The official channels for the popular Sumikko Gurashi franchise have released a new video for its upcoming fourth anime film, Eiga Sumikko Gurashi: Sora no Ōkoku to Futari no Ko (Sumikko Gurashi The Movie: The Sky Kingdom and the Two Children), offering fans a closer look at the film’s two original new characters. The highly anticipated movie is slated to open in Japanese theaters on October 31, 2025.
Introducing the New Faces: Ōji and “???”
The latest promotional material for the fourth Sumikko Gurashi film prominently features two brand-new characters central to its narrative: “Ōji” (Prince) and another enigmatic figure currently identified only as “???”. The Prince hails from the “Sky Kingdom,” an ethereal realm facing a severe water shortage, which sets the stage for the Sumikkos’ latest adventure.
The synopsis reveals that after a period of continuous rain in the Sumikko’s town, a mysterious object falls from the sky. The Sumikkos discover it to be the Prince, prompting them to journey above the clouds to help save his kingdom from crisis. This encounter promises to add fresh dynamics and heartwarming interactions to the beloved cast of characters.
The Sky Kingdom and Two Children: An Overview
The fourth installment, officially titled Eiga Sumikko Gurashi: Sora no Ōkoku to Futari no Ko, continues the tradition of heartwarming storytelling that has captivated audiences since the franchise’s inception in 2012.
Key Details and Production Team
Fanworks, the animation studio behind the previous Sumikko Gurashi films, returns for this new production. Naomi Iwata is directing the film, with Takashi Sumita, known for his work on the first and third films, penning the script. Kaori Hino also reprises her role as art director. The familiar gentle voices of Yoshihiko Inohara and Manami Honjō will once again serve as the narrators, guiding viewers through the Sumikkos’ enchanting journey.
Theme Song and Distribution
Adding to the film’s charm, the theme song, titled “Kimi no Kasa” (Your Umbrella), is performed by popular artist Kaela Kimura. Asmik Ace, Inc. is handling the distribution of the film, ensuring its reach to a wide audience across Japan.
The Enduring Appeal of Sumikko Gurashi Films
The Sumikko Gurashi film series has a strong track record of success, with previous installments garnering significant box office achievements and critical acclaim. The first film, Sumikkogurashi – Good to be in the corner, released in 2019, sold over 1.22 million tickets and earned approximately 1.4 billion yen, even winning the Best Animation of the Year award at the 29th Annual Japan Movie Critics Awards. Subsequent films, Eiga Sumikko Gurashi: Aoi Tsukiyo no Mahō no Ko (The Magical Child of the Blue Moonlit Night) in 2021 and Eiga Sumikko Gurashi: Tsugihagi Kōjō no Fushigi na Ko (The Mysterious Child of the Makeshift Factory) in 2023, continued this success, with the franchise accumulating over three million total attendees across its theatrical releases.
Fans eagerly await the October 31 premiere, ready to join Shirokuma, Penguin?, Tonkatsu, Neko, Tokage, and their new companions on another heartwarming and visually delightful adventure above the clouds.
