TOKYO – The highly anticipated anime feature film “ChaO,” from acclaimed Studio 4°C, is set to captivate audiences worldwide, with an announcement on its opening day in Japan revealing screenings in 16 countries and regions globally. While the specific territories were not immediately disclosed, this widespread distribution underscores the film’s significant international appeal.
Global Reach for a Unique Love Story
“ChaO,” which premiered in Japanese theaters on August 15, 2025, has already garnered international attention through its participation in prestigious film festivals. The romantic comedy, directed by Yasuhiro Aoki, explores a future society where humans and mermaids coexist, weaving a “fish out of water” narrative centered on an unexpected romance.
The film’s international journey began with its world premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France, where it notably won the Jury Prize, marking the first time in approximately eight years a Japanese film secured this award. Following its success at Annecy, “ChaO” was screened at the JAPAN CUTS: Festival of New Japanese Film in New York on its opening night and also featured at the 29th annual Fantasia International Film Festival in Montreal, Canada. It is also slated to compete for the Grand Prize for Feature Animation at the Ottawa International Animation Festival from September 24-28.
A Tale of Two Worlds
The narrative of “ChaO” follows Stefan, a mild-mannered office worker at a shipbuilding company in a near-future Shanghai where humans and merpeople live side-by-side. His life takes an extraordinary turn when he is suddenly proposed to by ChaO, a princess from the mermaid kingdom. The film delves into their struggles with cultural differences as they navigate their burgeoning relationship, with an underlying theme of understanding diverse cultures in a world rife with conflicts. Stefan is also depicted as developing an environmentally friendly propeller called “Air Jet” to promote peace between the two races.
Key Production and Voice Talent
“ChaO” is produced by Studio 4°C, known for innovative anime films such as “Poupelle of Chimney Town” and “Children of the Sea.” The studio reportedly worked on the film for seven years, crafting over 100,000 hand-drawn animation frames.
The film’s director, Yasuhiro Aoki, is recognized for his work on “Psycho-Pass – The Movie” character design and “Tweeny Witches.” Hirokazu Kojima serves as both character designer and chief animation director, while Hiroshi Takiguchi (known for “Weathering With You”) is the art director. The music is composed by Takatsugu Muramatsu.
The main cast includes Ōji Suzuka as Stefan and Anna Yamada as the titular mermaid princess, ChaO. Other notable voice actors include Yūichirō Umehara, Ryōta Yamasato, Kavka Shishido, Cookie!, Kenta Miyake, Shunsei Ōta, and Anna Tsuchiya. Japanese singer Kumi Kōda performs the film’s theme song, “ChaO!”
Distribution and Future Prospects
Toei Company is responsible for the domestic distribution of “ChaO” in Japan. For international audiences, GKIDS has secured the North American distribution rights, ensuring the film’s release in the United States and Canada. Additionally, Eurozoom handles French distribution, and Best Friend Forever is managing sales for the film in territories outside of Asia, France, North America, Latin America, and the UK. The confirmation of screenings in 16 countries and regions signifies a strong global rollout for this eagerly awaited anime film.
