Studio 4°C's Highly Anticipated 'ChaO' Anime Film Lands Global Release in 16 Countries

Anticipation is soaring as Studio 4°C's latest cinematic masterpiece, ChaO, gears up for a monumental international debut. Helmed by the visionary director Yasuhiro Aoki, this captivating anime film is poised to enchant audiences worldwide, blending the charm of romantic comedy with the allure of fantasy against a stunning futuristic backdrop where humanity and mermaidkind coexist. Set for its grand premiere in Japanese theaters on August 15, 2025, ChaO promises a narrative as unique as its premise.

A Tale of Unconventional Romance

At the heart of this extraordinary tale is Stephan, a diligent yet unassuming salaryman whose predictable life at a shipbuilding company is spectacularly upended. His world takes an unexpected turn when he receives an earnest marriage proposal from Chao, a pure-hearted princess from the underwater realm. The film beautifully chronicles Stephan's profound emotional journey, as Chao's unwavering sincerity and boundless affection gradually dissolve his reservations, blossoming into a truly unconventional yet deeply moving romance.

Stellar Cast and Production Excellence

The stellar voice cast brings these characters to life with remarkable depth: Ōji Suzuka lends his voice to Stephan, while Anna Yamada embodies the spirited Chao. They are supported by an equally talented ensemble including Yūichirō Umehara, Ryota Yamasato, and Kavka Shishido.

Beyond its compelling story, ChaO boasts exquisite production values. Hirokazu Kojima's distinctive character designs breathe life into the vibrant world, complemented by Takatsugu Muramatsu's evocative musical score. Adding another layer of magic, Koda Kumi's powerful theme song, “ChaO!”, is set to resonate with viewers long after the credits roll.

Global Reach and Festival Showings

Domestically distributed by Toei Company, the film's global reach is facilitated by GKIDS, which holds the international licensing rights, including for North America. This strategic partnership ensures ChaO will reach at least 16 countries, with confirmed screenings at prestigious events such as Spain's Sitges International Fantastic Film Festival and the Ottawa International Animation Festival in Canada. This extensive global release strategy not only highlights Studio 4°C's burgeoning international acclaim but also underscores ChaO's immense potential to captivate a diverse global audience with its distinctive fusion of heartfelt romance and boundless imagination.