GKIDS Films Announce Lonely Castle In The Mirror.
GKIDS Films can always be relied upon to bring the best in animation from around the world to the big screen across the USA. This year marks the distributor's 15th anniversary. And they're marking it by announcing even more animation.
The company has announced that they have acquired the rights to anime feature Lonely Castle In The Mirror. The film is directed by acclaimed filmmaker Keiichi Hara (Miss Hokusai, The Wonderland), with animation by A-1 Pictures. It's adapted from the novel of the same name by Mizuki Tsujimura.
The film had its international premiere as part of the Rotterdam International Film Festival- the first time a Japanese animated feature was selected for the festival. Its US premiere was held at the New York International Children's Film Festival. It was nominated for Animation Of The Year at the Japan Academy Prizes and was released in Japanese cinemas in December of 2022.
Hara reteamed with several past collaborators on the project. They include screenwriter Miho Maruo (Miss Hokusai, The Wonderland) composer Harumi Fuuki (Miss Hokusai, The Wonderland) and acclaimed artist Ilya Kuvshinov on visual concept and castle designs.
GKIDS previously released Hara's past films Summer Days With Coo and Miss Hokusai. They will release Lonley Castle In The Mirror theatrically in North America in both original language and English dubbed versions. The film will be released this summer.
The film follows shy teen Kokoro who discovers a portal in her bedroom mirror. Travelling through, she finds herself transported to an enchanting castle where she meets six other students. When a girl in a wolf mask explains they have been invited to play a game they must work together to discover the mysterious connection that unites them. However, anyone who breaks the rules will be eaten by a wolf,
"We are thrilled to be able to work again with director Keiichi Hara" said GKIDS President David Jesteadt. "His latest film is a deeply emotional story about the private struggles we all go through, and the small yet joyous connections with others that make life worth living. I can’t wait for North American audiences to join us on a trip to the Lonely Castle in the Mirror."
