Code Geass' Goro Taniguchi Directs Stunning Parisian Film 'Étoile' – A Must-See Masterpiece
Discover the heartfelt story of two girls chasing their dreams in art and ballet, beautifully brought to life by Reiko Yoshida’s inspiring storytelling.

New Original Anime Film: Paris ni Saku Étoile
Directed by Gorō Taniguchi, known for Code Geass and One Piece Film Red, this upcoming film is set to premiere on March 13, 2026. The movie is produced by Arvo Animation and promises a heartfelt story inspired by the early 20th century.
First collaboration for character design:
- Katsuya Kondō, renowned for his work on Ghibli classics like Kiki's Delivery Service and Ponyo, joins forces with Taniguchi to craft the original character designs.
Starring:
- Ami Tōma, known for Lonely Castle in the Mirror and Chihayafuru -Meguri-, plays the character Fujiko.
The tagline reads: "I want to blossom, in this city."
A Story of Dreams and Friendship
The film follows two Japanese girls, Fujiko and Chizuru, who are passionate about their art and ballet during the challenging early 1900s. They meet by chance in Yokohama, and fate brings them together again in Paris. Together, they strive to chase their étoile (star) dreams amidst adversity.
Creative Team:
- Script: Reiko Yoshida (Violet Evergarden, Maria Watches Over Us)
- Animation adaptation: Yū Yamashita (Bunny Drop, Love Me, Love Me Not)
- Music: Takayuki Hattori (Gundam: The Origin, Martian Successor Nadesico)
Additional Staff:
- Researcher: Seiichi Shirato
- Art Director: Yūji Kaneko
- Color Key Artist: Akiko Shibata
- Cinematography: Tsunetaka Ema
- Character Direction: Yuriko Chiba
- 3D CG Director: Hisayasu Kamiya
- Editing: Kiyoshi Hirose
- Prop Design: Tomomi Ozaki
- Mechanical Design: Fumihiro Katagai
- Sound Director: Kazuhiro Wakabayashi
- Distribution: Shochiku
This film promises a touching story of perseverance, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams set against the beautiful backdrop of Paris.
Source: Comic Natalie