HBO Max Unveils Expansive GKIDS Anime Slate, Featuring 4K Debuts for Makoto Shinkai's 'Your Name' and More

A Monumental Expansion for Anime Fans

In a significant development for anime enthusiasts across the United States, HBO Max has announced a substantial expansion of its exclusive partnership with the esteemed distributor GKIDS. This renewed collaboration is set to bring an impressive catalog of nearly 20 celebrated anime films to the streaming platform. Many of these titles will arrive in stunning 4K resolution, firmly establishing HBO Max as a premier destination for world-class Japanese animation.

Spotlight on Visionary Directors and 4K Debuts

The expanded lineup features an array of cinematic treasures from visionary directors, including the legendary Makoto Shinkai and the highly respected Naoko Yamada. Among the most anticipated additions is Shinkai's global phenomenon, Your Name, which is poised for its groundbreaking 4K streaming debut on September 1, 2025. Fans can also revisit other Shinkai masterpieces like the emotionally resonant Children Who Chase Lost Voices and the poignant The Place Promised in Our Early Days, all renowned for their signature blend of fantasy and romantic drama.

North American Streaming Premieres

This extensive acquisition also marks the North American streaming premieres for several critically acclaimed titles. Viewers will finally have access to Ayumu Watanabe's charming Fortune Favors Lady Nikuko and Keiichi Hara's intricate Lonely Castle in the Mirror, alongside Naoko Yamada's exquisite Liz and the Blue Bird, celebrated for its deep emotional narratives and profound exploration of coming-of-age themes.

Diverse Genres and Broader Access

Adding further depth and diversity to the collection, the deal encompasses a wide spectrum of genres. From the intense sci-fi post-apocalyptic thrills of Shin Godzilla to the intriguing psychological depths of Hideaki Anno's Love & Pop, there is something for every discerning viewer. Furthermore, titles such as the visually striking Ghost Cat Anzu and the vibrant The Colors Within will make their inaugural appearances on major U.S. streaming platforms, significantly broadening access to both critically acclaimed adult animation and captivating live-action Japanese cinema. This comprehensive slate unequivocally underscores HBO Max's unwavering commitment to delivering the pinnacle of Japanese anime and original adult animation to a wider American audience, fostering a greater appreciation for the medium's rich cultural tapestry and its boundless storytelling artistry.