot details remain largely under wraps, the promotional material, including a fresh illustration by original author Akihiro Nishino, hints at a compelling new narrative. Nishino’s artwork often features the protagonist, Lubicchi, gazing skyward, symbolizing the enduring theme of hope and discovery beyond the smoke-filled skies of Chimney Town. The teaser acts as a reaffirmation of the fantastical atmosphere and distinctive animation style that captivated audiences in the first film.
Key Creative Team Returns for the Sequel
The sequel sees the return of the acclaimed creative team behind the original 2020 film. Akihiro Nishino, the visionary author and illustrator of the Poupelle of Chimney Town picture book series, is once again taking on the crucial roles of screenplay writer and production supervisor for The Promised Clocktower. His continued involvement ensures that the sequel will maintain the thematic depth and unique storytelling that defined its predecessor.
Yusuke Hirota, who directed the first Poupelle of Chimney Town film, will also return to helm the sequel. Hirota’s direction, coupled with the animation expertise of Studio 4°C, known for its distinctive and high-quality productions, promises another visually spectacular cinematic experience. Studio 4°C was also responsible for the animation of the original film, which was notably their first full 3D/CG feature film project.
The Original Story and Its Impact
The first Poupelle of Chimney Town film, released in Japan in December 2020, introduced audiences to Lubicchi, a young chimney sweep living in a town perpetually shrouded in smoke, preventing him from seeing the stars his father spoke of. His life changes when he befriends Poupelle, a man made of garbage, and together they embark on a journey to discover the truth beyond their smoky world.
The film, based on Nishino’s 2016 picture book, quickly garnered critical acclaim for its breathtaking visuals, emotional storytelling, and inspiring message. It sold over 700,000 copies and even won the Japan Academy Film Prize for Animation of the Year. The original film was distributed internationally by Eleven Arts in North America and achieved significant box office success in Japan, grossing over $21 million. Its unique narrative, which encourages belief in dreams despite societal skepticism, resonated with diverse audiences worldwide.
The Promised Clocktower – A New Chapter
The sequel, Entotsu-chō no Poupelle ~Yakusoku no Tokeidai~, is based on Nishino’s Tick-Tock ~Yakusoku no Tokeidai~ picture book, which was published in 2019. While specific cast announcements from the teaser are yet to be detailed, the consistent creative team signals a strong continuation of the beloved franchise. Nishino himself has indicated that the sequel will explore themes that are “very different” from the first film, focusing on patience as opposed to the original’s theme of proactive pursuit. He described the plot as revolving around a town with a clock tower stopped at 11:59, creating a conflict between those who wish to protect it and those who seek to fix it.
With its release slated for spring 2026, Poupelle of Chimney Town: The Promised Clocktower is poised to deliver another heartwarming and visually spectacular cinematic experience, expanding the rich narrative of this unique animated world.
