Key Insights
- *Ghost Cat Anzu* is an animated film set for a 2024 release, inspired by a manga and acclaimed for its innovative animation techniques.
- While the film has garnered positive feedback, it faced some criticism regarding its pacing and has received nominations for awards like the Sitges Film Festival.
- Audiences in North America will be able to see *Ghost Cat Anzu* in theaters on November 15, 2024, following a successful launch in Japan.
*Ghost Cat Anzu*, an animated feature slated for 2024, is a collaboration between Japan and France. This film is adapted from the manga created by Takashi Imashiro, which was initially published between 2006 and 2007. The film debuted in Japan in July, having first premiered at Cannes, France. A newly released trailer featuring English subtitles has been unveiled in anticipation of its upcoming North American premiere.
With its distinctive storytelling and artistic approach, *Ghost Cat Anzu* has captured significant attention and has been nominated for various awards. Despite some critiques concerning narrative pacing, it has resonated well with audiences, contributing to its scheduled English theatrical release. This latest trailer was uploaded to GKIDS Films’ official YouTube channel recently.
What is *Ghost Cat Anzu*?
A French-Japanese Anime Film
*Ghost Cat Anzu* is adapted from the manga authored by Takashi Imashiro. This manga, originally consisting of a single volume, has experienced a revival nearly ten years later, as it transitions to an anime movie co-produced by Shin-Ei Animation and Miyu Productions. As described on the official GKIDS website, the plot follows:
The clever young girl Karin finds herself left behind by her father in the picturesque countryside of Japan. Residing at a temple with her grandfather, she encounters Anzu, a hefty “ghost cat” known for his lazy demeanor and assigned to watch over her. Initially suspicious of Anzu, Karin disrupts his tasks for the local villagers and forms friendships with the quirky forest spirits nearby. In a bid to gain her trust, Anzu inadvertently strikes an ill-fated deal with a devilish entity, leading to chaotic consequences.
Co-directed by the talented Yoko Kuno, marking her debut in feature direction, alongside acclaimed filmmaker Nobuhiro Yamashita of *Linda Linda Linda* fame, *Ghost Cat Anzu* combines the efforts of Shin-Ei Animation and Miyu Productions, featuring music from the legendary Keiichi Suzuki, known for his work on *EarthBound*. The film presents an amusing misadventure in rural Japan.
The unique animation style of *Ghost Cat Anzu* has been a focal point of discussions. The creators began with live-action footage, which was meticulously transformed into animated sequences through rotoscoping—a technique involving tracing over recorded movements frame by frame to achieve an organic animation feel. Critics have praised this innovative approach, despite noting some pacing challenges in the narrative.
Upcoming North American Release of *Ghost Cat Anzu*
Arriving in Theaters This November
*Ghost Cat Anzu* is set to be released in North America through GKID Films on November 15th, 2024. The film was first showcased at the Cannes 2024 Director’s Fortnight program on May 21st and premiered in Japanese theaters on July 19th, 2024. Tickets for the North American release can now be purchased on the official GKIDS website. The English-subtitled trailer has already amassed over 3,000 views within its first 24 hours.
Recently, *Ghost Cat Anzu* received nominations for Best Feature Film and Best Animated Feature Film at the Sitges Film Festival this month, as well as a nomination for the Cristal Award for Best Feature Film at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in June. Although it did not take home any awards, the nominations signify a strong reception. Additionally, creator Takashi Imashiro has resumed publishing a sequel to the manga series, coinciding with the film’s release in Japan, signaling an exciting resurgence for *Ghost Cat Anzu*.
*Ghost Cat Anzu* will debut in North American theaters on November 15th, 2024.
Sources: Official Website, Deadline, Comic Natalie
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