Renowned anime director Goro Taniguchi, best known for his work on the hit series Code Geass and One Piece Film: Red, is set to direct an original anime film titled Paris ni Saku Étoile (L’étoile de Paris en fleur or Étoile Blossoming in Paris). The film, produced by Arvo Animation, is slated for a March 2026 premiere in Japan.
A Parisian Tale of Dreams and Determination
Paris ni Saku Étoile is an original anime film that transports viewers to early 20th-century Paris, following the interwoven paths of two young Japanese women. The story centers on Fujiko Tsugita, an aspiring painter, and Chizuru, who is drawn into the world of ballet. Their initial chance encounter in Yokohama leads them to reunite in the vibrant artistic hub of Paris, where they diligently pursue their respective dreams.
The film’s tagline, “I want to blossom, in this city,” encapsulates the spirit of the protagonists as they strive for their “étoile” (stars) amidst the challenges of the era.
Esteemed Creative Team Assembles for ‘Étoile’
Taniguchi, celebrated for his versatile directorial prowess, is joined by a highly regarded creative team for this project. The screenplay is penned by Reiko Yoshida, known for her contributions to Violet Evergarden and A Silent Voice.
A significant collaboration for the film is with Katsuya Kondō, a veteran character designer frequently associated with Studio Ghibli films such, as Kiki’s Delivery Service and Ponyo. Kondō is responsible for the original character designs, with Yu Yamashita adapting them for animation. The voice of Fujiko Tsugita will be provided by Ami Tōma, known for her role in Lonely Castle in the Mirror. Further enhancing the film’s atmosphere, Takayuki Hattori, whose credits include Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin, is composing the music.
Independent Production with a Long History
Paris ni Saku Étoile was developed as an independent film, with production continuing throughout the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan. The project has been in the works for a considerable period, with character designer Katsuya Kondō initially approached by Arvo Animation’s representative director, Karki Rajeev, for the film in 2018. Taniguchi personally selected Ami Tōma for the role of Fujiko, seeking a character voice that was both pure and charming.
Other key staff members contributing to the film include Seiichi Shirato as researcher, Yūji Kaneko as art director, Akiko Shibata as color key artist, and Tsunetaka Ema as compositing director of photography. Shochiku will handle the film’s distribution in Japan.
