The upcoming French-Japanese co-production anime film, “A New Dawn” (Japanese title: Hanarokusho ga Akeru Hi ni, or “On the day when Paris Green dawns”), has unveiled a new teaser trailer and visual, confirming its Japanese theatrical release in 2026. Directed by acclaimed Japanese painter Yoshitoshi Shinomiya, the film was initially slated for a 2025 release but has since been postponed.
The film, a collaboration between French studio Miyu Productions and Japanese partners, offers a poignant narrative inspired by the aftermath of the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.
Delving into the Narrative of “A New Dawn”
“A New Dawn” tells the story of three young individuals connected to the Obinata Fireworks Shop. The factory faces imminent confiscation, and Keitaro Obinata, the second son, has spent six years in the closed-down factory, striving to create a fantastical fireworks display in his missing father’s stead. He is joined by Kaoru Shikimori, a childhood friend who left her hometown for Tokyo to pursue her future. The plot centers on these characters as they confront extreme weather, disasters, and environmental challenges while striving to forge their own identities.
Creative Minds Behind the Film
Yoshitoshi Shinomiya’s Directorial Debut
“A New Dawn” marks the feature film directorial debut of Yoshitoshi Shinomiya, who is also credited with the original concept and screenplay. Shinomiya is widely recognized for his work as a Japanese-style painter and his significant contributions to celebrated anime films, including Makoto Shinkai’s “The Garden of Words” (as poster illustrator) and “Your Name” (as recollection scene key animator and unit director). He also contributed as a watercolor painter to Sunao Katabuchi’s “In This Corner of the World.”
Key Cast and Production Team
The film features Riku Hagiwara voicing Keitaro Obinata and Kotone Furukawa as Kaoru Shikimori. This project marks the first time both young actors, primarily known for their live-action work, are lending their voices to anime characters.
The production team also includes Utsushita (Minamigata Laboratory) as the character designer, Shohei Hamaguchi as the animation director, Ryoko Majima (who co-art directed “Your Name”) as the art director, and Shuta Hasunuma composing the soundtrack. Asmik Ace, Studio Outrigger, and Miyu Productions are credited for the animation production.
International Recognition and Anticipation
Even before its theatrical release, “A New Dawn” garnered international attention. It was selected as one of five films in various stages of production worldwide for the “Animation Day” Annecy Animation Showcase at the 77th Cannes International Film Festival in May 2024. This early recognition highlights the anticipation surrounding Shinomiya’s unique vision and the film’s compelling themes.
While the exact release date within 2026 has not been specified, the teaser offers a glimpse into the film’s vibrant visuals and emotional depth, setting the stage for a compelling cinematic experience. The delay to 2026 was announced in May 2025, with an updated trailer reflecting the new timeline.
