Studio Ghibli Classic KIKI'S DELIVERY SERVICE Soars Into IMAX for First Time; Enjoy The Trailer!
There’s something magical about seeing a Studio Ghibli classic back on the big screen, and this March, fans are getting something special. GKIDS and IMAX have unveiled a stunning new trailer and poster for the 4K restoration of Kiki's Delivery Service, and it’s headed to IMAX screens for the very first time.
Directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, Kiki's Delivery Service was the fourth film produced by Studio Ghibli after the studio launched in 1986.
It followed My Neighbor Totoro (1988) and arrived before Porco Rosso (1992). Originally released in Japan in July 1989, the film made its way to U.S. theaters in December 1990 and has since grown into one of the most cherished animated films ever made.
Now, GKIDS continues its partnership bringing Ghibli’s catalog to theaters in beautifully restored 4K presentations, and this one feels extra special.
The IMAX release begins March 13th, 2026, exclusively in the U.S. and Canada, with tickets already on sale. Fans will have the option to watch the original Japanese version with subtitles or the English dub from its 1990 U.S. release.
For those who somehow haven’t experienced it yet, Kiki's Delivery Service tells the story of a young witch setting out on her own for the first time. As the official synopsis reminds us:
“It is a tradition for all young witches to leave their families on the night of a full moon and fly off into the wide world to learn their craft.
“When that night comes for Kiki, she embarks on her new journey with her sarcastic black cat, Jiji, landing the next morning in a seaside town, where her unique skills make her an instant sensation. Don’t miss this delightfully imaginative and timeless story of a young girl finding her way in the world.”
Kiki’s journey is simple on the surface. She settles into a charming seaside town and launches a flying delivery service. But what unfolds is a heartfelt coming-of-age story about independence, responsibility, self-doubt, and finding your place in the world.
The new IMAX poster is based on original concept art from celebrated Studio Ghibli veteran Yoshifumi Kondo, the director of Whisper of the Heart. It captures that breezy coastal energy that defines so much of the film’s personality and looks fantastic in this updated format.
The film is based on the novel by Eiko Kadono and produced by Miyazaki himself, with unforgettable music composed by Joe Hisaishi.
Seeing Kiki's Delivery Service on a massive screen with a crystal-clear 4K restoration is going to hit differently. The sweeping skies, the seaside town, the tiny details in the animation, and those emotional character beats are all going to feel bigger and more immersive than ever.
Whether you grew up with this film or you’re introducing it to someone for the first time, this IMAX run feels like the perfect excuse to revisit one of Miyazaki’s most heartfelt stories.