Netflix Partners With Ex-Studio Ghibli Producer on Several Anime Film Projects
Netflix continues to build up its animation output as they’ve just partnered up with Japanese animation house Studio Ponoc, who will develop several anime films for the streaming service. Ponoc was founded in 2015 by former Studio Ghibli producer Yoshiaki Nishimura. The studio was founded with the goal of creating animation with a global appeal for children and families.
Under the deal, Netflix will become the exclusive streaming home of upcoming films from Ponoc, and the first film to be released is titled The Imaginary, and it will stream later this year following an exclusive theatrical run in Japan. You can see a poster for that below.
The Imaginary “portrays the depths of humanity and creativity through the eyes of young Amanda and her imaginary companion, Rudger. Their fantastical adventures launched from her attic, lead them to discover a magical world of creatures and places never before seen until a sinister force threatens to destroy their imaginary world and the friendship within it.”
The movie is described as “an unforgettable adventure of love, loss, and the healing power of imagination.” It was directed by Yoshiyuki Momose, a veteran animator who previously worked on Studio Ghibli classics such as Spirited Away and Porco Rosso.
Nishimura said in a statement: “Studio Ponoc is thrilled to bring our storytelling and innovative hand-drawn, hand-painted animated films to all audiences, and in particular to children and their families to enjoy together, around the world on Netflix. Netflix’s genuine commitment to supporting animation as a vital and valuable storytelling medium, and to growing high-quality and trailblazing animation, makes Netflix a truly excellent partner.”
I’ll be looking forward to watching these films that Ponoc produces.
Source: THR