GKIDS and Shout! Studios are set to release “The Colors Within” (Kimi no Iro), the latest anime feature film by Science SARU and director Naoko Yamada, on Blu-ray Disc on May 27 and on digital platforms on April 1. Fans can look forward to bonus features, including interviews and behind-the-scenes footage.
‘The Colors Within’ Synopsis: A Coming-of-Age Story Told Through Color and Music
“The Colors Within” tells the story of Totsuko Higurashi, a high school student with a unique ability: she perceives the emotions of others as colors.
- Totsuko’s Unique Vision: Totsuko sees the world through a vibrant lens, where people’s emotions manifest as distinct colors.
- The Allure of Blue: She is particularly drawn to Kimi Sakunaga’s captivating blue color, a classmate who mysteriously leaves school to work at a used bookstore.
- An Unlikely Band: Totsuko’s quest to reconnect with Kimi leads her to Rui Kagehira, a quiet music enthusiast. Together, the three form a band, finding solace and connection through music in an abandoned church on a remote island.
- Themes of Self-Discovery: As they navigate the challenges of adolescence, Totsuko, Kimi, and Rui confront their personal struggles, using music as an outlet for self-expression and acceptance.
- The film explores themes of teen angst and spirituality.
Blu-ray and Digital Release Details
Mark your calendars for the following release dates:
- Digital Release: April 1, on platforms like Amazon, Apple, Google, Fandango, Microsoft, and iNDEMAND.
- Blu-ray Release: May 27, available as a standard set and a Limited Edition SteelBook.
The Blu-ray release promises bonus content, including:
- Interviews with director Naoko Yamada.
- Interviews with composer kensuke ushio.
- Interviews with cast members.
- Behind-the-scenes footage.
The Creative Team Behind ‘The Colors Within’
“The Colors Within” boasts a talented creative team:
- Director: Naoko Yamada (A Silent Voice, Liz and the Blue Bird, The Heike Story).
- Animation Studio: Science SARU (Scott Pilgrim Takes Off, Inu-Oh, The Heike Story).
- Planner and Producer: Story Inc. (Your Name, Weathering With You, Suzume).
- Screenwriter: Reiko Yoshida (K-ON!, Girls und Panzer, Ride Your Wave, Violet Evergarden).
- Music Composer: kensuke ushio (Space Dandy, A Silent Voice, Liz and the Blue Bird, Chainsaw Man).
- Original Character Designer: Daisuke Richard.
- Character Designer and Animation Director: Takashi Kojima.
- Theme Song: “in the pocket” performed by Mr. Children.
Critical Reception and Accolades
“The Colors Within” has garnered attention and praise since its premiere:
- North American Premiere: The film premiered at the Animation Is Film festival in Los Angeles on October 18, 2024.
- Audience Award: It won the Audience Award at the Animation Is Film festival.
- Critical Acclaim: Reviewers have lauded the film’s visual representation of emotions as colors, its exploration of youth and friendship, and its charming and heartwarming narrative.
Some critics noted the film’s slower pace and unconventional structure, but praised its emotional depth and visual artistry.
Where to Watch
“The Colors Within” will be available on various platforms:
- Digital Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Movies, Fandango At Home, Microsoft, and iNDEMAND (April 1).
- Blu-ray: Standard set and Limited Edition SteelBook (May 27).
