Sony Pictures Classics has announced that the wide North American theatrical release of acclaimed filmmaker Mamoru Hosoda’s new anime film, “Scarlet,” will be postponed to early 2026. The film was originally slated for a wide release on December 12, 2025. Despite the delay for general audiences, “Scarlet” is still scheduled for a limited awards-qualifying run in North America this year, and will premiere at several prestigious film festivals.
Strategic Shift for Awards Season
The decision to move the wide release is seen as a strategic play to bolster the film’s chances during the upcoming awards season. Sony Pictures Classics, known for its focus on independent and critically acclaimed films, will handle the North American distribution. This approach mirrors successful strategies employed by other distributors for high-profile animated features, aiming to leverage potential nominations and critical buzz for a stronger box office performance in 2026.
“Scarlet” will have its world premiere at the Venice International Film Festival, with five screenings scheduled for September 4-5. Following this, it will have its North American premiere as a Special Presentation at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) with four screenings from September 10-12. The film is also set to be screened twice at the New York Film Festival on October 7 and 8. These festival appearances will allow the film to qualify for various awards, including the Oscars.
Delving into the World of “Scarlet”
Mamoru Hosoda, an Academy Award-nominated filmmaker known for “Mirai,” “Belle,” “Wolf Children,” and “The Girl Who Leapt Through Time,” is both directing and writing the screenplay for “Scarlet.” The film is an original dark fantasy adventure from Hosoda’s Studio Chizu, co-produced with Sony Pictures and Nippon TV.
A Princess’s Perilous Quest
The narrative centers on Scarlet, a medieval-era sword-fighting princess on a dangerous mission to avenge her father’s death. After her initial attempt at vengeance fails, she finds herself gravely injured and trapped in an “Otherworld” that exists between life and death, described as “The Land of the Dead.” In this surreal realm, she encounters an idealistic young man from the present day who helps her heal and encourages her to envision a future free from bitterness and rage. The central conflict arises when Scarlet confronts her father’s killer again, forcing her to choose between perpetuating a cycle of hatred and embracing a new path.
Hosoda himself has commented on the film’s timely message, stating, “As we witness heartbreaking conflicts around the world, I believe that finding love and choosing to live together in unity is what will lead us towards something better. That’s why I want to share this new film with the world — now more than ever.”
A Distinct Animation Style
“Scarlet” promises a unique visual experience, with Hosoda reportedly stating that the animation approach is “neither 2D nor a Hollywood-style CG animation,” aiming for a completely new look. This innovative style is a hallmark of Studio Chizu’s work, which has consistently pushed the boundaries of animated storytelling. The film is also noted for its blend of action and romance elements, offering a different feel compared to Hosoda’s previous works.
The Visionary Behind the Film
Mamoru Hosoda has carved a significant niche in the world of anime with his distinctive storytelling and visually striking films. His works often explore themes of family, identity, and the intersection of the digital and real worlds.
Notable Works by Mamoru Hosoda
- The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (2006): A critically acclaimed film about a teenage girl who gains the ability to time travel.
- Summer Wars (2009): An action-packed story combining virtual reality and family drama.
- Wolf Children (2012): A poignant tale of a mother raising two half-human, half-wolf children.
- The Boy and the Beast (2015): An adventure about a lonely boy who becomes the disciple of a beast.
- Mirai (2018): An Academy Award-nominated film about a young boy’s journey through time to understand his family.
- Belle (2021): A modern re-telling of “Beauty and the Beast” set in a virtual world.
“Scarlet” (known in Japan as Hateshi naki Scarlet, literally “Scarlet Without Limits”) marks Hosoda’s first feature film since 2021’s “Belle.” The film’s Japanese release date is set for November 21, 2025. Sony Pictures Releasing International will handle the film’s worldwide distribution outside of North America.
