Overview of Studio 4°C’s Upcoming Anime Film
- Studio 4°C is set to release a new anime film titled ChaO, expected to premiere in Japan during the Summer of 2025.
- This ambitious project has been seven years in the making, featuring over 100,000 meticulously hand-drawn frames.
- Directed by Yasuhiro Aoki, the storyline centers on a mermaid princess who unexpectedly proposes to an office worker.
Announced during Toei Animation’s lineup press conference for 2025-2026, ChaO represents a significant endeavor by Studio 4°C, known for its artistic innovation and commitment to quality.
Established in 1986, Studio 4°C has gained prominence in the anime sector, particularly since the early 2000s, when they enhanced their production scale. Their portfolio includes notable projects such as select episodes from The Animatrix (2003) and the acclaimed Berserk: The Golden Age Arc trilogy.
The upcoming film ChaO is confirmed for a Summer 2025 release in Japan. Given Toei’s distribution role, there is a strong likelihood the film will also target international audiences, potentially via theatrical releases or streaming platforms.
While international distribution details remain under wraps, Studio 4°C has made efforts to engage global audiences by sharing updates in English, indicating their intent to broaden the film’s reach:
We are pleased to announce a new feature film for 2025 SUMMER! "ChaO” Director: Yasuhiro Aoki Character Design / Animation Director\uff1aHirokazu Kojima Art Director\uff1aHiroshi Takiguchi Distributor in Japan: TOEI Synopsis: pic.twitter.com/0OEaN9SEIL — STUDIO4\u2103\u306e\uff23\u5b50 (C-ko) (@STUDIO4C) January 16, 2025
As reported by Oricon, the film’s production journey has spanned seven years, involving an impressive array of hand-drawn artwork, totaling over 100,000 drawings.
Directed By Industry Veteran Yasuhiro Aoki
Yasuhiro Aoki helms the direction of ChaO. He previously served as the assistant animation director for The Last: Naruto the Movie, which charts the events leading to Naruto and Hinata’s wedding—a film celebrated for its canonicity among fans. Aoki’s directorial resume also includes works such as Senjutsu Choukoukaku Orion, Honey Tokyo, and an episode of Batman: Gotham City.
Contributing to the visual artistry, Hirokazu Kojima (known for Deadman Wonderland) serves as the character designer and chief animation director. The role of the head writer remains undisclosed, though it’s possible that Aoki may also be tasked with scriptwriting.
Exploring ChaO’s Unique Mermaid Tale
Set in a future where mermaids coexist with humans, the narrative of ChaO introduces us to Chao, a mermaid princess, who unexpectedly proposes to an office worker named Stephen.
Details about international distribution for the film have yet to be confirmed, keeping fans eagerly anticipating more information.
For further insights, visit sources such as MyAnimeList and Anime News Network.
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