TOKYO – Studio 4°C’s highly anticipated anime feature film, “ChaO,” is set to expand its global reach, with plans announced for screenings in 16 countries and regions worldwide. The news broke during an opening day event for the film in Japan on Friday, though the full list of territories has yet to be officially disclosed.
“ChaO,” a romantic comedy set in a futuristic world where humans and mermaids coexist, has already garnered significant international attention, including winning a Jury Award at the prestigious Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France.
Global Festival Circuit Paves the Way
Before its broader international release, “ChaO” has already made its mark on the global film festival circuit, indicating strong critical reception and distribution interest. The film held its world premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, which ran from June 8 to June 14, 2025, in France.
Following its successful debut, “ChaO” was featured at the JAPAN CUTS: Festival of New Japanese Film, screening on its opening night in New York on July 10, 2025. It also appeared at the 29th annual Fantasia International Film Festival in Montreal, Canada, which took place from July 16 through August 3, 2025. Looking ahead, the film is slated to compete for the Grand Prize for Feature Animation at the Ottawa International Animation Festival, scheduled from September 24-28, 2025. Additionally, the Sitges International Fantastic Film Festival in Sitges, Spain, will include “ChaO” in its lineup, running from October 9-19, 2025.
A Vision from Studio 4°C
Produced by the renowned Studio 4°C, known for works such as Mind Game and Tekkonkinkreet, “ChaO” is directed by veteran animator Yasuhiro Aoki. The film features character designs and serves as chief animation director by Hirokazu Kojima, with Hiroshi Takiguchi as the art director. Takatsugu Muramatsu composed the music, and the theme song, “ChaO!”, is performed by Kumi Koda.
The narrative of “ChaO” centers on Stephan, a mild-mannered office worker whose life takes an unexpected turn when he receives a sudden marriage proposal from Chao, a princess from the mermaid kingdom. Their ensuing relationship navigates cultural differences and deepens into an “unexpected and touching romance.”
Toei Company is handling the distribution of the film in Japan, where it officially opened in theaters on August 15, 2025. GKIDS has secured the distribution rights for North America, further solidifying the film’s international presence.
