Mermaid Romantic Comedy Debuts at Annecy International Film Festival

Exciting News from GKIDS

GKIDS announced on Tuesday that they have acquired the North American rights to the latest anime feature from Studio 4°C, titled ChaO. The film is set to premiere at the prestigious Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France, running from June 8 to June 14.

First Look: ChaO

ChaO screenshot Image via x.com

About the Film

According to GKIDS, ChaO is a wild, romantic comedy based on a true “fish out of water” story. It takes place in a futuristic world where humans and mermaids coexist. The story follows Stephan, a mild-mannered office worker at a shipbuilding company, whose life suddenly changes when he’s proposed to by ChaO, a mermaid princess.

Despite the chaos, Stephan finds himself living with the unpredictable and sincere ChaO. As her love begins to break down his emotional barriers, an unexpected and touching romance unfolds.

Cast and Crew

Ōji Suzuka (known for Kimi ni Todoke and The Tunnel to Summer, the Exit of Goodbyes) voices Stephan.
Anna Yamada (from Golden Kamuy) plays ChaO.
The film is directed by Yasuhiro Aoki, with character design and animation direction by Hirokazu Kojima.
Hiroshi Takiguchi handles art direction.
The soundtrack will be composed by Takatsugi Muramatsu.
Distribution will be handled by Toei.

Release Details

The film is scheduled to hit Japanese theaters on August 15.

Behind the Scenes

It’s revealed that Studio 4°C has been secretly working on ChaO for the past seven years. Producer Eiko Tanaka shared during the January press conference that the movie is hand-drawn and features over 100,000 drawings.

Stay Tuned

For more updates, follow GKIDS on X/Twitter.

This exciting project promises a unique blend of romance, humor, and stunning animation. Keep an eye out for its upcoming debut at Annecy and later release in Japan!

GKIDS Secures North American Release for Studio 4°C’s New ChaO Anime Film